Arms and the Man Lesson Plan

What lesson does “How to Write a Popular Play” impart?

One thing is for sure: it's not instructions for how to write a popular play! Note the difference between “popular” and “great,” as a distinction Shaw is making. "How to Write a Popular Play" explains what G.B. Shaw thinks makes a “great” playwright. The piece is largely devoted to ideals and effects rather than craft - how does the play make the audience feel? Does it make them think critically about themselves and the world they live in? Does it challenge their beliefs or expectations?

Based on “How to Write a Popular Play” and “Arms and the Man,” consider Shaw’s characterization of the relationship between art...