Androcles and the Lion: A Dramatic Exploration of transition and Conflict in the American Civil War

By George Bernard Shaw

Book Overview

Abraham Lincoln: A Play by John Drinkwater is a dramatic portrayal of the life and challenges faced by Abraham Lincoln during his presidency, particularly focusing on the period leading up to and during the American Civil War. The play opens in Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois, where he is approached by a delegation offering him the Republican nomination for the presidency. Despite his awareness of the immense challenges, including the looming threat of secession by the Southern states, Lincoln accepts the nomination, driven by his commitment to preserving the Union and his moral opposition to slavery. As the narrative progresses, Lincoln's presidency is marked by the tension between his cabinet members and the pressures from both the North and South. The play highlights Lincoln's steadfastness and moral clarity, particularly in his dealings with his Secretary of State, William H. Seward, and representatives from the Confederate states. Lincoln's resolve is tested as he navigates the complexities of change during a time of national crisis, emphasizing his dedication to the principles of the Union and the abolition of slavery. The play also delves into Lincoln's personal life, portraying his relationship with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and the domestic challenges they face amidst the political turmoil. Drinkwater's work is a tribute to Lincoln's character, illustrating his humility, wisdom, and the profound loneliness of transformation. Through its exploration of Lincoln's internal and external conflicts, the play offers a poignant reflection on the burdens of change and the enduring struggle for justice and unity.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0CZ6KXS3Q
• ISBN13: 9791041989492
• Release Date: March 2024
• Publisher: Culturea
• Length: 44 Pages
• Weight: 0.21 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 7.4" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

Read the whole book!!!

Do not be tempted to pass over the essay that begins this book. It is a delightfully thought provoking essay that sets up the story of the play. Shaw writes of his views of organized religon with support for his thesis. It is important to read this before diving into the play itself.The play is wonderful, but the theater program must be 200 pages long. You need all the 111 pages before the play to get all of the meanings of the play.

A Pleasant Fable

Androcles and the Lion is an allegorical work which points out that kindness is not necessarity altruistic - it can be of worth. Shaw's writing is brilliant and well worth the reading.

Excellant to show sequencing to learning disabled students

I teach 7th grade learning disabled students world history and I use Androceles and the Lion to teach sequencing skills. After I read the story, I ask the students to number in order in which they occur, several events in the story.

I'm so glad to have found it

I first this read this book in Baltimore, MD at the tender age of 7, 1952. I thought that I would never see this book again in my life time. But fate has it that I'm able to read it again. I've used this book in my lectures and motivational speeches. Because I love the message that it portrays and illustrate to children as it did mine. Thanks for letting me share. I'm 57 yo now.

this book was an enchanting fable...

the story sets a scene of serenity, but later the plot thickens and complications trouble androcles and his lion friend, but old friends remain friends, and it is their friendship that saves them in the end.