The Madras House: A Comedy, in Four Acts

By: Barker, Harley Granville

"The Madras House" is a sophisticated four-act comedy by the influential playwright and director Harley Granville Barker. Set in the waning years of the Edwardian era, the play offers a sharp-witted and intellectual exploration of the shifting social and economic landscape of the early 20th century. The narrative centers on the Huxtable family and their connection to the eponymous high-fashion department store, using this commercial setting to dissect the rigid values of the burgeoning middle class.

Through a series of incisive dialogues and character studies, Barker examines the restrictive roles imposed upon women-ranging from the sheltered, aimless lives of the six unmarried Huxtable daughters to the commercial exploitation of fashion models. The play delves into complex themes of marriage, feminism, and the dehumanizing effects of industrial commercialism. As the characters navigate business negotiations and personal crises, "The Madras House" exposes the contradictions and hypocrisies of a society in transition.

Renowned for its realistic dialogue and profound social commentary, this work remains a cornerstone of British modern drama. It provides a fascinating window into the historical discourse surrounding gender and commerce, making it an essential read for enthusiasts of classic theater and Edwardian literature.

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• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025351592
• ISBN13: 9781025351599
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 152 Pages
• Weight: 0.86 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.1" x 9.2"