Fathers and Daughters

Though Shakespeare and Shaw lived 300 years apart, they used similar techniques to dramatize the interactions of fathers and daughters. The daughters literally represent a challenge to patriarchy and metaphorically extend that challenge to such institutions as church and state. By exploring social issues through the relationships of fathers and daughters, Shakespeare and Shaw were able to avoid the watchful eyes of censors and comment on such topics as the divine right of kings, filial bonds of obedience, and even regicide.