Major Barbara Study Guide

Act 1 begins in the library of a well-appointed house in London. Lady Britomart Undershaft, a well-dressed society woman in her fifties is awaiting the arrival of her son, Stephen. Lady Britomart awaits Stephen's arrival so she may discuss with him his future as the head of the Undershaft family. Stephen has recently turned 24, and Lady Britomart wishes him to undertake more responsibilities as the only man in a family of three women. We soon learn that there is a Mr. Undershaft, but that he does not live with the family, as the husband and wife are separated. Stephen's discomfort at the mention of Undershaft's name is evident, but Lady Britomart claims that she can no longer withstand the strain of managing the family alone, due to the added strain of the marriage of her two daughters. (read more)