Is humanity evolving toward a superman through the power of women?

Entertainment · Published 9 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In his 1903 drama, George Bernard Shaw uses the legend of Don Juan to explore a provocative cosmic philosophy. He suggests that mankind is evolving via natural selection toward a 'superman' status, but with a twist: it is women, not men, who act as the primary drivers of this evolution.

Written by George Bernard Shaw and premiered at London's Court Theatre on 21 May 1905, Man and Superman is described by the author as 'a comedy and a philosophy.' The play serves as a vehicle for Shaw's views on evolution and social dynamics, specifically utilizing the Don Juan myth to illustrate Friedrich Nietzsche's concept of the 'Übermensch.' While Shaw draws on Nietzsche's ideas of humanity evolving toward a superior state, he distances himself from the philosopher by placing him at the end of a long list of influences.

The narrative centers on John 'Jack' Tanner, a revolutionary and confirmed bachelor who is pursued by the enigmatic Ann Whitefield. In a significant reversal of traditional myths, Shaw positions the woman as the predator; as Shaw noted, 'Don Juan is the quarry instead of the huntsman.' This reversal is reflected in the character of Ann, who represents the 'Life Force'—the driving impulse that compels men to marry and ensures the continuation of the species.

The play is famous for its complex structure, often featuring a controversial third act titled 'Don Juan in Hell.' This sequence involves a philosophical debate between Don Juan and the Devil, and is frequently omitted from standard productions. While many see the work as a light comedy of manners, Shaw intended it as a deeper 'propaganda' for his own views on life, even publishing his 'Revolutionist's Handbook and Pocket Companion' as an appendix to the text.

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