Publisher's Synopsis
The Devil's Disciple is a play written by George Bernard Shaw. The story is set during the American Revolution and follows the lives of two men, Richard Dudgeon and Anthony Anderson. Richard is a self-proclaimed devil's disciple and a notorious troublemaker in his small New Hampshire town, while Anthony is a kind-hearted minister who is loved by all. When the British army arrives in town, they mistake Richard for the local minister and take him prisoner. Richard sees an opportunity to play a trick on the British and decides to impersonate the minister to save his own skin. However, things take a dramatic turn when the British commander, General Burgoyne, arrives and decides to execute the minister as an example to the rebels. Richard, who has grown fond of Anthony, decides to take his place and is hanged in his stead. The play explores themes of morality, loyalty, and the nature of heroism. It is a witty and thought-provoking work that showcases Shaw's unique style of writing.RICHARD (seriously). Because it's true. I was brought up in the other service; but I knew from the first that the Devil was my natural master and captain and friend. I saw that he was in the right, and that the world cringed to his conqueror only through fear. I prayed secretly to him; and he comforted me, and saved me from having my spirit broken in this house of children's tears.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
