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The Plays of J. A. Barrie: What Every Woman Knows: A Comedy
Hardcover
ISBN13: 9781025370422
Publisher: Tradd Street Press
Published: Feb 14 2026
Pages: 166
Weight: 0.91
Height: 0.44 Width: 6.14 Depth: 9.21
Language: English
What Every Woman Knows is a charming and insightful four-act comedy by J. A. Barrie that explores the subtle power dynamics of marriage and political success in early 20th-century Britain. The play follows the story of Maggie Wylie, a plain but incredibly clever Scottish woman, and John Shand, an ambitious but humorless young man who breaks into the Wylie household to study their books. In a unique bargain, the Wylie family agrees to fund John's education on the condition that he marries Maggie after five years.
As John rises through the ranks of British politics, he remains blissfully unaware that his success is largely due to Maggie's invisible influence and strategic wit. Barrie masterfully blends humor with a poignant examination of gender roles, suggesting that behind every successful man is a woman whose intelligence and resilience often go uncredited. The play's sharp dialogue and endearing characterizations make it a timeless piece of Edwardian drama.
This work remains a significant contribution to the history of British theater, offering a sophisticated look at ambition, loyalty, and the quiet strength found in domestic partnerships. It captures the essence of Scottish identity and the shifting social landscape of the era, securing its place as a classic of the comedic genre.
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