Widowers' Houses by George Bernard Shaw is a thought-provoking play that takes a critical look at the ethics of society and the impact of money on individuals. The story follows a young doctor, Harry Trench, who is in love with the daughter of a wealthy slum landlord. As he uncovers the unethical practices of her father's business, Trench is faced with difficult decisions about his own morality and integrity.

Shaw's writing is sharp and witty, with clever dialogue that highlights the hypocrisy and greed of the characters. The play raises important questions about the source of wealth and the responsibility that comes with it. The characters are well-developed and complex, making the audience question their motives and actions.

Overall, Widowers' Houses is a compelling read that challenges societal norms and sparks important conversations about wealth, power, and morality. Shaw's satirical take on the upper class is still relevant today, making this play a timeless classic.

Book Description:
This is one of three plays Shaw published as Plays Unpleasant in 1898; they were termed "unpleasant" because they were intended, not to entertain their audiences—as traditional Victorian theatre was expected to—but to raise awareness of social problems and to censure exploitation of the laboring class by the unproductive rich. In this play, Dr. Harry Trench becomes disillusioned when he discovers how his fiancee's father, Mr. Sartorius, makes his money. However, it is soon revealed that Trench's own income is far from untainted.