Major Barbara Summary

In the grand library of an aristocratic lady's house one winter evening in 1906, her son, Stephen, is told to assume family responsibilities as an adult. The lady is concerned about her daughter Barbara, an influential household member who now serves in the Salvation Army, and her romantic relationship with a passionate Greek scholar named Adolphus Cusins. Finally, it's decided that they must address the issue of Stephen's estranged father, Andrew Undershaft - a prominent war industrialist. Andrew had previously disowned Stephen, preferring to choose an orphan as his successor, which led to his divorce. Andrew is invited over now to discuss financial matters. When Andrew misunderstands who his son is, the conversation switches to Barbara's service in the Salvation Army. He parallels his company's ethos to the Army's motto: Blood and Fire. The father and daughter then agree to visit each other's workplaces to convince each other of their respective ideologies.

The scene changes to the West Ham Salvation Army shelter on a cold morning, where Barbara's zealous work for the Army is observed by Andrew. Barbara is seen trying to save the soul of a violent young man named Bill. She dissuades him from taking back his girlfriend who had recently converted. Andrew uses this opportunity to discuss his beliefs with Cusins, presenting money and gunpowder as key to salvation. He then expresses his intention to win Barbara over to his cause. Later, Barbara is disheartened when a large donation is accepted from Andrew to the Salvation Army, and he successfully demonstrates his influence over the Army.

On the following day, Barbara has discarded her Army uniform and the family is preparing to visit Andrew's cannon factory. When the topic of Stephen's inheritance arises again, Andrew maintains that the legacy needs to be passed on to a strong man without family connections or education. Barbara, Cusins, and the family then explore the perfect town of Perivale St. Andrews, where Andrew's factory is located. The climax is reached when Cusins reveals his secret illegitimate birth and agrees to Andrew's conditions to embrace his faith. Barbara confesses that her father's actions have made her rethink her religious beliefs. Andrew persuades her to abandon outdated moralities and religion that do not align with reality. He argues that material comforts are what truly save people from the 'crime of poverty', not religious preaching. Barbara and Cusins promise to dedicate their lives to this newfound understanding of power and reality, leading Barbara to return to the Army with a rejuvenated spirit. The story ends on a joyous note with Barbara running off to find her mother.