This controversial drama is set in late nineteenth-century Victorian England. George Bernard Shaw advances his advocacy of greater social independence and equality of educational and work opportunities for women. Shaw uses the play to draw attention to the fact that prostitution was not a sexual choice; rather, it was a necessity for some poor women who were not allowed legitimate opportunities in the business world. Shaw illustrates the irony of women finding dignity and independence in a profession that also robbed them of dignity. He also shows that through this demeaning profession, Mrs. Warren was able to provide a better future for her daughter.