Three gods come to a poor village in China in search of a “good person” and find one in Shen Te, a prostitute. They give her money which allows her to buy a store and she liberally gives to the needy although this threatens her existence as they take advantage of her. Conditions worsen until she disguises herself as her cousin and begins to operate the business shrewdly and profitably. Exploring morality within a capitalistic society, Brecht raises the question:

“ Ponder my friends, how man with man may live in amity

And good men-- and women also—reach good ends.”

“If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” Mark 4:9