Themes: Idealism versus Realism
Arms and the Man illustrates the conflict between idealism and realism. The romantic ideal of war as a glorious opportunity for a man to display courage and honor is dispelled when Sergius admits that his heroic cavalry charge that won the battle was the wrong thing to do. His notable action does not get him his promotion and Sergius learns that “Soldiering, my dear madam, is the coward’s art of attacking mercilessly when you are strong, and keeping out of harm’s way when you are weak.”
Sergius and Raina must face the fact that their ideals about love are false. Fortunately, both of them are actually released by this knowledge to pursue their true loves. But first, Sergius goes through a period of despair in which he questions whether life is futile if the ideals by which he has set his standards of conduct fail to hold up when exposed to reality. This question is an underlying current throughout the play. Shaw gives a happy resolution, but it is a serious question that most people must face in life.
Much is made of Bluntschli’s realism—i.e., keeping chocolates instead of ammunition in his cartridge belt, showing contempt for sentimentality, and reacting in a practical manner to his father’s death. However, Nicola is the consummate realist in the play. Nicola’s message is: adapt, exploit, survive. Bluntschli proves to have a romantic side, after all, and thus is the most balanced character in the play in that he seems to know when to temper his romanticism with realism and when to stick to his ideals.
Expert Q&A
How realistic is Arms and the Man, and what aspects are "unrealistic"?
"Arms and the Man" is not realistic in the traditional sense, as it uses a charming and improbable romance plot to critique unrealistic ideas about love and war. Shaw portrays potentially threatening situations, such as a soldier hiding in a young woman's room, in a lighthearted manner. The play critiques false ideals but avoids depicting the harsh realities of war and social class barriers, using comedy to deliver its message effectively.
How do the descriptions of Raina's room and its objects relate to the play's themes?
The descriptions of Raina's room and its objects highlight the play's themes of romanticism, naivety, and pretentiousness. The remote, fairy-tale setting and the mix of Eastern exoticism with cheap Western imitations illustrate the characters' disconnect from contemporary European culture. Raina's novels and Sergius's portrait further emphasize the romanticized, unrealistic view of heroism and war, contrasting with Shaw's critique of such notions.
How does George Bernard Shaw voice his opinions through characters in Arms and the Man?
George Bernard Shaw uses characters in Arms and the Man to voice his opinions on class pretentiousness and the futility of war. Through the interactions of a wealthy Bulgarian family and their servants, Shaw satirizes societal elitism and critiques war's senselessness. Characters like Raina, Sergius, and Bluntschli embody various perspectives on class dynamics, while the play's plot highlights the absurdity of class distinctions and the wastefulness of war, showcasing Shaw's signature satirical style.
Significance of the Title "Arms and the Man" by G.B. Shaw
The title "Arms and the Man" by George Bernard Shaw is an ironic reference to Virgil's Aeneid, which glorifies the heroism of Aeneas. Shaw's play, however, satirizes the romanticized view of war and heroism. Through characters like the pragmatic Bluntschli and the incompetent Sergius, Shaw critiques the notions of war as noble and love as conquest. The play contrasts epic heroism with the mundane reality of war, emphasizing practicality over romantic illusions.
Are the following lines from George Bernard Shaw's Arms and the Man idealistic or realistic?
"Ugh! But I don't believe the first man is a coward. I know he is a hero!"
"And don't be so ready to defy everybody. Act as if you expected to have your own way, not as if you expected to be ordered about. The way to get on as a lady is the same as the way to get on as a servant: you've got to know your place; that's the secret of it."
The first line reflects idealism, as Raina romantically and naively views Sergius as a hero, influenced by a glorified notion of war. Her sheltered life contributes to her idealistic perspective. The second line is realistic, spoken by Nicola, who advises Louka to accept rigid social structures. Nicola's advice reflects a pragmatic, albeit outdated, view of societal roles, contrasting with Louka's idealistic belief in upward mobility. Thus, Raina's view is idealistic, while Nicola's is realistic.
Why does Raina refer to herself as a "prosaic little coward" in Arms and the Man?
Raina refers to herself as a "prosaic little coward" because she doubts her fiancé Sergius's ability to live up to the romantic ideals from literature and opera. In her self-deprecation, she acknowledges her fear and lack of faith in Sergius's heroism, which conflicts with her romanticized expectations. This self-awareness contrasts with her belief that women should have unwavering faith in their men, as dictated by the heroic narratives she admires.
Comparison of Sergius to Don Quixote in Arms and the Man
Sergius in Arms and the Man is comparable to Don Quixote as both characters are idealistic and romanticize warfare. Sergius envisions himself as a chivalrous hero, much like Don Quixote, who sees himself as a knight. Both are out of touch with reality, leading to misguided actions and eventual disillusionment.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
