Model Question Paper 1 English Literature Literary Texts: ARMS AND THE MAN by George Barnard Shaw

Difficulty Level: Graduation        Time: 1hr 30 Mnt

Each Question: Word Limit: 30

ARMS AND THE MAN by     George Barnard Shaw Short Questions - Answers

What is the significance of the title, ‘Arms and The Man’?

Answer: The title "Arms and The Man" symbolizes the contrasting themes explored in the play. "Arms" represents the romanticized ideals of war and heroism, while "The Man" refers to the practical and realistic portrayal of soldiers as flawed individuals.

'The Man is not a conventional stage soldier' - why?

Answer: The character of Captain Bluntschli, referred to as "The Man," is not a conventional stage soldier because he defies the traditional stereotypes of heroic and fearless warriors. Bluntschli is pragmatic, focused on survival, and possesses a deep understanding of the realities of war.

Is the setting of 'Arms and The Man' Ruritanian?

Answer: No, the setting of "Arms and The Man" is not Ruritanian. The play is set in a fictitious town in Bulgaria during the Serbo-Bulgarian War of 1885.

What is the 'romantic view of war'?

Answer: The 'romantic view of war' refers to the idealized and glorified perception of war as noble, heroic, and full of honor. It is a perspective that emphasizes bravery, chivalry, and the pursuit of noble ideals in the context of armed conflict.

What lesson did Sergius learn from the realities of war?

Answer: Sergius, a character in the play, learns that the realities of war are far different from the romanticized notions he held. He realizes that courage and bravery alone do not guarantee victory or make one a hero. He discovers the importance of practical strategies, adaptability, and critical thinking on the battlefield.

What is a Turkish ottoman?

Answer: A Turkish ottoman refers to a low, upholstered seat or footstool commonly used in Turkey and other Middle Eastern cultures. It is typically cushioned and often decorated with intricate designs.

Write a note on 'Byron' (Act-I).

Answer: In Act I, Raina mentions 'Byron' in reference to the poet Lord Byron. Byron was a prominent figure in Romantic literature, known for his passionate and adventurous persona. Raina's mention of Byron reflects her romanticized view of love, heroism, and idealized notions of masculinity.

Write a note on Pushkin (Act-I).

Answer: In Act I, Raina mentions 'Pushkin' in reference to the Russian poet Alexander Pushkin. Pushkin is considered one of the greatest Russian poets and a significant figure in Russian literature. Raina's reference to Pushkin reflects her appreciation for romantic and poetic ideals.

What do you understand by 'Don Quixote at the windmills'?

Answer: 'Don Quixote at the windmills' refers to a famous episode in the novel "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes. Don Quixote, a chivalrous and idealistic character, mistakes windmills for giants and charges at them in a misguided attempt at heroism. The phrase is often used to describe someone engaging in futile or misguided endeavors.

What is Ernani?

Answer: 'Ernani' is an opera by Giuseppe Verdi. In the play, Raina mentions 'Ernani' in the context of romantic and passionate love. The opera tells the story of a bandit, Ernani, and his love for a noblewoman, Elvira, amidst political and emotional turmoil.

Why did Raina mention 'Ernani' to a man?

Answer: Raina mentions 'Ernani' to Captain Bluntschli as a way to evoke romantic and passionate sentiments. She uses the reference to gauge Bluntschli's response and to engage in a flirtatious conversation, exploring their shared appreciation for romantic ideals.

What is Byronism?

Answer: Byronism refers to the literary and cultural movement influenced by the works and persona of Lord Byron. It emphasizes individualism, emotional intensity, and a rebellious spirit against societal norms. Byronism celebrates the pursuit of personal passions and ideals, often associated with a romantic and poetic sensibility.

Who is Childe Harold?

Answer: Childe Harold is the protagonist of Lord Byron's narrative poem, "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage." He is a melancholic and disillusioned young nobleman who embarks on a journey across Europe to find solace and meaning in life. Childe Harold represents a brooding and introspective character, reflecting Byron's own thoughts and emotions.

Write a note on the 'Cossacks'.

Answer: The 'Cossacks' were a group of predominantly East Slavic-speaking people who inhabited the region known as Cossack Hetmanate, which encompassed parts of modern-day Ukraine and Russia. They were known for their military skills, independence, and semi-nomadic way of life. In the context of the play, the mention of Cossacks represents the romanticized notion of brave and fierce warriors.

What do you mean by 'the seamy side of life'?

Answer: 'The seamy side of life' refers to the darker, less idealized aspects of human existence. It represents the hidden flaws, struggles, and immoralities that exist beneath the surface of society. It contrasts with the romanticized view of life, exposing the harsh realities and imperfections that are often overlooked.

"I have gone through the war like a knight in a tournament" – Who said this and to whom? Where does this conversation occur?

Answer: Sergius says this to Raina during a conversation that takes place in Act II. Sergius compares his experiences in war to those of a chivalrous knight engaging in a tournament, suggesting his idealistic and heroic perspective on his military actions.

What does 'Knight in a tournament' mean?

Answer: 'Knight in a tournament' refers to the image of a medieval knight participating in a formal combat competition. It symbolizes bravery, honor, and adherence to a code of chivalry. Sergius's comparison implies that he sees his involvement in the war as a noble and valiant endeavor.

'She never cared two straws about me' – Who said this and to whom? Where does this expression occur?

Answer: Sergius says this to Raina during a conversation in Act II. Sergius expresses his realization that Raina never truly cared deeply for him and that her feelings were superficial. The expression occurs as Sergius confronts the truth about their relationship.

"Of all the fools ever let loose on a field of battle, that man must be the very maddest" - Who made this remark and to whom? About whom was the remark made? Where does this expression occur?

Answer: Major Petkoff made this remark to Raina about Captain Bluntschli in Act II. The remark criticizes Bluntschli's unconventional tactics and practical approach to war, suggesting that he is the most foolish among all the soldiers on the battlefield.

Write a very short note on the character of Raina as you find it in Act I of the play 'Arms and The Man'.

Answer: In Act I, Raina emerges as a young woman deeply influenced by romantic ideals. She embodies the image of a romantic heroine, with her passionate nature and idealized perception of love and heroism. Raina is initially infatuated with Sergius, perceiving him as a heroic figure. However, as the act progresses, subtle hints of her practicality and underlying complexity begin to surface, setting the stage for her character development throughout the play.

   Ardhendu De