Model Question Paper 2 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

 1. What do you know of Catherine Petkoff from the first Act of ‘Arms and The Man’?

In the first Act of 'Arms and The Man,' Catherine Petkoff is portrayed as an affluent and proud woman. She is Raina's mother and Major Petkoff's wife. She is concerned about her social status and displays a sense of vanity and self-importance.

2. Comment on the title of the play ‘Arms and The Man’.

The title of the play, 'Arms and The Man,' suggests a juxtaposition between romance and war. It symbolizes the contrasting ideals of heroism and love, as represented by the characters. The play explores the romanticized notions of war and challenges them through satire.

3. Critical comment on the title?

From a critical perspective, the title 'Arms and The Man' emphasizes the central themes of the play, highlighting the stark contrast between idealistic romanticism and the realities of war. It invites the audience to question societal conventions and examine the absurdity of war.

4. Is ‘Arms and The Man’ a ‘drama of ideas’? 

Yes, 'Arms and The Man' can be considered a 'drama of ideas.' The play engages with social and political themes, such as the futility of war, romantic idealism versus reality, and class dynamics. Through sharp wit and satire, George Bernard Shaw conveys his philosophical and intellectual viewpoints.

5. What does Raina do with the portrait of Sergius in her bedroom?

Raina hides the portrait of Sergius in her bedroom after she becomes infatuated with the pragmatic and straightforward Bluntschli. This action symbolizes her shifting affections and her desire to distance herself from the illusions of romantic heroism.

6. When does Bluntschli say, ‘a narrow shame, but a miss as good as a mite”- Why does he say so?

Bluntschli says, "a narrow shame, but a miss as good as a mile" when he narrowly avoids getting shot by Raina. He says this to downplay the potential embarrassment of being shot, suggesting that avoiding harm altogether is more valuable than narrowly escaping it.

7. Why does Bluntschli speak about Sergius ads a ‘Don Quixote at a windmill’?

Bluntschli refers to Sergius as a 'Don Quixote at a windmill' to highlight Sergius's idealistic and impractical nature. It implies that Sergius is engaged in a futile pursuit of chivalry and honor, similar to Don Quixote's misguided adventures.

8. Why do young solders carry pistols and cartridge and the old ones ‘grub’? Is there any military significance in it?

The young soldiers carry pistols and cartridges to demonstrate their enthusiasm and eagerness for battle. It symbolizes their romanticized view of war and their desire to prove their courage. On the other hand, the older soldiers, represented by Bluntschli, prioritize practicality and survival, hence the reference to 'grub' or food.

9. How does Raina soave Bluntschli?

Raina soothes Bluntschli by hiding him in her bedroom and promising to protect him from being discovered by the soldiers. She provides him with food, drink, and shelter, ensuring his safety while he is hiding.

10. How does Raina introduce the Petkoff to Bluntschli?

Raina introduces the Petkoffs to Bluntschli as a professional soldier who fought for the Serbian army. She presents him as a heroic figure, enhancing his status and romanticizing his role in the war.

11. What was the effect of Sergius is wining the battle the wrong way?

Sergius winning the battle the wrong way creates an ironic effect. It exposes the disconnect between the idealized notions of heroism and the actual realities of war. Sergius's victory through an accidental cavalry charge instead of tactical brilliance challenges the glorification of war and questions the concept of heroic deeds.

12. What is Sergius is opinion about Soldiering and the secret of successful fighting?

Sergius expresses his opinion that soldiering is a mixture of bluffing, courage, and luck. He believes that the secret to successful fighting lies in appearing fearless and confident, regardless of the actual situation.

13. Who is Swiss officer and how had he ‘humbugged’ Major Petkoff and major Sergius?

The Swiss officer is Bluntschli, who pretended to be a Swiss officer when he sought refuge in Major Petkoff's house. He 'humbugged' both Major Petkoff and Major Sergius by successfully deceiving them about his true identity and nationality.

14. How did Sergius narrate the story of the escape of the Swiss officer?

Sergius narrates the story of the Swiss officer's escape by describing how the officer outsmarted the pursuing soldiers through clever tactics and quick thinking. The story showcases the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the Swiss officer, leaving a lasting impression on Sergius.

15. What was the effect of Sergius is narration of the fugitive on Raina and Catherine?

Sergius's narration of the fugitive's story has a profound effect on Raina and Catherine. It challenges their preconceived notions of heroism and romanticism. They begin to question the idealized image of soldiers and realize the stark contrast between the romanticized ideals and the harsh reality of war.

16. How does Raina define ‘higher love’?

Raina defines 'higher love' as an idealistic and romantic concept that surpasses ordinary love. She believes it is a love that involves admiration, heroism, and the pursuit of noble ideals. Raina's perception of 'higher love' is initially shaped by her infatuation with Sergius.

17. How does Sergius reciprocate ‘higher lover’?

Sergius reciprocates 'higher love' by engaging in grand romantic gestures and displays of chivalry. He sees himself as a noble and heroic figure, striving to fulfill Raina's expectations of a romantic hero. Sergius embodies the ideals of 'higher love' in his actions and demeanor.

18. When does Sergius see higher love as stinging? How does he propose to have some relief?

Sergius sees 'higher love' as stinging when it fails to live up to its idealized expectations. He feels burdened by the weight of Raina's romanticized vision of him and the pressure to constantly maintain that image. To find relief, he suggests indulging in more practical and physical pleasures, seeking solace in earthly desires.

19. To whom, when and why Sergius say, ‘witty as well as pretty’?

Sergius says, "witty as well as pretty" to Raina, praising her for not only being beautiful but also possessing intelligence and wit. He compliments her on her sharpness and quick thinking, appreciating her intellectual capabilities along with her physical attractiveness.

20. ‘Welcome our friend the enemy!
Who says this and to whom is it spoken? What is the occasion of the speech? What is the meaning of this speech?

The line "Welcome our friend the enemy!" is spoken by Bluntschli to Raina. It is said when he reveals his true identity as an enemy soldier, a Serbian enemy soldier. The occasion of this speech is the moment of truth and confession between Bluntschli and Raina, where he confesses that he is not a Swiss officer as he pretended to be. The speech carries the meaning of acceptance and reconciliation, breaking down the barriers of enemy lines and embracing humanity beyond the constraints of war.

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