Model Question Paper 3 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 Model Questions and Answers

1. Why does Bluntschli say that the Bulgarian officers send for their wives to keep discipline?

Answer: Bluntschli says that the Bulgarian officers send for their wives to keep discipline because the officers fear their wives' disapproval more than anything else. They believe that the presence of their wives will keep them in line and prevent them from engaging in any misconduct or indiscretions.

2. Why did Raina tell the story of ice pudding? What was its effect on the persons who heard it?

Answer: Raina tells the story of ice pudding to impress and entertain the soldiers, particularly Sergius. The story highlights Raina's romantic and imaginative nature, and it enhances her image as a lady of noble qualities. The effect on the persons who heard it is that they find Raina charming and captivating, reinforcing their admiration for her.

3. Why did Sergius challenge Bluntschli to a duel?

Answer: Sergius challenges Bluntschli to a duel because he believes that Bluntschli has insulted him by suggesting that war is not a glorious endeavor. Sergius, being a romantic idealist, takes offense at the pragmatic views expressed by Bluntschli and seeks to defend his honor through a duel.

4. Why did Sergius refuse to fight later?

Answer: Sergius refuses to fight later because he realizes the absurdity and senselessness of dueling over a trivial disagreement. After reflecting on the realities of war and his own ideals, Sergius chooses not to risk his life in a meaningless duel and instead opts for a more practical and reconciliatory approach.

5. Why does Louka say she is not ashamed of eavesdropping?

Answer: Louka says she is not ashamed of eavesdropping because she considers herself an equal to the people she eavesdrops on, particularly Raina. As a servant who aspires for a better social position, Louka sees no shame in gathering information that may be useful to her. She believes in using any means necessary to improve her own situation.

6. What did Raina do with her photograph?

Answer: Raina gives her photograph to Bluntschli as a token of her affection and as a symbol of her romantic attachment to him. She hopes that by giving him her photograph, she can establish a deeper connection with him and solidify their relationship.

7. What part does Raina's photograph play in the drama 'Arms and The Man'?

Answer: Raina's photograph serves as a significant symbol in the play. It represents Raina's idealized romantic notions and her attachment to Sergius at the beginning of the play. However, as the story progresses, the photograph becomes a reminder of Raina's transformation and her growing affection for Bluntschli, reflecting the shifting dynamics of love and war.

8. When and why does Sergius tell Petkoff that the world is not such an innocent place?

Answer: Sergius tells Petkoff that the world is not such an innocent place after his encounter with Louka. He realizes that love and relationships are not as simple and idealistic as he had previously believed. Sergius recognizes the complexities and hidden motives that exist within human interactions, prompting him to acknowledge the less innocent aspects of the world.

9. When and why does Louka say, "That touch makes me your affianced wife"?

Answer: Louka says, "That touch makes me your affianced wife" during a passionate moment with Sergius. She interprets Sergius's touch as a symbol of their commitment to each other, considering it an informal engagement or promise of future marriage. Louka sees this as an opportunity to solidify her social status and secure her desired position.

10. How does Bluntschli explain that he has an incurably romantic disposition?

Answer: Bluntschli explains that he has an incurably romantic disposition by stating that he cannot help but be attracted to romantic ideals and sentimental notions. Despite his pragmatic nature and the realities of war, he admits that deep down, he still yearns for the poetic and idealistic aspects of life, which he considers a part of his innate personality.

11. How did Louka realize that a man was hiding in Raina's bedroom?

Answer: Louka realizes that a man was hiding in Raina's bedroom when she accidentally discovers Bluntschli's presence while trying to retrieve Raina's cloak. She notices the opened window and the signs of someone being there, leading her to uncover Bluntschli's hiding place.

12. How unscientific was Sergius' win at Slivnitza?

Answer: Sergius' win at Slivnitza is described as unscientific because it was more a result of luck and chance rather than strategic military tactics. The victory was attributed to a reckless cavalry charge, which went against conventional military wisdom. Despite the illogical approach, Sergius emerged victorious, highlighting the unpredictability and irrationality of war.

13. Why does Bluntschli say, "We laughed at the other side for months"?

Answer: Bluntschli says, "We laughed at the other side for months" to emphasize the absurdity and irony of war. He reflects on the fact that soldiers on both sides of the conflict often share similar fears, hopes, and experiences. Bluntschli finds it comical that enemies who face each other in battle are essentially the same, yet they remain oblivious to their shared humanity.

14. Why was Sergius not promoted?

Answer: Sergius was not promoted despite his victory at Slivnitza because his superiors recognized the unconventional nature of his success. The authorities deemed his actions as reckless and not in line with standard military strategies. As a result, Sergius was overlooked for promotion, demonstrating that military promotions are not solely based on individual acts of valor.

15. Discuss Act-I as 'the dialogue of a conversation.'

Answer: Act-I in "Arms and the Man" can be described as 'the dialogue of a conversation' because it primarily revolves around the interactions and exchanges between the characters. The act presents conversations filled with wit, humor, and social commentary. The dialogue serves as a medium through which the characters reveal their personalities, beliefs, and conflicts, moving the plot forward.

16. "If you have a drop of Bulgarian blood in your veins, you will worship him when he comes back." - Who says this and to whom? Whom should the listener worship and why?

Answer: Raina says this to Louka, implying that if Louka has any Bulgarian heritage, she should worship Sergius when he returns. Raina expresses her admiration and adoration for Sergius, as he is considered a national hero for his military triumphs. Raina expects everyone, particularly those of Bulgarian descent, to idolize Sergius due to his perceived heroic status.

17. "It proves that all our ideas were real after all." - Who is the speaker? What ideas are spoken about?

Answer: Raina is the speaker of this statement. She refers to the revelation of Bluntschli's practical and realistic perspective on war, which challenges the romanticized ideas she and Sergius held. Raina reflects on how the encounter with Bluntschli forces them to confront the reality that their previous notions of honor, glory, and love were merely idealistic fantasies.

18. "It is no use, dear lady! I can't make you see it from the professional point of view." - Who says this and to whom? What is meant by the professional point of view?

Answer: Captain Bluntschli says this to Raina. By the "professional point of view," Bluntschli refers to his practical perspective as a soldier and his understanding of the realities of war. He implies that Raina, being idealistic and romantic, cannot fully comprehend or appreciate the pragmatic considerations and complexities that soldiers like him face on the battlefield.

19. "Yes, we have one. The only one is Bulgaria." - What does the speaker mean by 'the one in Bulgaria'?

Answer: Sergius is the speaker of this statement. By saying "the one in Bulgaria," he is referring to the idealistic and romantic notion of true love and pure relationships. Sergius suggests that such a love exists only in Bulgaria, implying that it is a rare and precious sentiment that he believes he has found in Raina, thus elevating their relationship above others.

20. "I made defy her. I will defy her. What do I care for her?" - Who will defy whom? To whom is this spoken?

Answer: Louka says this about Raina. She expresses her defiance towards Raina, stating that she will challenge her and stand up against her. Louka no longer cares for Raina's authority or her attempts to control her, and she is determined to assert her independence and challenge Raina's social superiority.

   Ardhendu De