Bluntschli in "Arms and the Man"

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Bluntschli is an important character in George Bernard Shaw’s play "Arms and the Man." He is a Swiss soldier fighting in the Serbian army. He is different from traditional war heroes. He is practical, intelligent, and does not believe in the glory of war. Shaw uses his character to show that war is not as noble as people think.

Bluntschli sees war as a job. He does not fight for honor or bravery. He fights to earn money and to survive. He believes that staying alive is more important than acting like a hero. When he first appears in the play, he is running away from battle. He hides in Raina Petkoff’s room to save himself. Instead of carrying bullets, he carries chocolates. This makes Raina call him "the chocolate cream soldier."

Bluntschli is smart and quick-thinking. He stays calm in difficult situations. He knows how to deal with people using logic and humor. He does not believe in dramatic heroism. He speaks the truth and does not pretend to be someone he is not. He believes that war is full of mistakes and foolish actions, not bravery.

Bluntschli is very different from Sergius Saranoff, who believes in romantic heroism. Sergius is proud and dramatic, but he does not understand the real nature of war. Bluntschli, on the other hand, is practical and knows that survival is more important than false pride. Shaw uses this difference to show that war is not as glorious as people imagine.

Bluntschli is also kind and respectful. Even though he is realistic, he is not rude or selfish. He treats Raina with politeness and honesty. He values intelligence and hard work more than high status or empty pride. In the end, he proves to be the best match for Raina because he is mature, dependable, and honest.

Bluntschli’s character is important because he represents Shaw’s ideas about war and society. Shaw wanted to show that war is not about honor but about strategy and survival. He used Bluntschli to break the traditional image of a war hero. Instead of being brave and dramatic, Bluntschli is calm, smart, and realistic.

Bluntschli is one of the most memorable characters in "Arms and the Man." His humor, honesty, and practicality make him unique. He challenges traditional ideas and presents a more realistic view of war and life. His character is admired for his wisdom and intelligence.


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