Arms And the Man

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What is Raina's View On killing the fugitives?

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What is Raina's view on killing the fugitives?

In George Bernard Shaw's (1856-1950) play "Arms and the Man," published in 1894, Raina Petkoff is one of the main characters. Raina’s views on killing the fugitives reflect the satirical and anti-romantic themes of the play. Gradually, Raina's views on killing and war evolve, and she becomes more grounded in reality.

At the beginning of the play, Raina expresses admiration for her fiance,é Sergius Saranoff's heroic exploits on the battlefield. She thinks soldiers are not afraid to die on a battlefield, especially her fiance, Sergius.

Some soldiers, I know, are afraid of death.” - Raina, Act 1, Section 1

Here, Raina tries to make a comparison between her hero, Sergius, and other soldiers. However, as the story unfolds and Raina encounters Captain Bluntschli, a Swiss mercenary who seeks refuge in her bedroom, her romantic ideals are challenged.

>What glory is there in killing wretched fugitives?” - Raina, Act 1, Section 1

Raina's view on killing the fugitives becomes more pragmatic and less romantic as she interacts with Bluntschli. Her feelings about killings are conflicted between what she knows and what she wants. Bluntschli exposes the absurdity of war and the romanticized notions associated with it. Unlike Sergius, who is portrayed as a traditional romantic hero, Bluntschli is a realist who sees war as a business and survival as the top priority. 

Raina's transformation throughout the play highlights Shaw's critique of romanticism and war. By the end of the play, Raina's views on killing and war have evolved, and she becomes more grounded in reality.

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George Bernard Shaw
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