Arms And the Man : Quotations

Quotations

“All of them, dear lady, all of them, believe me. It is our duty to live as long as we can.” (Bluntschli, Act 1)

Bluntschli’s Pragmatism: Bluntschli’s dialogue about soldiers being born fools highlights his pragmatic view of warfare. He believes that survival is paramount. It criticizes the romanticized notions of heroism. This sets up the contrast between his practicality and Sergius’ idealism.

“Oh you are a very poor soldier—a chocolate cream soldier! Come, cheer up.” (Raina, Act 1)

Raina’s Sarcastic Comfort: Raina’s “chocolate cream soldier” comment is a sarcastic attempt to comfort Bluntschli. It reflects her initial admiration for Sergius’ heroic image. This showcases her wit and reveals her romanticized perception of soldiers.

“Nine soldiers out of ten are born fools.” (Bluntschli, Act 1)

Bluntschli’s Realism: Bluntschli’s pea analogy illustrates his practical approach to war. He describes the chaos of battle by emphasizing how soldiers follow one another disorganizedly. This reinforces his view of war as chaotic and far from the idealized notions.

“Soldering, my dear madam, is the coward’s art of attacking mercilessly when you are strong, and keeping out of harm’s way when you are weak.” (Sergius, Act 2)

Sergius’ Cynical View: Sergius’ dialogue about soldering being the “coward’s art” reflects his growing cynicism. He is starting to question the ideals he previously upheld. It suggests that war is not as honorable as it seems and that strategic maneuvering can be considered a form of cowardice.

“I am a brave man. My heart jumped like a woman’s at the first shot; but in the charge I found that I was brave.” (Sergius, Act 3)

Sergius’ Self-Reflection: Sergius’ admission of his initial fear and subsequent courage demonstrates his evolving understanding of bravery. He acknowledges his own vulnerabilities. It indicates a shift away from the inflated heroic image he projected earlier.

“I’m a professional soldier! I fight when I have to and am very glad to get out of it when I haven’t to. You’re only an amateur: you think fighting’s an amusement.” (Captain Bluntschli, Act 3)

Bluntschli’s Professionalism: Bluntschli’s statement about being a professional soldier emphasizes his pragmatic approach to combat. He contrasts himself with Raina’s perception of war as an amusement. It  highlights his experience and professionalism compared to Sergius’ and Raina’s idealism.

“Oh, war! war! The dream of patriots and heroes! A fraud, Bluntschli, a hollow sham, like love.” (Sergius, Act 3)

Sergius’ Disillusionment: Sergius’ lament about war being a “fraud” and a “hollow sham” reflects his complete disillusionment. He now sees war as a deception. It echoes the play’s critique of idealized notions of patriotism and heroism.