What is Higher Love? Discuss Shaw’s Conception of Higher Love.
Arms And the Man is a notable literary work by George Bernard Shaw. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Arms And the Man.
Answer
What is higher love? Discuss Shaw’s conception of higher love in “Arms and the Man.”
“Arms and the Man” (1894) is a famous play by George Bernard Shaw (1856 –1950) that describes love in various forms. In the play, the concept of higher love is a prominent theme. Here are some key points to consider: Here, Higher love is portrayed as a form of idealistic and intellectual love that goes beyond sphysical attraction.
Higher Love: “Higher love” refers to a type of love based on mutual respect, understanding, and intellectual connection and goes beyond mere physical attraction. In other words, higher love is based on genuine connection and values that have nothing to do with wealth or social status.
Shaw’s Conception of Higher Love in the Play: Raina’s initial idea of love is based on idealized, romantic notions. She is infatuated with the heroic soldier Sergius, who she sees as a noble, selfless figure. Rains says
I shall never be unworthy my soul’s hero: never, never.
However, Raina’s idea of love changes when she meets Captain Bluntschli.
Concept of True Love or Higher Love: Through her interactions with Bluntschli, Raina realizes that true love is not only heroism and nobility but also about practicality, mutual respect, and a willingness to face life’s challenges together. Shaw describes his concept of higher love through the character of Raina as a more mature, realistic form of love that goes beyond mere infatuation and fantasy. Rina says:
Do you know, you are the first man I ever met who did not take me seriously?
Traditional Idea of Romantic Love: Sergius, one of the main characters, represents the traditional idea of romantic love based on bravery and heroism. Raina, the heroin of the play, initially admires Sergius’ bravery and heroism, but ultimately, she realizes that it’s not enough to sustain a meaningful relationship.
Shaw’s Ideal of Love: Sergius is more concerned with his image and reputation in this play, but Bluntsley puts Raina’s needs and safety above his own. Raina’s relationship with Bluntsley represents Shaw’s ideal of love. Because Bluntsley treats Raina with respect and kindness and admires her honesty and simplicity. Through Raina’s experiences with Sergius and Bluntschli, Shaw reminds us that true love is not just about physical attraction or social status but mutual understanding and respect.
Shaw’s conception of higher love in “Arms and the Man” emphasizes the importance of emotional depth and mutual respect in relationships and challenges traditional concepts of love and romance.