Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Collection
Publication
Penguin Classics (2003), Paperback, 336 pages
Description
One of Bernard Shaw's most glittering comedies, Arms and the Man is a burlesque of Victorian attitudes to heroism, war and empire. In the contrast between Bluntschli, the mercenary soldier, and the brave leader, Sergius, the true nature of valour is revealed. Shaw mocks deluded idealism in Candida, when a young poet becomes infatuated with the wife of a Socialist preacher. The Man of Destiny is a witty war of words between Napoleon and a 'strange lady', while in the exuberant farce You Never Can Tell a divided family is reunited by chance. Although Shaw intended Plays Pleasant to be gentler comedies than those in their companion volume, Plays Unpleasant, their prophetic satire is sharp and provocative.
User reviews
LibraryThing member bullfinch
I love these comedies by Bernard Shaw. Especially Arms and the Man and the Chocolate Cream Soldier and You Never Can Tell. Good clean fun.
LibraryThing member stilton
"Arms and the Man" is a farce with beards. I can't comment on the others since I've not read them.
Language
Original publication date
1898
Physical description
336 p.; 7.56 inches
ISBN
0140437940 / 9780140437942
Local notes
Arms and the Man. Candida. You Never Can Tell. Man of Destiny