Arms and the Man November 14, 2006

This is a delightful comedy by George Bernard Shaw about the "Chocolate Cream Soldier," Bluntschi, who is a Serbian officer and his illicit seduction of Raina. The year is 1885. They meet after Serbia's defeat when the fleeing Bluntschi climbs into Raina's bedroom. She is outraged and filled with romantic drivel about heroism and honor. He is relaxed, insouciant and charming, offering her candies. She hides him, then helps him escape. Raina's betrothed, Bulgarian war hero, Sergius, arrives. A servant clues him in to Raina's tryst with Bluntschi. Complications follow. Bluntschi's sharp realism defeats all.