April 13, 2023

Arms and the Man by George Bernard Shaw

2 hours 27 minutes

George Bernard Shaw's Arms and the Man—a witty romantic comedy satirizing war, heroism, and romantic idealism through the story of Raina Petkoff, her fiancé Sergius, and the pragmatic Swiss mercenary Captain Bluntschli. Full cast dramatization.

📖 About the Work

Arms and the Man (1894) is Shaw's comedic masterpiece satirizing romantic notions of war and love. Set during the 1885 Serbo-Bulgarian War, the play follows Raina Petkoff, a young Bulgarian woman engaged to the dashing war hero Sergius Saranoff. When the practical Swiss mercenary Captain Bluntschli seeks refuge in her bedroom, Raina's idealistic worldview is challenged. Through witty dialogue and sharp social commentary, Shaw exposes the absurdities of war heroism, class pretensions, and romantic idealism.

✍️ About George Bernard Shaw

George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950) was an Irish playwright, critic, and Nobel Prize winner whose works revolutionized modern theater. Known for his wit, social commentary, and advocacy for social reform, Shaw wrote over 60 plays including Pygmalion, Saint Joan, and Man and Superman. Arms and the Man established his reputation as a master of comedy and satire.

🎙️ Full Cast Performance

This LibriVox production features a talented ensemble cast bringing Shaw's characters to life. Narrated by Availle, with Elizabeth Klett as Raina, mb as Captain Bluntschli, Mark F. Smith as Sergius, and a full supporting cast. Audio edited by Elizabeth Klett.

🎭 Cast