An Existential Reading of GB Shaw’s Arms and the Man

Abstract

This paper attempts to analyze George Bernard Shaw’s Arms and the Man from existentialistic approach. Adopting a qualitative content analysis method, it concentrates on the fundamental components of existentialism such as searching for the true identity and selfhood, the authenticity of meaningless war and absurd romantic love questioning freedom of choice and decision. Representing the futile Bulgarian war along with its controversial customs and manners, it demonstrates the ultimate destination of the individuals of the play. Additionally, it figures out how the major characters like Sergius and Bluntschli reached the peak of their sincere individuality and refuted their conventional professional advantages and ancestral positions. The study also includes how the downtrodden characters like Louka and Nicola confronted the worthless social system, the erroneous noble lifestyle and the deceitful aristocracy for the search of a distinguished survival.