Theory question 105
Other Set Texts: Non-African DramaLiterature 2, Section B: Non-African Drama. George Bernard Shaw: Arms and the Man
With close reference to the text, compare the characters of the following:
(a) Catherine and Petkoff (b) Louka and Nichola.
Show the model answer
(a) Catherine Petkoff: Raina's mother; snobbish, proud of the family's 'library' and electric bell; romantic about war; dominant in the home; quick-witted, helps hide Bluntschli and the coat.
Major Petkoff: her husband; easy-going, simple, rather foolish; proud of rank but not a real soldier; easily deceived (the coat episode).
Comparison: both pretentious and status-conscious; Catherine is cleverer and controls Petkoff.
(b) Louka: bold, ambitious, proud maid; refuses to be servile; flirts with Sergius and ends engaged to him; tells secrets to gain advantage.
Nicola: the cautious, servile manservant; practical and calculating, plans to open a shop; gives Louka up; Bluntschli praises his common sense.
Comparison: Louka rejects her station, Nicola accepts it; both shrewd but opposite in attitude.
Quote or refer to incidents for each.
Compare: similarities and differences, with incidents from the play.