# Major Petkoff — Arms and the Man character guide

> Major Petkoff in Arms and the Man by George Bernard Shaw.

**Role:** supporting

**Also known as:** Petkoff, Petkoff Bosh, Petkoff Grinning, Petkoff Not, Petkoff Exasperated, Petkoff Muttering

**First appearance:** 0001-arms-and-the-man

## Snapshot

A cheerful, unpolished Bulgarian major who is delighted to be home from the war and would rather smoke his hookah than sign orders.

## Who they are

Petkoff returns from the front with military rank he never sought and a comfortable appetite for lunch, newspapers, and his old coat. He is genial, easily managed by Catherine, and cheerfully baffled by Bluntschli's businesslike efficiency. His blundering good nature and obliviousness to the romantic intrigues around him make him the play's warmest comic anchor.

## Links

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