Author
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
1860-1904
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov (1860-1904) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
Project Gutenberg Compilation of Short Stories by Chekhov
"Project Gutenberg Compilation of Short Stories by Chekhov" by Chekhov is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. This compilation includes a wide array of tales highlighting the intricacies of human nature, often set against the backdrop of Russian society. The stories evoke themes of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships, showcasing the plight of various characters navigating their personal struggles. The beginning of "The Horse-Stealers," the first story in the collection, introduces the character Yergunov, a hospital assistant who finds himself lost in a snowstorm after borrowing a horse from his doctor. As he stumbles upon a suspicious tavern known for its association with local thieves, Yergunov encounters interesting yet dubious characters, including a known horse thief named Kalashnikov. The atmosphere thickens with intrigue as Yergunov grapples with his own moral compass amidst the seedy setting, leading to a series of encounters that explore themes of bravado, shame, and desire. This opening sets the tone for a deeper exploration of human behavior and societal norms prevalent throughout Chekhov's work.
The Lady with the Dog and Other Stories
"The Lady with the Dog and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The stories often explore themes of human relationships, emotional struggles, and the complexity of life, centering around characters navigating love, regret, and the intricacies of society. A key narrative follows Dmitri Dmitritch Gurov, a man drawn to a mysterious lady with a Pomeranian dog, as he grapples with his feelings amidst societal expectations and personal discontent. The opening of the collection introduces Gurov as he observes a new arrival in Yalta, a fair-haired woman known simply as "the lady with the dog." As Gurov becomes intrigued by her, he reflects on his own complex feelings towards women, revealing a history of infidelity and disillusionment with his marriage. The narrative captures the moment they meet in a public garden and begin a conversation, where he learns her name, Anna Sergeyevna. This initial encounter sets the stage for their evolving relationship and hints at the emotional depth and subsequent conflicts that Chekhov masterfully weaves throughout the story.
The Sea-Gull
"The Sea-Gull" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a play written in 1895. Four characters clash over art and love at a country estate: a fading actress, her aspiring playwright son, a famous writer, and a young woman who dreams of the stage. Romantic entanglements intertwine with artistic ambitions as characters speak in subtext rather than direct declarations. The opening night in 1896 was a notorious disaster, but a later production became a triumph that transformed Russian theatre forever.
Plays by Anton Chekhov, Second Series
"Plays by Anton Chekhov, Second Series" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of dramatic works created during the late 19th century, showcasing the unique style and depth of one of Russia's most celebrated playwrights. This volume includes several notable plays such as "The Bear," "The Proposal," and "The Cherry Orchard," among others. The overarching themes of his works often revolve around the complexities of human relationships, social issues, and the often absurd nature of everyday life, providing insights into the characters' struggles and desires. The opening portion of the collection features a detailed introduction by the translator, Julius West, who discusses the significance of Chekhov's contributions to theatre. It outlines Chekhov's evolution as a playwright, highlighting how his early works laid the foundation for the deep psychological character studies and subtle humor found in his later plays. In particular, the introduction mentions the dramatic study "On the High Road," where characters like Tihon, a bar proprietor, and Bortsov, a troubled landowner, navigate themes of despair and addiction within a tense atmosphere. It sets the stage for the exploration of complex character dynamics, paving the way for the exploration of social issues and human emotional depth that Chekhov is renowned for.
Uncle Vanya: Scenes from Country Life in Four Acts
"Uncle Vanya: Scenes from Country Life in Four Acts" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a play first published in 1897. When an elderly professor and his beautiful young wife visit a rural estate, two men fall under her spell while confronting their provincial disappointments. The estate manager Vanya has sacrificed years supporting the professor's career, while his niece Sonya harbors unspoken feelings for the local doctor. Crisis erupts when the professor announces plans to sell the estate—their home—threatening to upend their carefully managed existence.
The Cook's Wedding and Other Stories
"The Cook's Wedding and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The book features a range of characters that reflect the intricacies of human nature and social dynamics, often highlighting themes of love, despair, and the absurdity of life. The opening story, "The Cook's Wedding," introduces a young boy named Grisha, who becomes embroiled in the peculiar events surrounding a cabman's visit to his household and the cook Pelageya's reluctant engagement. At the start of "The Cook's Wedding," Grisha is captivated by the happenings in the kitchen as the old nurse and a cabman discuss marriage over tea, while Pelageya, the cook, struggles with her emotions about marrying him. Grisha's youthful innocence shines through as he reflects on the notion of marriage, expressing bewilderment at the idea of a cook marrying a cabman, whom he deems unworthy. The situation escalates as Pelageya's agitation grows, culminating in a humorous yet poignant wedding ceremony that involves various members of the household. Chekhov captures the complexity of relationships and societal expectations, allowing readers to resonate with the challenges his characters face while maintaining a delicate strand of humor and empathy throughout the narrative.
Letters of Anton Chekhov to His Family and Friends
"Letters of Anton Chekhov to His Family and Friends" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of personal correspondences written during the late 19th century. This compilation offers readers a glimpse into the author's life, thoughts, and relationships, showcasing his transition from a struggling writer to a celebrated literary figure. The letters are filled with Chekhov's reflections on family, friendship, and the challenges he faced, providing insight into his character and the socio-cultural context of his time. At the start of the work, Chekhov's letters reveal his warm and humorous style, as well as his deep affection for his family. In one letter, he encourages his brother Misha to recognize his own worth and dignifies the art of reading, while in another, he reflects on the mundane experiences of travel with a mix of wit and melancholy. The initial excerpts lay the foundation for understanding Chekhov not just as a playwright and storyteller, but as a compassionate family member grappling with the burdens and joys of life, thereby inviting readers to explore the poignant simplicity and complexity of human connections through his eyes.
The Bet, and other stories
"The Bet" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The titular story explores profound themes of human nature, morality, and the value of life through the lens of a bold wager between a wealthy banker and a young lawyer. The narrative delves into the psychological struggles faced by the characters involved, particularly focusing on the impact of a long-term bet on both their lives. At the start of "The Bet," the story sets the stage with a dark autumn night where an old banker reflects on a party he hosted fifteen years prior. The conversation among guests turns to capital punishment, igniting a heated debate that leads the banker to impulsively wager two million rubles against the lawyer's freedom for fifteen years of imprisonment. As the narrative unfolds, it traces the lawyer's harrowing experience of solitude and learning during his confinement, while the banker grapples with the consequences of his bet, ultimately revealing themes of desperation, lost values, and existential contemplation. This opening portion invites readers to question the nature of freedom and the moral dilemmas surrounding human existence.
The schoolmistress, and other stories
"The Schoolmistress and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories delve into the complexities of human emotions and social situations, often exploring themes of loneliness, love, and societal constraints. In the opening tale, "The Schoolmistress," the narrative follows Marya Vassilyevna, a weary schoolteacher, as she reflects on her mundane life and internal struggles on a journey back to her village. At the start of "The Schoolmistress," readers are introduced to Marya Vassilyevna, who is returning home after collecting her salary. As she travels along a familiar road, Chekhov captures her sense of monotony and discontentment, overshadowed by the memories of her past life that she struggles to recall. The story paints a vivid picture of her surroundings while also hinting at her longing for connections and the beauty that life offers, yet remains just out of reach. As she encounters Hanov, a local landowner with an alluring charm, Marya contemplates the absurdity of her own life in comparison to his, intensifying her inner conflict. This opening sets the stage for a poignant exploration of her unfulfilled desires and the harsh realities of her existence.
The Black Monk, and Other Stories
"The Black Monk, and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work showcases Chekhov's reflections on the complexity of human nature, the struggles of ordinary individuals, and the often mundane realities of life. Among the stories, "The Black Monk" stands out with its protagonist Andrei Vasilyevitch Kovrin, whose experiences blur the lines between sanity and madness, love and existential dread. The opening of "The Black Monk" introduces Andrei Kovrin, a troubled man advised by a friend to spend time in the country to restore his nerves. He visits the estate of his guardian, Pesótsky, where he finds himself enchanted by both the beauty of the gardens and the presence of Pesótsky’s daughter, Tánya. As Kovrin immerses himself in the tranquil rural life, he grapples with his ambitions and psychological struggles, hinting at deeper themes of identity and purpose. The narrative sets a contemplative tone, capturing Kovrin's evolving relationship with Tánya while foreshadowing the mystical elements embodied in the legend of the Black Monk, which serves as a metaphor for his internal conflict.
The Wife, and Other Stories
"The Wife and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century, a time marked by significant social and political change in Russia. This specific narrative, titled "The Wife," explores the complex emotional landscape of marriage, duty, and the struggles of the protagonist, Pavel Andreitch, as he grapples with his relationships and the dire plight of the starving peasants nearby. At the start of "The Wife," Pavel receives a distressing letter about peasants suffering from famine and illness in the village of Pestrovo. Troubled by their plight, he finds himself unable to concentrate on his writing and feels a compelling urge to help them, despite his isolation from those around him, including his wife, Natalya Gavrilovna. Their relationship has become distant over the years, marked by mutual resentment and misunderstanding. As Pavel resolves to aid the peasants and organize assistance, their interactions reveal deep-seated frustrations and estrangements, culminating in a poignant reflection on love, duty and the meaning of happiness in a world rife with suffering. The contrasting dynamics of their relationship and the looming crisis outside set the stage for a rich exploration of human emotion and social responsibility.
Love, and Other Stories
"Love, and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The opening tale, "Love," focuses on the experience of a young man who is deeply infatuated with Sasha, a girl he has met. The narrative captures the ebb and flow of his emotions as he navigates the journey of falling in love, from the anticipation of writing a love letter to the complexities of engagement and romantic connection. At the start of the story, the protagonist vividly describes the blissful feelings that accompany his newfound romance with Sasha, which he reveals through the intimate process of writing her a love letter late at night. The scene shifts between his nostalgic recollections of their interactions and the excitement of their rendezvous in a secluded park, where he contemplates their secret affair, only to find Sasha absorbed more in the romantic mystique of the situation than in their actual relationship. As the story progresses, the realities of engagement surface—highlighting the mundane aspects of preparations and familial obligations—leading him to reflect on the discrepancies between his expectations of love and the realities of married life he experiences after their wedding. Through this introspective lens, Chekhov delves into themes of love’s idealism versus its lived experience, ultimately illustrating both the enchantment and disillusionment that can accompany romantic relationships.
The Horse-Stealers and Other Stories
"The Horse-Stealers and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The opening story, "The Horse-Stealers," introduces a hospital assistant named Yergunov, who is portrayed as a braggart and drunkard. After losing his way during a snowstorm, he seeks shelter at a questionable tavern, leading him into a world filled with peasants, thieves, and unexpected moral dilemmas. The story reflects themes of desire, societal roles, and human folly. The opening of "The Horse-Stealers" sets the stage for a tense and atmospheric tale. Yergunov, returning home from making hospital purchases, finds himself lost and cold in a snowstorm. His decision to stop at a dubious tavern introduces him to Kalashnikov, a scoundrel and horse-stealer, and other unsavory characters, including the alluring Lyubka. As Yergunov interacts with them, his bravado is tested, revealing his insecurities and complicating his relationships with both the men and the woman. This opening segment introduces the intricate social dynamics of rural life, the clash of character motivations, and Chekhov's sharp observations on human nature, all of which promise a rich exploration of morality and identity throughout the collection.
The Darling and Other Stories
"The Darling and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships, often delving into the lives of ordinary characters as they navigate their personal dilemmas and societal expectations. The opening of "The Darling" introduces us to Olenka, a kind-hearted and gentle woman who finds herself emotionally compelled to love those around her. We learn about her early attachments to family members and later her romance with Kukin, the manager of a local theater, whose struggles against public indifference to his artistic endeavors deeply affect her. As they marry, Olenka becomes heavily involved in the theater world, adopting Kukin's passion for the arts. However, tragedy strikes when Kukin dies unexpectedly, leaving Olenka in profound grief. The narrative highlights her reliance on love and affection to find purpose, foreshadowing her need for attachment as she navigates life without her husband.
The Witch, and Other Stories
"The Witch and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The opening story, "The Witch," introduces us to the sexton Savely Gykin and his wife Raissa as they cope with a snowstorm while reflecting on their lives and relationships. The narrative explores themes of superstition, jealousy, and the complexities of marital dynamics in a rural setting, with a particular focus on the conflicted feelings of Savely regarding his wife’s supposed witchcraft. The beginning of "The Witch" sets a vivid scene as Savely lies in bed, hearing the raging storm outside and suspecting his wife of using witchery to summon chaos and attract unwanted male visitors. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes evident that the couple's relationship is fraught with insecurities and accusations, highlighting Savely’s paranoia and Raissa’s frustration with his suspicions. The arrival of a postman seeking shelter in their home amid the storm precipitates tension and reveals layers of desire and discord within the couple. This opening sets the stage for a blend of humor and drama, reflective of Chekhov's skill in portraying the human condition through everyday situations.
The Duel and Other Stories
"The Duel and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. This work delves into the complexities of human relationships, morality, and societal expectations, typically set against the backdrop of Russian life. It notably explores the inner conflicts of its characters, who grapple with love, desire, and personal dilemmas. The opening of "The Duel" introduces us to Ivan Andreitch Laevsky, a clerk disillusioned with his life and the woman he lives with, Nadyezhda Fyodorovna. As Laevsky and his friend, army doctor Samoylenko, discuss Laevsky's deteriorating feelings towards Nadyezhda, Laevsky reveals his deep-seated frustrations with their relationship, acknowledging a profound sense of aimlessness in his existence. The conversation touches upon themes of love, obligation, and the desire to escape one's circumstances, setting the stage for Laevsky's internal struggles as he contemplates his next steps and disposition towards his life in the Caucasus. As Laevsky confronts his feelings of inadequacy and moral conflict, the reader is drawn into a nuanced exploration of the human condition, typical of Chekhov's poignant storytelling.
Ivanoff: A Play
"Ivanoff: A Play" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a four-act drama first performed in 1887. Nikolai Ivanov, a debt-ridden government official, struggles with melancholy as his marriage crumbles and his tuberculosis-stricken wife unknowingly approaches death. When he becomes entangled with Sasha, his creditor's young daughter, a web of accusations about his motives begins to tighten. Chekhov's drama explores internal conflicts and moral judgment, building toward a shocking climax that questions whether redemption is possible for a man who has lost his appetite for life.
Swan Song
"Swan Song" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a one-act play written during the late 19th century, specifically in the transitional period of Russian literature. This poignant work delves into themes of aging, loneliness, and the existential weight of a life spent in the pursuit of artistic acclaim, encapsulating the struggles of an aging actor coming to terms with his past and his mortality. Chekhov, celebrated for his insight into the human condition, weaves a narrative that portrays the melancholy yet humorous reality of a life spent on stage. The play centers around Vasili Svetlovidoff, a 68-year-old comedian who finds himself alone in an empty theater after a performance dedicated to him. As he reflects on his life, he is consumed by feelings of regret and nostalgia, recalling his youthful exuberance and past artistic successes. Joined by Nikita Ivanitch, an old prompter, Svetlovidoff's melancholic musings shift between moments of revelry and despair, revealing his isolation and the fleeting nature of fame. Through their interactions, the play contrasts the vibrancy of the actor's once-celebrated talent with the stark realities of aging and forgotten glory, ultimately leaving audiences to ponder life's transitory nature and the quest for meaningful connections amidst the ravages of time.
The Three Sisters
Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Sisters_(play)
The Bishop and Other Stories
"The Bishop and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The stories explore various themes of human experience, social dynamics, and emotional depth, often set against the backdrop of Russian life. One of the prominent pieces, "The Bishop," follows Bishop Pyotr as he navigates the complexities of his spiritual role, grapples with personal memories, and reflects on his relationships with family and parishioners. At the start of "The Bishop," the evening service on the eve of Palm Sunday is underway at the Old Petrovsky Convent. Bishop Pyotr, feeling unwell and exhausted, distributes palm branches to a crowd that seems relentless in its movement and emotion. Through his fatigued perspective, he experiences a mix of nostalgia and sorrow, particularly when he believes he sees his mother in the congregation—a memory that evokes tears. As the narrative unfolds, the bishop reflects on his past, his family, and the burdens of his ecclesiastical duties. This opening establishes a rich exploration of memory, connection, and the weight of expectation in both personal and professional realms, setting the stage for the deeper themes of faith and human complexity that Chekhov is renowned for.
Russian Silhouettes: More Stories of Russian Life
"Russian Silhouettes: More Stories of Russian Life" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book explores various aspects of Russian life, particularly through the eyes of children and family dynamics, offering insights into the social fabric and emotional undercurrents of the time. At the start of the collection, the reader is introduced to a vibrant family atmosphere filled with excitement as young Volodia returns home. The chaotic yet joyful reunion highlights both warmth and tension, particularly through the lens of two boys, Volodia and his friend Tchetchevitsin, who dream of adventure and planning a fantastical escape to America. The children are depicted with all their youthful innocence and ambition, engaged in whimsical conversations about wild animals and treasure, revealing their dreams and the realities of their upbringing. This opening sets a tone of nostalgia, exploration of childhood, and the gentle humor characteristic of Chekhov's storytelling.
The Party and Other Stories
"The Party and Other Stories" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century during a period of significant social change in Russia. The stories delve into the complexities of human relationships and the subtlety of emotions that connect and disconnect individuals in various settings. The opening story, "The Party," revolves around Olga Mihalovna, a pregnant hostess feeling fatigued and emotionally strained during a name-day celebration for her husband, Pyotr Dmitritch. At the start of "The Party," readers are introduced to the setting of a lavish dinner, where Olga feels overwhelmed by the festivities and her role as the hostess. She seeks solace in her thoughts about her unborn child, often interrupting her reflections with feelings of jealousy towards her husband, who appears charming and carefree in the company of a young woman, Lubotchka. As she grapples with her emotions and her husband’s flippant attitudes, Olga's inner turmoil escalates, leading to deep-seated insecurities about her marital relationship and the authenticity of her husband's affections. This tension unfolds in Chekhov's trademark style, blending humor with a poignant examination of the human condition, leaving the reader intrigued by the complexities of love, jealousy, and the pressures of societal expectations.
Note-Book of Anton Chekhov
"Note-Book of Anton Chekhov" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a collection of notes, themes, and sketches that reflect the creative processes of the famed Russian playwright and short story writer, written during the late 19th to early 20th century. The compilation showcases Chekhov's unique observations on life, art, society, and humanity, providing insights into his thoughts and the eventual works he intended to develop. At the start of the notebook, Chekhov's diary entries from 1896 reveal snippets of his interactions with contemporaries like Tolstoy and various cultural figures, encapsulating his experiences in Petersburg and Moscow. Through his anecdotes and musings, Chekhov reflects on societal norms, literary criticism, and his personal observations about those around him, blending humor with deep social critique. The opening sets a contemplative tone, inviting readers into the mind of a literary genius as he navigates the complexities of life, relationships, and his artistic pursuits.
The shooting party
"The Shooting Party" by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov is a novel published in 1884. Chekhov's only full-length novel unfolds as a manuscript submitted to a publisher, recounting a mysterious murder during a hunting party in provincial Russia. When an estate forester's daughter is found stabbed to death in the woods, suspicion falls on her husband. But as the investigation proceeds, questions arise about who truly committed the crime in this innovative early detective story.