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Chekhov, Anton Pavlovich, 1860-1904 -- Translations into English Books
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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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
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.
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