Anton Chekhov Essay Example

his stories that year. Most of these stories were signed "Antosha Chekhonte." Furthermore, his initial book, Tales of Melpomene, consisting of six humorous pieces, was self-published in mid-1884 using his own money (on credit). These early stories by Chekhov exhibited cleverness and enthusiasm, reflecting his potential as a writer. In 1886, Chekhov's first book to be published by someone else, Motley Stories, was released with his true name on it. This book achieved success and established Chekhov as a promising talent. Consequently, he reduced his medical practice and devoted more time to writing. In February 1887, he was elected to the Literary Fund, an exclusive honor reserved for distinguished authors. Following this honor, Chekhov's first completed play, Ivanov, premiered in Moscow in November 1887. Subsequently, he shifted his focus from writing for humor magazines towards serious fiction and drama.

Chekhov's works include both plays and short stories. Some of his well-known play titles include The Bear, The Cherry Orchard, A Marriage Proposal, Uncle Vanya, and The Wood Demon. As for his short stories, notable titles are A Woman's Kingdom, The Black Monk, The Shoemaker and the Devil, A Bad Business, and The Lottery Ticket.

Characters/Character Analysis: Ivan Dmitritch is a content middle-class man with an annual income of twelve hundred. His wife, Masha Dmitritch, is the owner of the lottery ticket in the story.

The story took place in their house where Ivan, who was content with his life, sat on the sofa after supper and read the newspaper. This implies that Ivan is satisfied with his current living situation. The events occurred at night, after supper.

The main focus of

the story is Ivan Dmitritch, a middle-class man who earns an annual income of twelve hundred. He and his family are satisfied with their simple way of life.

After dinner, Ivan sat down and grabbed a newspaper to read. Masha, his wife and one of the few lottery players, requested him to verify the lottery numbers in the newspaper. Ivan skimmed through the column of numbers and was astonished to discover that they coincided with his wife's (9,499). Both Ivan and Masha were elated and started daydreaming about their plans for spending the money, convinced that riches would bring them joy. They envisioned a lavish and extravagant lifestyle that could satisfy all their life's necessities.

They have already started dreaming about a life of riches, as though they have already checked if they have the same lottery ticket to claim the winnings. However, Ivan imagined his own dreams: leisurely enjoying a luxurious vacation, buying property, paying off debts, and taking care of immediate expenses. Ivan also wanted to travel internationally, and his wife quickly expressed her desire to do the same.

Masha requested him once again to verify the lottery ticket number to confirm, but he declined and opted to wander around the room and contemplate. His thoughts centered on traveling and reveling in a life of wealth all by himself. This self-centeredness gave rise to negative thoughts and wicked intentions, including the idea of remarrying. His desires overshadowed the love they once shared. Ivan gazed solemnly at Masha, and she returned his look with animosity. She had her own plans, desires, and reflections; she comprehended her husband's thoughts. And she knew

that it all revolved around her monetary prize. However, their daydreaming came to an end as reality abruptly confronted them with the truth that Masha's lottery ticket number (26) differed from the announced results (46).

All the thoughts and ideas remained as mere thoughts and ideas.

The Lottery Ticket serves as a reminder of the power of money and its ability to transform people. Anton Chekhov explores the theme of money in this story, highlighting its ability to exploit people's weaknesses and alter their behavior, speech, and thoughts. Additionally, Chekhov emphasizes how money can be detrimental to relationships.

Learning to be content and appreciating what we have is crucial, instead of focusing on what we lack. This mindset allows us to find contentment and eliminates the desire for more.