The Proposal | English | CBSE | Class X
Updated: Oct 17
Lesson Architecture
Introduction
The Proposal is a one-act comedy by the renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekhov. Set in a rural Russian estate, the play revolves around the absurdity of social conventions and the trivial disputes that often overshadow serious matters, particularly in the lives of the upper class.
The story follows Ivan Lomov, a nervous and hypochondriacal landowner, who visits his neighbour, Stepan Chubukov, with the intention of proposing marriage to Chubukov’s daughter, Natalya Stepanovna. Although he arrives in formal attire, signaling the importance of his visit, his nerves get the better of him.
As Lomov attempts to declare his intentions, a series of comical misunderstandings and heated arguments arise over seemingly trivial matters, such as the ownership of a piece of land called Oxen Meadows and the qualities of their respective dogs. The arguments escalate to the point where the characters forget the purpose of Lomov's visit, highlighting the absurdity of their social interactions.
The play explores themes of love, marriage, and the absurdity of human behaviour, showcasing how the characters' obsession with property and social status can lead to ridiculous conflicts. Chekhov's sharp wit and keen observation of human nature make The Proposal a timeless piece that humorously critiques the social norms of his time.
As you read or watch the play, consider how the characters’ actions reflect their personalities and societal expectations, and think about what Chekhov might be saying about relationships and the nature of conflict.
Theme:
This story is a one-act farcical play depicting the norm among wealthy families in nineteenth-century Russia for marriage alliance with wealthy families.
Such ties are of utmost importance because they made good economic sense.
Love and romance did not hold a prominent place in such marriages of convenience.
The play also highlights on the conflict and differences of opinion that underlies the husband-wife relationship.
Lesson-At-A-Glance:
Ivan Vassilevitch is a landowner and neighbour of Stephan Stepanovitch Chubukov and his daughter Natalya.
Mr. Ivan comes to visit Chubukov to ask for the hand of his daughter in marriage.
Chubukov is ecstatic and says how he had always loved Lomov as his own son.
Chubukov's hypocrisy is exposed when he goes in to call Natalya, saying that a merchant has come for his goods.
Lomov is thirty-five and needs a quiet and regular life for he suffers from palpitations and other symptoms of a weak heart.
He thinks that Natalya would suit him as she is not bad-looking , well-educated and an excellent housekeeper.
When Natalya comes to meet him, they start quarrelling over a piece of land.
Natalya insists that it belongs to her family while Lomov maintains that it was only given for use to their peasants for forty years by his aunt's grandmother.
The argument between Natalya and Lomov became intense and when Chubukov joins them, the argument became further heated till Lomov leaves the place.
On hearing the news that Lomov came to propose to her , Natalya lapses into hysterics and sends her father to bring Lomov back in her house.
As soon as Lomov comes back, he complains of his heart and other ailments.
Natalya apoligizes to him and agrees with him that Oxen Meadows are his .
Natalya does so becasue she perceives an oppportunity to gain ev en more land and wealth by marrying the rich Lomov.
Natalya now indulges in another fight over their dogs. They fight over whose dog is better.
Their quarrel makes them blind to the real issue at hand-the need to come together and unite through marriage for economic advantage.
In the process of quarrelling Lomov's nerves seem to have broken down and he collapses.
When Natalya presumes Lomov to be dead, she becomes hysterical again.
Fortunately enough, it is just a faint and Lomov soon comes to senses.
Natalya' s father does not waste time any further and he forces Natalya and Lomov to kiss as soon as Lomov comes to senses.
Chubukov calls for champagne to celebrate what he calls the beginning of 'domestic bliss'.
Natalya and Lomov are now a married couple and Chubukov is relieved to finally have his daughter off his shoulders.
Line-Line Explanation of the Original Text
Original: Lomov enters, wearing a dress-jacket and white gloves. Chubukov rises to meet him.
Paraphrase: Lomov walks into the room, dressed formally in a suit and white gloves. Chubukov stands up to greet him.
Original: CHUBUKOV: My dear fellow, whom do I see! Ivan Vassilevitch! I am extremely glad! [Squeezes his hand] Now this is a surprise, my darling... How are you?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: My good friend, look who's here! Ivan Vassilevitch! I’m so happy to see you! [Shakes his hand] What a pleasant surprise, my dear... How have you been?
Original: LOMOV: Thank you. And how may you be getting on?
Paraphrase: Lomov: Thank you. And how are you doing?
Original: CHUBUKOV: We just get along somehow, my angel, thanks to your prayers, and so on. Sit down, please do... Now, you know, you shouldn’t forget all about your neighbours, my darling. My dear fellow, why are you so formal in your get-up! Evening dress, gloves, and so on. Can you be going anywhere, my treasure?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: We manage somehow, my dear, with your good wishes. Please, have a seat... You really shouldn’t neglect your neighbors, my dear. But why are you so dressed up? Fancy clothes, gloves, and everything. Are you heading somewhere, my friend?
Original: LOMOV: No. I’ve come only to see you, honoured Stepan Stepanovitch.
Paraphrase: Lomov: No, I’ve just come to visit you, respected Stepan Stepanovitch.
Original: CHUBUKOV: Then why are you in evening dress, my precious? As if you’re paying a New Year’s Eve visit!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Then why are you dressed for a fancy occasion? You look as if you’re here for a New Year’s party!
Original: LOMOV: Well, you see, it’s like this. [Takes his arm] I’ve come to you, honoured Stepan Stepanovitch, to trouble you with a request. Not once or twice have I already had the privilege of applying to you for help, and you have always, so to speak... I must ask your pardon, I am getting excited. I shall drink some water, honoured Stepan Stepanovitch.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Well, the thing is, [grabs Chubukov's arm] I’ve come to ask you a favor, Stepan Stepanovitch. I’ve asked for your help before, and you’ve always been generous... I apologize, I’m getting a little nervous. I’ll drink some water.
Original: CHUBUKOV: [aside] He’s come to borrow money. Shan’t give him any! [aloud] What is it, my beauty?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [thinking to himself] He’s probably here to borrow money. I’m not giving him any! [out loud] So, what can I do for you, my dear?
Original: LOMOV: You see, Honoured Stepanitch... I beg pardon Stepan Honouritch... I mean, I’m awfully excited, as you will please notice... In short, you alone can help me, though I don’t deserve it, of course... and haven’t any right to count on your assistance...
Paraphrase: Lomov: You see, Stepanitch... I’m sorry, I mean Stepan Honouritch... I’m really nervous, as you can see... To put it simply, only you can help me, though I don’t really deserve it or have the right to ask...
Original: CHUBUKOV: Oh, don’t go round and round it, darling! Spit it out! Well?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Don’t beat around the bush, my dear! Just say it! Well?
Original: LOMOV: One moment... this very minute. The fact is I’ve come to ask the hand of your daughter, Natalya Stepanovna, in marriage.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Just a moment... right now. The truth is, I’ve come to ask for your daughter, Natalya Stepanovna’s hand in marriage.
Original: CHUBUKOV: [joyfully] By Jove! Ivan Vassilevitch! Say it again — I didn’t hear it all!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [excitedly] Good heavens! Ivan Vassilevitch! Say that again — I didn’t catch it all!
Original: LOMOV: I have the honour to ask...
Paraphrase: Lomov: I have the honor to ask...
Original: CHUBUKOV: [interrupting] My dear fellow... I’m so glad, and so on... Yes, indeed, and all that sort of thing. [Embraces and kisses Lomov] I’ve been hoping for it for a long time. It’s been my continual desire. [Sheds a tear] And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son. May God give you both — His help and His love and so on, and so much hope... What am I behaving in this idiotic way for? I’m off my balance with joy, absolutely off my balance! Oh, with all my soul... I’ll go and call Natasha, and all that.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [interrupting] My dear friend... I’m so happy, and all that... Yes, truly, and so on. [Hugs and kisses Lomov] I’ve been waiting for this for so long. It’s always been my greatest wish. [Gets emotional] I’ve always loved you, my dear, like you were my own son. May God bless you both and give you happiness... Why am I acting so foolish? I’m overwhelmed with joy, completely overwhelmed! With all my heart... I’ll go call Natasha right away!
Original: LOMOV: [greatly moved] Honoured Stepan Stepanovitch, do you think I may count on her consent?
Paraphrase: Lomov: [deeply touched] Stepan Stepanovitch, do you think I can expect her to say yes?
Original: CHUBUKOV: Why, of course, my darling, and... as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad, she’s like a lovesick cat, and so on. Shan’t be long! [Exit.]
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Of course, my dear! Why wouldn’t she? She’s in love; honestly, she’s like a lovesick kitten. I won’t be long! [Exits.]
Original: LOMOV: It’s cold... I’m trembling all over, just as if I’d got an examination before me. The great thing is, I must have my mind made up. If I give myself time to think, to hesitate, to talk a lot, to look for an ideal, or for real love, then I’ll never get married. Brr... It’s cold! Natalya Stepanovna is an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, well-educated. What more do I want? But I’m getting a noise in my ears from excitement. [Drinks] And it’s impossible for me not to marry. In the first place, I’m already 35 — a critical age, so to speak. In the second place, I ought to lead a quiet and regular life. I suffer from palpitations, I’m excitable and always getting awfully upset; at this very moment my lips are trembling, and there’s a twitch in my right eyebrow. But the very worst of all is the way I sleep. I no sooner get into bed and begin to go off, when suddenly something in my left side gives a pull, and I can feel it in my shoulder and head... I jump up like a lunatic, walk about a bit and lie down again, but as soon as I begin to get off to sleep there’s another pull! And this may happen twenty times...
Paraphrase: Lomov: It’s cold... I’m shaking all over, like I’m about to take an exam. The main thing is, I need to make up my mind. If I start thinking too much, hesitating, talking endlessly, or looking for the perfect match or true love, I’ll never get married. Brr... it’s freezing! Natalya Stepanovna is a great homemaker, not bad-looking, and well-educated. What more could I ask for? But I’m so nervous, I can hear ringing in my ears. [Drinks] And I have to get married. First of all, I’m already 35 — a critical age, you could say. Secondly, I need a calm and orderly life. I have heart palpitations, I’m easily excitable, and I always get overly anxious; right now, my lips are trembling, and my right eyebrow keeps twitching. The worst thing, though, is my sleep. I barely get into bed and start falling asleep when suddenly something in my left side tugs, and I feel it in my shoulder and head... I jump up like a madman, walk around, then lie down again, but as soon as I’m about to fall asleep, it happens again! This can go on 20 times.
Original: [Natalya Stepanovna comes in.]
Paraphrase: [Natalya Stepanovna enters the room.]
Original : NATALYA: Well, there! It’s you, and papa said, “Go; there’s a merchant come for his goods.” How do you do, Ivan Vassilevitch?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Well, look at that! It’s you! Papa told me, “Go; there’s a merchant here for his goods.” How are you, Ivan Vassilevitch?
Original: LOMOV: How do you do, honoured Natalya Stepanovna?
Paraphrase: Lomov: How are you, respected Natalya Stepanovna?
Original: NATALYA: You must excuse my apron and neglige. We’re shelling peas for drying. Why haven’t you been here for such a long time? Sit down... [They seat themselves.] Won’t you have some lunch?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Please excuse my apron and casual clothes. We’re busy drying peas. Why haven’t you visited us in so long? Sit down... [They both sit.] Would you like some lunch?
Original: LOMOV: No, thank you, I’ve had some already.
Paraphrase: Lomov: No, thank you, I’ve already eaten.
Original: NATALYA: Then smoke. Here are the matches. The weather is splendid now, but yesterday it was so wet that the workmen didn’t do anything all day. How much hay have you stacked? Just think, I felt greedy and had a whole field cut, and now I’m not at all pleased about it because I’m afraid my hay may rot. I ought to have waited a bit. But what’s this? Why, you’re in evening dress! Well, I never! Are you going to a ball or what? Though I must say you look better... Tell me, why are you got up like that?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Then have a smoke. Here are some matches. The weather’s beautiful today, but yesterday it was so wet that the workers couldn’t do anything. How much hay have you managed to stack? You won’t believe it, I was so greedy I had an entire field cut, and now I’m regretting it because I’m afraid the hay will rot. I should’ve waited. But what’s this? Why are you in such fancy clothes? Are you off to a ball or something? Though, I must say, you look great... Why are you all dressed up?
Original: LOMOV: [excited] You see, honoured Natalya Stepanovna... the fact is, I’ve made up my mind to ask you to hear me out... Of course you’ll be surprised and perhaps even angry, but a... [aside] It’s awfully cold!
Paraphrase: Lomov: [nervously] Well, Natalya Stepanovna... I’ve decided I must tell you something... You’ll probably be shocked and maybe even upset, but... [aside] It’s freezing in here!
Original: NATALYA: What’s the matter? [pause] Well?
Paraphrase: Natalya: What’s going on? [pause] Well?
Original: LOMOV: I shall try to be brief. You must know, honoured Natalya Stepanovna, that I have long, since my childhood, in fact, had the privilege of knowing your family. My late aunt and her husband, from whom, as you know, I inherited my land, always had the greatest respect for your father and your late mother. The Lomovs and the Chubukovs have always had the most friendly, and I might almost say the most affectionate, regard for each other. And, as you know, my land is a near neighbour of yours. You will remember that my Oxen Meadows touch your birchwoods.
Paraphrase: Lomov: I’ll try to keep it short. You know, Natalya Stepanovna, I’ve known your family since I was a child. My late aunt and her husband, from whom I inherited my land, as you know, had great respect for your father and your late mother. The Lomovs and the Chubukovs have always had a very friendly, even affectionate, relationship. As you know, my land is right next to yours. You’ll recall that my Oxen Meadows are adjacent to your birchwoods.
Original: NATALYA: Excuse my interrupting you. You say, “my Oxen Meadows.” But are they yours?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Sorry to interrupt, but you said “my Oxen Meadows.” Are you sure they’re yours?
Original: LOMOV: Yes, mine.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Yes, they’re mine.
Original: NATALYA: What are you talking about? Oxen Meadows are ours, not yours!
Paraphrase: Natalya: What are you saying? Oxen Meadows belong to us, not you!
Original: LOMOV: No, mine, honoured Natalya Stepanovna.
Paraphrase: Lomov: No, they’re mine, Natalya Stepanovna.
Original: NATALYA: Well, I never knew that before. How do you make that out?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Well, I’ve never heard that before. How do you figure it out?
Original: LOMOV: How? I’m speaking of those Oxen Meadows which are wedged in between your birchwoods and the Burnt Marsh.
Paraphrase: Lomov: How? I’m talking about the Oxen Meadows that are sandwiched between your birchwoods and the Burnt Marsh.
Original: NATALYA: Yes, yes... they’re ours.
Paraphrase: Natalya: Yes, yes... those are ours.
Original: LOMOV: No, you’re mistaken, honoured Natalya Stepanovna, they’re mine.
Paraphrase: Lomov: No, you’re mistaken, Natalya Stepanovna. They’re mine.
Original: NATALYA: Just think, Ivan Vassilevitch! How long have they been yours?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Come on, Ivan Vassilevitch! How long have they supposedly been yours?
Original: LOMOV: How long? As long as I can remember.
Paraphrase: Lomov: How long? For as long as I can remember.
Original: NATALYA: Really, you won’t get me to believe that!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Honestly, I don’t believe that for a second!
Original: LOMOV: But you can see from the documents, honoured Natalya Stepanovna. Oxen Meadows, it’s true, were once the subject of dispute, but now everybody knows that they are mine. There’s nothing to argue about. You see my aunt’s grandmother gave the free use of these Meadows in perpetuity to the peasants of your father’s grandfather, in return for which they were to make bricks for her. The peasants belonging to your father’s grandfather had the free use of the Meadows for forty years, and had got into the habit of regarding them as their own, when it happened that...
Paraphrase: Lomov: But you can check the papers, Natalya Stepanovna. Oxen Meadows were once disputed, but now everyone knows they belong to me. There’s no reason to argue. My aunt’s grandmother gave the peasants of your father’s grandfather the right to use those Meadows in exchange for them making bricks for her. These peasants used the Meadows for forty years and started treating the land as their own, but then...
Original: NATALYA: No, it isn’t at all like that! Both grandfather and great-grandfather reckoned that their land extended to Burnt Marsh — which means that Oxen Meadows were ours. I don’t see what there is to argue about. It’s simply silly!
Paraphrase: Natalya: No, that’s not how it happened at all! Both my grandfather and great-grandfather believed their land stretched to Burnt Marsh — which means Oxen Meadows belong to us. There’s nothing to argue about. This is ridiculous!
Original: LOMOV: I’ll show you the documents, Natalya Stepanovna!
Paraphrase: Lomov: I can show you the documents, Natalya Stepanovna!
Original: NATALYA: No, you’re simply joking, or making fun of me. What a surprise! We’ve had the land for nearly three hundred years, and then we’re suddenly told that it isn’t ours! Ivan Vassilevitch, I can hardly believe my own ears. These Meadows aren’t worth much to me. They only come to five dessiatins, and are worth perhaps 300 roubles, but I can’t stand unfairness. Say what you will, I can’t stand unfairness.
Paraphrase: Natalya: No, you’re joking or pulling my leg. What a shock! We’ve owned that land for almost three hundred years, and now you’re telling me it’s not ours! Ivan Vassilevitch, I can hardly believe what I’m hearing. The Meadows don’t mean much to me — they’re only about five dessiatins and worth maybe 300 roubles, but I just can’t tolerate unfairness. No matter what you say, I won’t accept injustice.
Original: LOMOV: Hear me out, I implore you! The peasants of your father’s grandfather, as I have already had the honour of explaining to you, used to bake bricks for my aunt’s grandmother. Now my aunt’s grandmother, wishing to make them a pleasant...
Paraphrase: Lomov: Please listen, I beg you! As I’ve already explained, the peasants of your father’s grandfather used to make bricks for my aunt’s grandmother. She wanted to do them a favour...
Original: NATALYA: I can’t make head or tail of all this about aunts and grandfathers and grandmothers. The Meadows are ours, that’s all.
Paraphrase: Natalya: I can’t make any sense of all this talk about aunts and grandfathers and grandmothers. The Meadows are ours, that’s final.
Original: LOMOV: Mine.
Paraphrase: Lomov: They’re mine.
Original: NATALYA: Ours! You can go on proving it for two days on end, you can go and put on fifteen dress jackets, but I tell you they’re ours, ours, ours! I don’t want anything of yours and I don’t want to give anything of mine. So there!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Ours! You can try proving it for days, wear as many fancy jackets as you want, but I’m telling you — they’re ours, ours, ours! I don’t want anything from you, and I’m not giving up anything that’s mine. So there!
Original: LOMOV: Natalya Stepanovna, I don’t want the Meadows, but I am acting on principle. If you like, I’ll make you a present of them.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Natalya Stepanovna, I don’t even want the Meadows. It’s just about the principle. If you like, I’ll give them to you as a gift.
Original: NATALYA: I can make you a present of them myself, because they’re mine! Your behaviour, Ivan Vassilevitch, is strange, to say the least! Up to this we have always thought of you as a good neighbour, a friend; last year we lent you our threshing-machine, although on that account we had to put off our own threshing till November, but you behave to us as if we were gypsies. Giving me my own land, indeed! No, really, that’s not at all neighbourly! In my opinion, it’s even impudent, if you want to know.
Paraphrase: Natalya: I could just as easily give them to you because they’re mine! Ivan Vassilevitch, your behavior is rather odd! We always considered you a good neighbor, a friend. Last year, we lent you our threshing-machine, even though it meant delaying our own threshing until November, and now you treat us like gypsies! Offering me my own land! That’s not neighborly at all! In fact, I’d say it’s downright rude!
Original: LOMOV: Then you make out that I’m a landgrabber? Madam, never in my life have I grabbed anybody else’s land and I shan’t allow anybody to accuse me of having done so. [Quickly steps to the carafe and drinks more water] Oxen Meadows are mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: So you’re accusing me of being a land grabber? Madam, I have never in my life taken anyone’s land, and I won’t let anyone accuse me of that. [Quickly pours himself more water and drinks] The Oxen Meadows are mine!l
Original: NATALYA: It’s not true, they’re ours!
Paraphrase: Natalya: That’s not true! They’re ours!
Original: LOMOV: Mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: They’re mine!
Original: NATALYA: It’s not true! I’ll prove it! I’ll send my mowers out to the Meadows this very day!
Paraphrase: Natalya: It’s not true! I’ll prove it! I’ll send my workers to the Meadows today!
Original: LOMOV: What?
Paraphrase: Lomov: What?
Original: NATALYA: My mowers will be there this very day!
Paraphrase: Natalya: My workers will be there today!
Original: LOMOV: I’ll give it to them in the neck!
Paraphrase: Lomov: I’ll make sure they regret it!
Original: NATALYA: You dare!
Paraphrase: Natalya: How dare you!
Original: LOMOV: [Clutches at his heart] Oxen Meadows are mine! You understand? Mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: [Clutching his chest] The Oxen Meadows are mine! Do you understand? Mine!
Original: NATALYA: Please don’t shout! You can shout yourself hoarse in your own house but here I must ask you to restrain yourself!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Stop yelling! You can shout all you want in your own house, but here, control yourself!
Original: LOMOV: If it wasn’t, madam, for this awful, excruciating palpitation, if my whole inside wasn’t upset, I’d talk to you in a different way! [Yells] Oxen Meadows are mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: If it weren’t for this terrible heart condition, if my whole body wasn’t in turmoil, I’d speak to you differently! [Shouting] The Oxen Meadows are mine!
Original: NATALYA: Ours!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Ours!
Original: LOMOV: Mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Mine!
Original: NATALYA: Ours!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Ours!
Original: LOMOV: Mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Mine!
Original: [Enter Chubukov]
Paraphrase: [Chubukov enters]
Original: CHUBUKOV: What’s the matter? What are you shouting for?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What’s going on? Why are you both shouting?
Original: NATALYA: Papa, please tell this gentleman who owns Oxen Meadows, we or he?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Father, tell this man who owns the Oxen Meadows — us or him?
Original: CHUBUKOV: [to Lomov] Darling, the Meadows are ours!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [to Lomov] My dear, the Meadows belong to us!
Original: LOMOV: But, please, Stepan Stepanovitch, how can they be yours? Do be a reasonable man! My aunt’s grandmother gave the Meadows for the temporary and free use of your grandfather’s peasants. The peasants used the land for forty years and got accustomed to it as if it was their own, when it happened that...
Paraphrase: Lomov: But please, Stepan Stepanovitch, how can they be yours? Be reasonable! My aunt’s grandmother let your grandfather’s peasants use the Meadows for free, temporarily. They used it for forty years and got used to thinking it was theirs, but then...
Original: CHUBUKOV: Excuse me, my precious. You forget just this, that the peasants didn’t pay your grandmother and all that, because the Meadows were in dispute, and so on. And now everybody knows that they’re ours. It means that you haven’t seen the plan.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Excuse me, my dear. You forget that the peasants didn’t pay your grandmother because the Meadows were in dispute. And now everyone knows they belong to us. Clearly, you haven’t seen the land documents.
Original: LOMOV: I’ll prove to you that they’re mine!
Paraphrase: Lomov: I’ll prove to you that they’re mine!
Original: CHUBUKOV: You won’t prove it, my darling —
Paraphrase: Chubukov: You won’t prove anything, my dear —
Original: LOMOV: I shall
Paraphrase: Lomov: Yes, I will!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Dear one, why yell like that? You won’t prove anything just by yelling. I don’t want anything of yours, and don’t intend to give up what I have. Why should I? And you know, my beloved, that if you propose to go on arguing about it, I’d much sooner give up the Meadows to the peasants than to you. There!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Why are you shouting like that, dear? Yelling won’t prove anything. I don’t want anything of yours, and I’m not giving up what’s mine. Why would I? And listen, if you keep arguing about this, I’d rather give the Meadows to the peasants than to you. So there!
Original: LOMOV: I don’t understand! How have you the right to give away somebody else’s property?
Paraphrase: Lomov: I don’t understand! How can you give away someone else’s property?
Original: CHUBUKOV: You may take it that I know whether I have the right or not. Because, young man, I’m not used to being spoken to in that tone of voice, and so on. I, young man, am twice your age, and ask you to speak to me without agitating yourself, and all that.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: You can be sure that I know my rights. Young man, I’m not used to being spoken to like that. I’m twice your age, and I ask you to speak to me respectfully, without getting worked up.
Original: LOMOV: No, you just think I’m a fool and want to have me on! You call my land yours, and then you want me to talk to you calmly and politely! Good neighbours don’t behave like that, Stepan Stepanovitch! You’re not a neighbour, you’re a grabber!
Paraphrase: Lomov: No, you think I’m stupid and you’re trying to trick me! You call my land yours and expect me to speak to you politely? Good neighbours don’t behave like this, Stepan Stepanovitch! You’re not a neighbor, you’re a land-grabber!
Original: CHUBUKOV: What’s that? What did you say?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What did you just say?
Original: NATALYA: Papa, send the mowers out to the Meadows at once!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Father, send our workers to the Meadows immediately!
Original: CHUBUKOV: What did you say, sir?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What did you just say to me, sir?
Original: NATALYA: Oxen Meadows are ours, and I shan’t give them up, shan’t give them up, shan’t give them up!
Paraphrase: Natalya: The Oxen Meadows are ours, and I won’t give them up, I won’t give them up, I won’t give them up!
Original: LOMOV: We’ll see! I’ll have the matter taken to court, and then I’ll show you!
Paraphrase: Lomov: We’ll see about that! I’ll take this to court, and then you’ll see!
Original: CHUBUKOV: To court? You can take it to court, and all that! You can! I know you; you’re just on the look-out for a chance to go to court, and all that. You pettifogger! All your people were like that! All of them!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: To court? Go ahead, take it to court if you want! I know your kind — always looking for an excuse to go to court! You legal schemer! Your whole family’s like that! All of them!
Original: LOMOV: Never mind about my people! The Lomovs have all been honourable people, and not one has ever been tried for embezzlement, like your grandfather!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Don’t you dare insult my family! The Lomovs have always been honorable, and none of them were ever tried for embezzlement, unlike your grandfather!
Original: CHUBUKOV: You Lomovs have had lunacy in your family, all of you!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Your Lomov family has a history of madness! Every single one of you!
Original: NATALYA: All, all, all!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Every one of you!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Your grandfather was a drunkard, and your younger aunt, Nastasya Mihailovna, ran away with an architect, and so on...
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Your grandfather was a drunk, and your younger aunt, Nastasya Mihailovna, ran away with an architect, and so on.
Original: LOMOV: And your mother was hump-backed. [Clutches at his heart] Something pulling in my side... My head.... Help! Water!
Paraphrase: Lomov: And your mother was a hunchback! [Grabs his chest] Something’s pulling in my side... My head... Help! I need water!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Your father was a guzzling gambler!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Your father was a greedy gambler!
Original: NATALYA: And there haven’t been many backbiters to equal your aunt!
Paraphrase: Natalya: And no one could gossip like your aunt!
Original: CHUBUKOV: My left foot has gone to sleep... You’re an intriguer.... Oh, my heart! And it’s an open secret that before the last elections you bribed — I can see stars... Where’s my hat?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: My left foot is numb... You’re nothing but a schemer... Oh, my heart! And everyone knows that before the last elections you bribed — I’m seeing stars... Where’s my hat?
Original: NATALYA: It’s low! It’s dishonest! It’s mean!
Paraphrase: Natalya: That’s just low! Dishonest! Mean!
Original: CHUBUKOV: And you’re just a malicious, double-faced intriguer! Yes!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: And you’re just a sneaky, two-faced plotter! Yes, you are!
Original: LOMOV: Here’s my hat. My heart! Which way? Where’s the door? Oh I think I’m dying! My foot’s quite numb... [Goes to the door.]
Paraphrase: Lomov: Where’s my hat? Oh, my heart! Which way? Where’s the door? I think I’m dying! My foot is completely numb... [He heads for the door.]
Original: CHUBUKOV: [following him] And don’t set foot in my house again!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [following him] And don’t ever step foot in my house again!
Original: NATALYA: Take it to court! We’ll see!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Take it to court! Let’s see what happens!
Original: [Lomov staggers out.]
Paraphrase: [Lomov stumbles out of the house.]
Original: CHUBUKOV: Devil take him! [Walks about in excitement.]
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Curse him! [Paces around in frustration.]
Original: NATALYA: What a rascal! What trust can one have in one’s neighbours after that!
Paraphrase: Natalya: What a scoundrel! How can you trust your neighbors after something like that?
Original: CHUBUKOV: The villain! The scarecrow!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: That villain! That scarecrow!
Original: NATALYA: The monster! First he takes our land and then he has the impudence to abuse us.
Paraphrase: Natalya: That monster! First he tries to take our land, and then he has the nerve to insult us.
Original: CHUBUKOV: And that blind hen, yes, that turnip-ghost has the confounded cheek to make a proposal, and so on! What? A proposal!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: And that blind fool, that good-for-nothing has the gall to come here and make a proposal! Wait, what? A proposal?
Original: NATALYA: What proposal?
Paraphrase: Natalya: A proposal? What proposal?
Original: CHUBUKOV: Why, he came here to propose to you.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Why, he came here to propose to you!
Original: NATALYA: To propose? To me? Why didn’t you tell me so before?
Paraphrase: Natalya: To propose? To me? Why didn’t you tell me that earlier?
Original: CHUBUKOV: So he dresses up in evening clothes. The stuffed sausage! The wizen-faced frump!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Yes, he dressed up in formal clothes for this. That stuffed sausage! That shriveled-up fool!
Original: NATALYA: To propose to me? Ah! [Falls into an easy-chair and wails] Bring him back! Back! Ah! Bring him here.
Paraphrase: Natalya: He came to propose to me? Oh no! [Collapses into a chair, wailing] Bring him back! Bring him back! Oh, get him here!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Bring whom here?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Bring who?
Original: NATALYA: Quick, quick! I’m ill! Fetch him!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Quick, quick! I’m feeling faint! Bring him back!
Original: [Hysterics.]
Paraphrase: [She starts to panic and cry.]
Original: CHUBUKOV: What’s that? What’s the matter with you? [Clutches at his head] Oh, unhappy man that I am! I’ll shoot myself! I’ll hang myself! We’ve done for her!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What is going on? What’s wrong with you? [Grabs his head in frustration] Oh, poor me! I’ll shoot myself! I’ll hang myself! We’ve ruined her!
Original: NATALYA: I’m dying! Fetch him!
Paraphrase: Natalya: I’m dying! Go get him!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Tfoo! At once. Don’t yell! [Runs out. A pause.]
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Ugh! Right away. Stop screaming! [Runs out. There is a pause.]
Original: NATALYA: [Natalya Stepanovna wails.] What have they done to me? Fetch him back! Fetch him!
Paraphrase: Natalya: [Crying loudly] What have they done to me? Bring him back! Get him back here!
Original: [A pause. Chubukov runs in.]
Paraphrase: [There is a pause, and then Chubukov rushes back in.]
Original: CHUBUKOV: He’s coming, and so on, devil take him! Ouf! Talk to him yourself; I don’t want to...
Paraphrase: Chubukov: He’s coming, curse him! Ugh! You talk to him; I don’t want to anymore...
Original: NATALYA: [wails] Fetch him!
Paraphrase: Natalya: [Crying] Bring him here!
Original: CHUBUKOV: [yells] He’s coming, I tell you. Oh, what a burden, Lord, to be the father of a grown-up daughter! I’ll cut my throat, I will, indeed! We cursed him, abused him, drove him out; and it’s all you... you!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [Yelling] He’s on his way, I told you! Oh, what a burden it is to be the father of a grown daughter! I’m going to cut my throat, I swear! We insulted him, cursed him, and kicked him out — and it’s all your fault... all your fault!
Original: NATALYA: No, it was you!
Paraphrase: Natalya: No, it was you!
Original: CHUBUKOV: I tell you it’s not my fault. [Lomov appears at the door] Now you talk to him yourself. [Exit.]
Paraphrase: Chubukov: I’m telling you it’s not my fault. [Lomov enters at the door] Now you deal with him yourself. [Leaves the room.]
Original: LOMOV: [Lomov enters, exhausted.] My heart’s palpitating awfully. My foot’s gone to sleep. There’s something that keeps pulling in my side....
Paraphrase: Lomov: [Enters, exhausted.] My heart is beating so fast. My foot is completely numb. There’s a pulling pain in my side...
Original: NATALYA: Forgive us, Ivan Vassilevitch, we were all a little heated. I remember now: Oxen Meadows... really are yours.
Paraphrase: Natalya: Forgive us, Ivan Vassilevitch, we were all just upset. I remember now — the Oxen Meadows are yours.
Original: LOMOV: My heart’s beating awfully. My Meadows... My eyebrows are both twitching....
Paraphrase: Lomov: My heart is pounding terribly. My Meadows... Both my eyebrows are twitching...
Original: NATALYA: The Meadows are yours, yes, yours. Do sit down. [They sit] We were wrong.
Paraphrase: Natalya: Yes, the Meadows are yours, they are. Please sit down. [They both sit] We were wrong.
Original: LOMOV: I did it on principle. My land is worth little to me, but the principle...
Paraphrase: Lomov: It was all about the principle for me. The land isn’t worth much, but it’s the principle...
Original: NATALYA: Yes, the principle, just so. Now let’s talk of something else.
Paraphrase: Natalya: Yes, it’s the principle. Let’s talk about something else now.
Original: LOMOV: The more so as I have evidence. My aunt’s grandmother gave the land to your father’s grandfather’s peasants...
Paraphrase: Lomov: Especially since I have proof. My aunt’s grandmother gave the land to your grandfather’s peasants...
Original: NATALYA: Yes, yes, let that pass. [aside] I wish I knew how to get him started. [aloud] Are you going to start shooting soon?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Yes, yes, let’s not talk about that anymore. [to herself] I wish I knew how to start the conversation again. [out loud] Are you planning to start hunting soon?
Original: LOMOV: I’m thinking of having a go at the blackcock, honoured Natalya Stepanovna, after the harvest. Oh, have you heard? Just think, what a misfortune I’ve had! My dog Guess, who you know, has gone lame.
Paraphrase: Lomov: I’m thinking of hunting blackcock, Natalya Stepanovna, after the harvest. Oh, did you hear? Can you imagine what bad luck I’ve had? My dog Guess, whom you know, has gone lame.
Original: NATALYA: What a pity! Why?
Paraphrase: Natalya: What a shame! What happened?
Original: LOMOV: I don’t know. Must have got his leg twisted or bitten by some other dog. [sighs] My very best dog, to say nothing of the expense. I gave Mironov 125 roubles for him.
Paraphrase: Lomov: I don’t know. He might have twisted his leg or gotten bitten by another dog. [Sighs] He’s my best dog, and let’s not even talk about the cost. I paid 125 roubles for him to Mironov.
Original: NATALYA: It was too much, Ivan Vassilevitch.
Paraphrase: Natalya: That was too much, Ivan Vassilevitch.
Original: LOMOV: I think it was very cheap. He’s a first-rate dog.
Paraphrase: Lomov: I think it was a bargain. He’s an excellent dog.
Original: NATALYA: Papa gave 85 roubles for his Squeezer, and Squeezer is heaps better than Guess!
Paraphrase: Natalya: My father paid 85 roubles for our Squeezer, and Squeezer is way better than Guess!
Original: LOMOV: Squeezer better than Guess? What an idea! [laughs] Squeezer better than Guess!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Squeezer better than Guess? What a joke! [Laughs] Squeezer better than Guess!
Original: NATALYA: Of course he’s better! Of course, Squeezer is young, he may develop a bit, but on points and pedigree he’s better than anything that even Volchanetsky has got.
Paraphrase: Natalya: Of course he’s better! Yes, Squeezer is young, and he still has room to grow, but he has better points and pedigree than anything even Volchanetsky owns.
Original: LOMOV: Excuse me, Natalya Stepanovna, but you forget that he is overshot, and an overshot always means the dog is a bad hunter!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Excuse me, Natalya Stepanovna, but you’re forgetting that Squeezer has an overshot jaw, and that always means the dog is a poor hunter!
Original: NATALYA: Overshot, is he? The first time I hear it!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Overshot? That’s the first time I’ve heard about it!
Original: LOMOV: I assure you that his lower jaw is shorter than the upper.
Paraphrase: Lomov: I assure you, his lower jaw is shorter than his upper jaw.
Original: NATALYA: Have you measured?
Paraphrase: Natalya: Have you measured it?
Original: LOMOV: Yes. He’s all right at following, of course, but if you want to get hold of anything...
Paraphrase: Lomov: Yes. He’s good at following prey, but when it comes to catching something...
Original: NATALYA: In the first place, our Squeezer is a thoroughbred animal, the son of Harness and Chisels while there’s no getting at the pedigree of your dog at all. He’s old and as ugly as a worn-out cab-horse.
Paraphrase: Natalya: First of all, our Squeezer is a purebred, the son of Harness and Chisels. Your dog doesn’t even have a clear pedigree! He’s old and as ugly as a tired, old horse.
Original: LOMOV: He is old, but I wouldn’t take five Squeezers for him. Why, how can you? Guess is a dog; as for Squeezer, well, it’s too funny to argue. Anybody you like has a dog as good as Squeezer... you may find them under every bush almost. Twenty-five roubles would be a handsome price to pay for him.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Yes, he’s old, but I wouldn’t trade him for five Squeezers. How can you even compare? Guess is a real dog; Squeezer, on the other hand, is laughable. You could find a dog like Squeezer under any bush. Twenty-five roubles would be a fair price for him.
Original: NATALYA: There’s some demon of contradiction in you today, Ivan Vassilevitch. First you pretend that the Meadows are yours; now, that Guess is better than Squeezer. I don’t like people who don’t say what they mean, because you know perfectly well that Squeezer is a hundred times better than your silly Guess. Why do you want to say he isn’t?
Paraphrase: Natalya: You’re full of contradictions today, Ivan Vassilevitch. First, you claim the Meadows are yours, and now you’re saying Guess is better than Squeezer. I don’t like people who don’t speak the truth, because you know perfectly well that Squeezer is a hundred times better than your ridiculous Guess. Why are you insisting otherwise?
Original: LOMOV: I see, Natalya Stepanovna, that you consider me either blind or a fool. You must realise that Squeezer is overshot!
Paraphrase: Lomov: I see, Natalya Stepanovna, that you think I’m either blind or a fool. You must accept the fact that Squeezer has an overshot jaw!
Original: NATALYA: It’s not true.
Paraphrase: Natalya: That’s not true.
Original: LOMOV: He is!
Paraphrase: Lomov: He is!
Original: NATALYA: It’s not true!
Paraphrase: Natalya: It’s not true!
Original: LOMOV: Why shout madam?
Paraphrase: Lomov: Why are you shouting, madam?
Original: NATALYA: Why talk rot? It’s awful! It’s time your Guess was shot, and you compare him with Squeezer!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Why are you talking nonsense? It’s ridiculous! Guess should be put down, and yet you compare him to Squeezer!
Original: LOMOV: Excuse me, I cannot continue this discussion, my heart is palpitating.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Excuse me, but I can’t continue this conversation. My heart is racing.
Original: NATALYA: I’ve noticed that those hunters argue most who know least.
Paraphrase: Natalya: I’ve noticed that the hunters who argue the most usually know the least.
Original: LOMOV: Madam, please be silent. My heart is going to pieces. [shouts] Shut up!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Madam, please be quiet. My heart is giving out! [Shouting] Be quiet!
Original: NATALYA: I shan’t shut up until you acknowledge that Squeezer is a hundred times better than your Guess!
Paraphrase: Natalya: I won’t stop until you admit that Squeezer is a hundred times better than your Guess!
Original: LOMOV: A hundred times worse! Be hanged to your Squeezer! His head... eyes... shoulder...
Paraphrase: Lomov: A hundred times worse! Forget your Squeezer! His head... his eyes... his shoulders...
Original: NATALYA: There’s no need to hang your silly Guess; he’s half-dead already!
Paraphrase: Natalya: No need to finish off your silly Guess; he’s already half-dead!
Original: LOMOV: [weeps] Shut up! My heart’s bursting!
Paraphrase: Lomov: [Crying] Shut up! My heart is exploding!
Original: NATALYA: I shan’t shut up.
Paraphrase: Natalya: I won’t be quiet.
Original: [Enter Chubukov.]
Paraphrase: [Chubukov enters the room.]
Original: CHUBUKOV: What’s the matter now?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What’s the matter this time?
Original: NATALYA: Papa, tell us truly, which is the better dog, our Squeezer or his Guess.
Paraphrase: Natalya: Father, tell us honestly — which dog is better, our Squeezer or his Guess?
Original: LOMOV: Stepan Stepanovitch, I implore you to tell me just one thing: is your Squeezer overshot or not? Yes or no?
Paraphrase: Lomov: Stepan Stepanovitch, please just tell me one thing: is your Squeezer overshot or not? Yes or no?
Original: CHUBUKOV: And suppose he is? What does it matter? He’s the best dog in the district for all that, and so on.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: And what if he is? So what? He’s still the best dog in the district, no doubt about it.
Original: LOMOV: But isn’t my Guess better? Really, now?
Paraphrase: Lomov: But isn’t my Guess better? Honestly, now?
Original: CHUBUKOV: Don’t excite yourself, my precious one. Allow me. Your Guess certainly has his good points. He’s purebred, firm on his feet, has well-sprung ribs, and all that. But, my dear man, if you want to know the truth, that dog has two defects: he’s old and he’s short in the muzzle.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Calm down, my dear. Let me tell you this: Your Guess does have his strengths. He’s purebred, stands solidly, has good ribs, and all that. But honestly, he has two problems: he’s old and has a short muzzle.
Original: LOMOV: Excuse me, my heart... Let’s take the facts. You will remember that on the Marusinsky hunt my Guess ran neck-and-neck with the Count’s dog, while your Squeezer was left a whole verst behind.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Excuse me, my heart... Let’s talk about the facts. You remember that during the Marusinsky hunt, my Guess ran side by side with the Count’s dog, while your Squeezer was left an entire verst behind.
Original: CHUBUKOV: He got left behind because the Count’s whipper-in hit him with his whip.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: He only got left behind because the Count’s whipper hit him with a whip.
Original: LOMOV: And with good reason. The dogs are running after a fox, when Squeezer goes and starts worrying a sheep!
Paraphrase: Lomov: And for good reason! The dogs were chasing a fox, but Squeezer went off and started bothering a sheep!
Original: CHUBUKOV: It’s not true! My dear fellow, I’m very liable to lose my temper, and so, just because of that, let’s stop arguing. You started because everybody is always jealous of everybody else’s dogs. Yes, we’re all like that! You too, sir, aren’t blameless! You no sooner begin with this, that and the other, and all that... I remember everything!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: That’s not true! My dear friend, I easily lose my temper, so let’s just stop arguing. This always happens—people get jealous of other people’s dogs. We’re all like that! And you’re no better! You started with all these accusations, and I remember everything!
Original: LOMOV: I remember too!
Paraphrase: Lomov: I remember as well!
Original: CHUBUKOV: [teasing him] I remember, too! What do you remember?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [teasing] I remember, too! What exactly do you remember?
Original: LOMOV: My heart... my foot’s gone to sleep. I can’t...
Paraphrase: Lomov: My heart... my foot’s numb. I can’t...
Original: NATALYA: [teasing] My heart! What sort of a hunter are you? You ought to go and lie on the kitchen oven and catch black beetles, not go after foxes! My heart!
Paraphrase: Natalya: [mocking] Oh, my heart! What kind of hunter are you? You should stay at home and chase kitchen pests instead of foxes! My heart!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Yes really, what sort of a hunter are you, anyway? You ought to sit at home with your palpitations, and not go tracking animals. You could go hunting, but you only go to argue with people and interfere with their dogs and so on. Let’s change the subject in case I lose my temper. You’re not a hunter at all, anyway!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Exactly! What kind of hunter are you? You should stay at home with your heart problems, not out hunting animals. Even when you do go hunting, all you do is argue with people and meddle with their dogs. Let’s change the topic before I lose my temper. You’re not even a real hunter!
Original: LOMOV: And are you a hunter? You only go hunting to get in with the Count and to intrigue. Oh, my heart! You’re an intriguer!
Paraphrase: Lomov: And are you a hunter? You only go hunting to stay in the Count’s good graces and to stir up trouble. Oh, my heart! You’re nothing but a schemer!
Original: CHUBUKOV: What? I am an intriguer? [shouts] Shut up!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What? I’m a schemer? [shouting] Be quiet!
Original: LOMOV: Intriguer!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Schemer!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Boy! Pup!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: You fool! You brat!
Original: LOMOV: Old rat! Jesuit!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Old rat! Trickster!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Shut up or I’ll shoot you like a partridge! You fool!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Shut up or I’ll shoot you like I shoot partridges! You fool!
Original: LOMOV: Everybody knows that — oh, my heart! — your late wife used to beat you... My feet... temples... sparks... I fall, I fall!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Everyone knows — oh, my heart! — your late wife used to beat you... My feet... my head... I’m seeing sparks... I’m falling, I’m falling!
Original: CHUBUKOV: And you’re under the slipper of your housekeeper!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: And you’re completely under the thumb of your housekeeper!
Original: LOMOV: There, there, there... my heart’s burst! My shoulders come off! Where is my shoulder? I die. [Falls into an armchair] A doctor!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Oh no, oh no... My heart is bursting! My shoulders are falling apart! Where is my shoulder? I’m dying! [Collapses into an armchair] I need a doctor!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Boy! Milksop! Fool! I’m sick! [Drinks water] Sick!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: You coward! You fool! I’m sick of this! [Drinks water] I’m really sick!
Original: NATALYA: What sort of a hunter are you? You can’t even sit on a horse! [To her father] Papa, what’s the matter with him? Papa! Look, Papa! [screams] Ivan Vassilevitch! He’s dead!
Paraphrase: Natalya: What kind of hunter are you? You can’t even sit on a horse! [To her father] Father, what’s wrong with him? Father! Look, father! [screams] Ivan Vassilevitch! He’s dead!
Original: CHUBUKOV: I’m sick! I can’t breathe! Air!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: I feel sick! I can’t breathe! I need air!
Original: NATALYA: He’s dead. [Pulls Lomov’s sleeve] Ivan Vassilevitch! Ivan Vassilevitch! What have you done to me? He’s dead. [Falls into an armchair] A doctor, a doctor! [Hysterics.]
Paraphrase: Natalya: He’s dead! [Pulls on Lomov’s sleeve] Ivan Vassilevitch! Ivan Vassilevitch! What have you done to me? He’s dead! [Falls into an armchair] Someone get a doctor! [She becomes hysterical.]
Original: CHUBUKOV: Oh! What is it? What’s the matter?
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Oh no! What’s going on? What’s wrong?
Original: NATALYA: [wails] He’s dead... dead!
Paraphrase: Natalya: [crying] He’s dead... really dead!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Who’s dead? [Looks at Lomov] So he is! My word! Water! A doctor! [Lifts a tumbler to Lomov’s mouth] Drink this! No, he doesn’t drink. It means he’s dead, and all that. I’m the most unhappy of men! Why don’t I put a bullet into my brain? Why haven’t I cut my throat yet? What am I waiting for? Give me a knife! Give me a pistol! [Lomov moves] He seems to be coming round. Drink some water! That’s right.
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Who’s dead? [Looks at Lomov] Oh my goodness, he really is! Get some water! Get a doctor! [Tries to give Lomov some water] Drink this! No, he’s not drinking. He must be dead, after all. I’m the most miserable man alive! Why don’t I just shoot myself? Why haven’t I slit my throat yet? What am I waiting for? Give me a knife! Give me a gun! [Lomov starts moving] Wait, he’s waking up! Drink some water! Yes, that’s it.
Original: LOMOV: I see stars... mist... where am I?
Paraphrase: Lomov: I see stars... everything is blurry... where am I?
Original: CHUBUKOV: Hurry up and get married and — well, to the devil with you! She’s willing! [He puts Lomov’s hand into his daughter’s] She’s willing and all that. I give you my blessing and so on. Only leave me in peace!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Hurry up and get married already — to the devil with it! She agrees! [He grabs Lomov’s hand and puts it into Natalya’s] She’s willing, and you have my blessing and everything. Just leave me in peace!
Original: LOMOV: [getting up] Eh? What? To whom?
Paraphrase: Lomov: [standing up] Huh? What? To whom?
Original: NATALYA: [wails] He’s alive... Yes, yes, I’m willing.
Paraphrase: Natalya: [crying] He’s alive... Yes, yes, I’m willing!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Kiss each other!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: Go ahead, kiss each other!
Original: LOMOV: Eh? Kiss whom? [They kiss] Very nice, too. Excuse me, what’s it all about? Oh, now I understand ... my heart... stars... I’m happy. Natalya Stepanovna... [Kisses her hand] My foot’s gone to sleep.
Paraphrase: Lomov: Huh? Kiss who? [They kiss] Oh, that’s nice. Excuse me, what’s going on? Oh, now I get it... My heart... I see stars... I’m happy. Natalya Stepanovna... [Kisses her hand] My foot is still numb.
Original: NATALYA: I... I’m happy too...
Paraphrase: Natalya: I... I’m happy too...
Original: CHUBUKOV: What a weight off my shoulders, ouf!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What a relief! Whew!
Original: NATALYA: But, still you will admit now that Guess is worse than Squeezer.
Paraphrase: Natalya: But, you’ll admit now that Guess is worse than Squeezer, right?
Original: LOMOV: Better!
Paraphrase: Lomov: No, he’s better!
Original: NATALYA: Worse!
Paraphrase: Natalya: No, worse!
Original: CHUBUKOV: Well, that’s a way to start your family bliss! Have some champagne!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: What a way to begin married life! Let’s have some champagne!
Original: LOMOV: He’s better!
Paraphrase: Lomov: Guess is better!
Original: NATALYA: Worse! Worse! Worse!
Paraphrase: Natalya: Worse! Worse! Worse!
Original: CHUBUKOV: [trying to shout her down] Champagne! Champagne!
Paraphrase: Chubukov: [trying to drown out the argument] Champagne! Champagne!
CURTAIN
Difficult Words
Palpitations – Refers to a condition where the heart beats rapidly or irregularly. Lomov mentions suffering from this due to excitement and stress.
Perpetuity – It means something that lasts forever. Lomov talks about how the use of the Oxen Meadows was given in perpetuity to the peasants.
Dessiatins – An old Russian measure of land, equivalent to about 2.7 acres. It’s used when Natalya is talking about the Oxen Meadows.
Overshot – In the context of the play, it refers to the condition of a dog’s jaw, where the upper jaw extends over the lower jaw, affecting its ability to hunt.
Threshing – The process of separating grain from the stalks and husks. Natalya and Chubukov mention lending their threshing machine to Lomov, delaying their own work.
Verst – An old Russian unit of distance, roughly equal to 1.066 kilometers or about 0.66 miles. Lomov uses it when he talks about the dog Squeezer being left behind during a hunt.
Embezzlement – The theft or misappropriation of funds. Lomov accuses Chubukov’s grandfather of being tried for embezzlement, a serious accusation.
Jesuit – Refers to a member of the Society of Jesus, a Roman Catholic order known for its discipline and intellectual rigor. Lomov calls Chubukov a "Jesuit," implying that he is sly or deceitful.
Guzzling – Drinking greedily or to excess. Chubukov calls Lomov’s father a “guzzling gambler,” accusing him of being a heavy drinker and reckless gambler.
Milksop – A derogatory term for a weak or cowardly person. Chubukov uses this to insult Lomov, calling him a coward.
Formal Attire – Refers to clothing suitable for formal occasions, such as suits and evening dresses. Lomov’s choice of formal attire when visiting Chubukov indicates the seriousness of his visit to propose marriage.
Merchant – A person involved in trade or commerce. In the play, Chubukov refers to Lomov as a merchant when he enters, hinting at Lomov’s business-like demeanour.
Lament – To express sorrow, mourning, or regret. When characters wail or express their frustrations, they are lamenting their situations.
Intriguer – Someone who engages in secretive or underhanded schemes. Chubukov and Lomov accuse each other of being intrigues, highlighting their distrust.
Fury – Intense, violent anger. Both Lomov and Natalya display fury during their arguments, which escalates the conflict.
Pettifogger – A person who engages in petty or unscrupulous legal practices; a minor or dishonest lawyer. Chubukov uses this term to insult Lomov, indicating that he thinks Lomov is being trivial or petty in his arguments.
Regret – A feeling of sadness or disappointment over something that has happened or been done. Characters express regret over their lost tempers and misunderstandings throughout the play.
Condescension – An attitude of patronizing superiority; disdain. When Chubukov speaks to Lomov, he sometimes conveys a tone of condescension, which frustrates Lomov further.
Riddles – Puzzles or problems that require thought and ingenuity to solve, often in a metaphorical or cryptic form. In Russian wedding customs, grooms must answer riddles posed by the bride’s friends to win her.
Allure – The quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating. The allure of wealth and property drives the characters’ actions and decisions throughout the play.
Dilemma – A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives. Lomov faces a dilemma regarding proposing marriage amidst the arguments over land.
Preposterous – Contrary to reason or common sense; utterly absurd or ridiculous. The arguments over Oxen Meadows often become preposterous, showcasing the absurdity of their disputes.
Jeopardy – Danger or risk. When the marriage proposal is threatened by the arguments, it puts Lomov’s chance for happiness in jeopardy.
Debate – A formal discussion on a particular topic, where opposing arguments are put forward. The play often turns into a debate between characters over trivial matters like land ownership.
Euphoria – A feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness. The characters briefly experience euphoria when Lomov’s proposal is accepted, but it quickly turns to arguing again.
Dissonance – A lack of harmony among musical notes; in this context, it refers to the lack of agreement or consistency in the characters' actions and statements. Their conflicting desires lead to dissonance in their relationships.
Subterfuge – Deceit used in order to achieve one’s goal. The characters use subterfuge in their arguments, attempting to deceive one another about the ownership of the Oxen Meadows.
Hysteria – Exaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement. Natalya exhibits hysteria when she demands that Lomov be brought back, highlighting her emotional state.
Emotional Turmoil – A state of mental or emotional confusion or disturbance. The characters experience emotional turmoil during their arguments and misunderstandings.
Quarrel – A heated argument or disagreement. The play revolves around several quarrels between Lomov and the Chubukovs, showcasing their inability to communicate effectively.
Allusions and References
Oxen Meadows – This is the primary object of the dispute between Lomov and Natalya. The Oxen Meadows represent both an economic and symbolic point of pride for the characters, as owning land was often a source of status and power in Russian society.
The Marusinsky Hunt – A hunting expedition referenced by Lomov to prove his dog, Guess, is superior. It may not be a real historical hunt but is used to depict the aristocratic pastime of hunting that was common among wealthy Russians in that period.
Squeezer and Guess – The two dogs represent another point of pride for both Lomov and Natalya, reflecting how people can become obsessed with competition over trivial matters. Their argument over the dogs mirrors their earlier fight over the Oxen Meadows.
“Stuffed sausage” and “wizen-faced frump” – These are humorous insults used by Chubukov to describe Lomov’s appearance. A “stuffed sausage” implies that Lomov looks bloated or awkward in his formal clothes, and a “wizen-faced frump” suggests that Lomov looks old and unattractive.
The Russian Aristocracy – The entire play is an allusion to the behavior and mindset of Russian aristocrats during the 19th century. Their obsession with land ownership, marriage alliances, and status reflects the values of that time. This also leads to the frequent quarrels over trivial matters, even when they should be discussing serious issues like marriage.
Bricks and Land Ownership – Lomov’s reference to the Oxen Meadows being given for brick-making services reflects a common practice in pre-revolutionary Russia, where peasants would sometimes be allowed to use land temporarily in exchange for labour or services.
Cultural Context
Russian Social Customs – The play references Russian customs regarding marriage proposals, formal attire, and the expectations of behavior between neighbors. Lomov’s decision to dress up in evening clothes when visiting Chubukov’s house to propose to Natalya reflects the formality and ritual involved in such social interactions.
Marriages for Economic Gain – The entire premise of the play revolves around the idea that marriage was often pursued not for love but for practical reasons like increasing wealth, land ownership, or status. The characters argue over the Oxen Meadows and other trivial matters, showing how economics often overshadowed emotions.
Russian Wedding Toasts and Rituals – Though not directly referenced in the text, the idea of celebration with champagne and the traditional formality around engagements can be tied to Russian marriage traditions, where family status and material wealth were often more important than personal relationships.
Contextual Phrases
“What a weight off my shoulders!” – This phrase means to feel relief from a burden or worry. Chubukov expresses this feeling when Lomov and Natalya agree to marry.
“You can shout yourself hoarse” – This means to yell so much that your voice becomes hoarse or tired. It emphasizes the intensity of the argument.
“I’ll cut my throat!” – A dramatic expression of despair or frustration. Chubukov uses this hyperbole to convey the depth of his emotions about his daughter’s situation.
“My heart is going to pieces” – A way of saying that one is feeling extremely anxious or stressed. Lomov expresses this feeling throughout the play during arguments.
“He’s a first-rate dog” – Refers to an animal that is of high quality or excellent in terms of breed or performance. Lomov uses this to defend his dog Guess.
“You’ve got to be kidding!” – A common phrase used to express disbelief or shock at what someone has just said. This sentiment permeates the characters' conversations.
“I don’t see what there is to argue about” – This phrase shows the speaker’s frustration and disbelief over the triviality of the argument, emphasizing how pointless their disagreements are.
NCERT Solution :
1. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is he sincere when he later says, ''And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son”? Find reasons for your answer from the play.
Ans: Chubukov at first suspects that Lomov has come to borrow money from him.
Chubukov is not sincere. He had earlier thought that Lomov had come to ask for money , and he had no intention of giving him any. When Chubukov asks him to marry his daughter, he is very pleased and utters these flattery words.
2. Chubukov says of Natalya: “... as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad, she’s like a lovesick cat…” Would you agree? Find reasons for your answer.
No, Natalya is not a lovesick cat as she does not have romantic feeling for Lomov. Moreover, she gets into a heated discussion with Lomov over the ownership of Oxen Meadows.
She apparently seems to be in love with him when she comes to know from her father that Lomov came to their house to propose to her. She immediately calls him back and shows her interest for the marriage as this marriage would suit her monetary interest.
3. (i) Find all the words and expressions in the play that the characters use to speak about each other, and the accusations and insults they hurl at each other. (For example, Lomov in the end calls Chubukov an intriguer; but earlier, Chubukov has himself called Lomov a “malicious, doublefaced intriguer.” Again, Lomov begins by describing Natalya as “an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, well-educated.”)
The following are the words and expression of the characters and the accusations and insults:
Lomov says that Natalya is 'an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, well-educated.'
Natalya calls Lomov impudent and that he is not very neighbourly. She calls him a rascal and a monster. She also calls his aunt a backbiter.
Chubukov calls Lomov a pettifogger, a malicious double-faced intriguer, a villain and a scarecrow.
Chubukov calls Lomov's grandfather a drunkard, and his father a guzzling gambler.
Lomov says that Chubukov's mother was hump-backed. Lomov calls Chubukov an old rat, a Jesuit, a grabber.
(ii) Then think of five adjectives or adjectival expressions of your own to describe each character in the play.
Lomov: Weak, well-dressed, quarrelsome, hot-heated, rich.
Chubukov: large, hearty, rude, abusive, wealthy, billigerent, insincere.
Natalya: hot headed, practical, quarrelsome, impulsive, rude, impetuous.
(iii) Can you now imagine what these characters will quarrel about next?
Ans: Think about the answer and let me know your opinion in the comments section
COMPETENCY-BASED QUESTIONS
Short-questions
Q1.What kind of an impact do the arguments between Lomava & Natalya have on their relationships?
Q2. Describe the petty arguments between the characters.
Q3. What, according to you, is the turning point when Natalya accepts Lomov’s claims of owning the Oxen meadows?
Q4. When does Natalya accuse Lomov of being a landgrabber?
Q5. During the heated arguments between Lomov & Natalya the cordial relation between the neighbours was dampened and the proposal was forgotten. Justify this statement with instances from the text.
Q6. Why do you think Chubukov welcomed Lomov very cordially when Lomov visited his house?
Q7. 'At the end of the story good economic sense prevailed that led to the mariage between Natalya & Lomov.' Explain with reference to the story.
Q8. Why do you think Natalya Stepanova asked her father to call Lomov back when she heard that he had come with a proposal?
Q9. When Natalya comes to meet Lomov, she quotes her father’s words – “and papa said, “Go; there’s a merchant come for his goods.” What do you think Chubukov meant?
Long Questions (6 Marks) |
Q1. Arguments over insignificant things have led to disastrous results, especially between close family members and friends. Do you agree? Justify your answer with reference to the story.
Q2.The marriage proposal is a mockery of romance and marriage in the upper class. Justify your answer with reference to the story.
Q3. The pride in property, even the superiority of dogs, take priority over love and marriage. The characters lack patience, stop listening to each other, and then contradict each other. Do you think these quarrels will promise a happy life? What qualities would you consider for a well-matched couple? Justify your answer with reference to Lomov, Natalya & Chubukov.
Q4. Do you think all of us should know how to manage our anger? What happens when emotions are governed by materialistic ambition? Answer with reference to the story.
For Answer Key of the above Questions, Click Here
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