The Proposal – Anton Chekhov
Introduction
Anton Chekhov, a master of short stories and plays, is known for his sharp humor and deep understanding of people. "The Proposal" is a one-act play that uses comedy to show how pride and silly arguments can affect relationships. This play is included in the curriculum to help students explore family life, social customs, and the importance of good communication.
Short Summary
Ivan Lomov visits his neighbor, Natalya, to propose marriage. Instead of a smooth proposal, they end up arguing about land and dogs. In the end, the proposal is accepted, but the quarrels never really stop.
Detailed Summary
Ivan Lomov, a nervous landowner, goes to his neighbor Stepan Chubukov’s house to ask for the hand of Chubukov’s daughter, Natalya. Chubukov is happy about the idea and quickly calls Natalya, hoping for a good match. But what should be a simple marriage proposal soon turns into a funny argument about a small piece of land called Oxen Meadows. Both Lomov and Natalya are stubborn and proud, and neither wants to give in. Their quarrel grows louder, and Chubukov joins in, making things even more chaotic.
After the land argument cools down, Lomov tries again to propose, but another fight starts—this time about whose dog is better. The characters get more and more upset, and the original reason for Lomov’s visit is almost forgotten. The play’s humor comes from these silly disputes, which show how small issues can ruin important moments. Chekhov uses these scenes to highlight the funny side of human nature and the problems caused by pride and poor communication.
Finally, Chubukov manages to calm everyone down just enough for Lomov to propose to Natalya. She accepts, but the peace does not last long. The couple quickly starts arguing again, showing that their future will be full of the same silly fights. The play ends with laughter and a lesson about the importance of understanding and compromise in relationships. The story is lively, easy to read, and teaches about the value of patience and good communication.
Narrative Structure Breakdown
- Exposition: Lomov visits Chubukov’s house to propose to Natalya.
- Rising Action: Arguments break out over land and dogs.
- Climax: The proposal is almost forgotten in the chaos.
- Falling Action: Chubukov helps settle things and the proposal is accepted.
- Resolution: The couple keeps arguing, showing their true nature.
Themes & Meanings
- Marriage and Social Status: Marriage is shown as a social deal, not just about love.
- Pride and Absurdity: Small arguments can ruin big moments.
- Satire: The play makes fun of social customs and stubbornness.
- Communication: Poor communication leads to endless quarrels.
Character Sketches
- Ivan Lomov: A nervous, proud landowner who wants to get married but argues a lot. He is easily upset and stubborn.
- Natalya Stepanovna: Quick-tempered and stubborn, she argues even when being proposed to. She is passionate and strong-willed.
- Stepan Chubukov: Natalya’s father, who wants the marriage but also joins the arguments. He is cheerful but gets caught up in the quarrels.
Important Vocabulary
- Farce: A funny play with silly situations and exaggerated actions.
- Proposal: An offer of marriage.
- Argument: A fight with words, often about small things.
- Pride: Feeling very important or better than others.
- Satire: Using humor to show the silly side of people or society.
Exam-Style Q&A
-
Q:
Why does Lomov visit Natalya’s house?
A: To propose marriage to her. -
Q:
What do Lomov and Natalya argue about?
A: They argue about land and whose dog is better. -
Q:
How does the play end?
A: The proposal is accepted, but the couple keeps arguing. -
Q:
What is the main theme of the play?
A: The silliness of pride and social customs in marriage. -
Q:
What lesson can students learn from this play?
A: The importance of patience, understanding, and good communication in relationships.
PDF Download Note
Click print in your browser and choose ‘Save as PDF’ to download this summary.