A Problem by Anton Chekhov

Questions and Answers

What perspective does the paternal uncle in the Treasury take on the case going to trial?

It should proceed to trial for justice.

Publicity would harm the family's reputation.

It should be kept confidential to avoid publicity. (correct)

The public should be informed for accountability.

How does the maternal uncle, Ivan Markovitch, rationalize Sasha's actions?

Education is the sole factor in a person's morality.

Great writers are often seen as perfect examples.

He believes societal norms judge individuals too harshly.

Youth has its rights and everyone makes mistakes. (correct)

What does the speaker imply about the honour of the army?

It only exists when members are perfect.

It suffers when guilty members are punished.

It is synonymous with following the law.

It is more important than personal honour. (correct)

What was the primary reason for the strict measures taken by the Uskov family?

To keep a family secret from leaking Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Sasha's background does Ivan Markovitch emphasize?

The lack of parental guidance. Signup and view all the answers

Which argument does Ivan Markovitch NOT make in Sasha's defense?

Sasha's errors were premeditated and calculated. Signup and view all the answers

What had Sasha Uskov done to cause the commotion in his family?

He cashed a false promissory note Signup and view all the answers

What was the main topic of discussion during the family council?

Whether to pay the bank or not Signup and view all the answers

What does the Colonel's comparison to the army emphasize?

Justice should also apply to the army's honour. Signup and view all the answers

What is Ivan Markovitch's view on punishment for Sasha?

He should be shown compassion despite his guilt. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Uskov family members in the drawing-room behave during the meeting?

They pretended to know nothing Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment did the colonel express regarding family honour?

That it can lead to misunderstandings Signup and view all the answers

How does the paternal uncle's view contrast with the Colonel's argument?

The paternal uncle values family reputation over justice. Signup and view all the answers

What was Ivan Markovitch's response to the colonel's concerns?

He protested that they understood the importance Signup and view all the answers

What emotional tone did the colonel convey during the discussion?

Exhaustion and bitterness Signup and view all the answers

What does the discussion within the family reveal about their values?

They place a high value on family honour Signup and view all the answers

What was Sasha's main concern while he was listening to the conversation outside the door?

The accusations against him Signup and view all the answers

What action had Sasha taken that he considered not a crime?

Discounting a forged note Signup and view all the answers

How did Sasha justify his use of another person's signature?

He thought it was a harmless formality. Signup and view all the answers

What emotion did Sasha feel while sitting in the study?

Ashamed Signup and view all the answers

How did Sasha feel about his moral character?

He thought he was supportive of the poor. Signup and view all the answers

How did Sasha react to his uncle, the Colonel, during the encounter?

He wanted to say something rude. Signup and view all the answers

What was Colonel's perspective on Sasha's potential to reform?

He had no faith in Sasha's reforming. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions did Sasha avoid doing?

Redeeming the IOU. Signup and view all the answers

What did the Colonel do while waiting for Sasha to come into the study?

He stood with one hand in his pocket. Signup and view all the answers

What was the main issue causing tension in the scene?

A disagreement over a loan of fifteen hundred rubles. Signup and view all the answers

What feelings did Sasha experience about his debts?

He considered them a common issue. Signup and view all the answers

What was the reaction of Ivan Markovitch during the conversation?

He spoke blandly and smoothly. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Colonel's wife attempt to persuade Sasha?

By begging him to defend himself. Signup and view all the answers

What was the Colonel's reaction after the decision was made regarding the case?

He became noticeably depressed. Signup and view all the answers

What did Sasha think of the reaction from his relatives over the financial issue?

He found it overwhelming and baffling. Signup and view all the answers

What did Sasha hear from the Colonel's voice during their disagreement?

A metallic voice. Signup and view all the answers

What was Ivan Markovitch's initial emotional reaction regarding his sister?

He expressed concern for her well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What condition did Ivan Markovitch place on Sasha's freedom?

He must repent and come with him to the country. Signup and view all the answers

How did Sasha feel after hearing that he was forgiven?

Relief and joy, as if a weight was lifted. Signup and view all the answers

What was Sasha's primary concern before going to celebrate with his friends?

Lack of money to participate in the celebration. Signup and view all the answers

What was Ivan Markovitch doing when Sasha asked for money?

Backing away in surprise. Signup and view all the answers

What did Sasha do to persuade his uncle to lend him money?

Became impatient and anxious. Signup and view all the answers

What was the setting of the conversation between Ivan Markovitch and Sasha?

Their family home. Signup and view all the answers

As Ivan Markovitch left the study, how did he initially appear?

Cheerful and joyful. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Setting and Context

The Uskov family's secret is being intensely guarded, with strict measures taken to prevent information leakage.
Some servants are sent away, while others are confined to the kitchen.
The atmosphere is tense due to Sasha's actions leading to a family council.

Sasha Uskov

A 25-year-old man at the center of the controversy, involved in cashing a false promissory note.
Seeks to make a candid explanation while waiting on the other side of a door, indicating a desire for redemption.

Family Council Meeting

The meeting involves Sasha’s uncles and Ivan Markovitch debating how to handle the scandal.
The council deliberates on whether to pay off the debt to protect family honor or let it go to trial.

Debate on Family Honor

The Colonel stresses that family honor is crucial and warns against civic cowardice in shielding Sasha from consequences.
Ivan Markovitch argues for compassion and understanding of Sasha's youthful indiscretions, suggesting he deserves sympathy due to his difficult upbringing.

Ethical Dilemmas

Uncles find it challenging to decide how to proceed, highlighting the conflicts between personal values and societal expectations.
The Colonel equates preserving family honor with condemning misdeeds, drawing parallels to military discipline.

Sasha's Inner Conflict

Sasha feels wronged by being labeled a criminal; he grapples with guilt but also rationalizes his actions as common among his peers.
He recalls that other young men commit similar acts, questioning the severity of the consequences he faces.

The Resolution

After extensive discussion, the family agrees to pay Sasha’s debt but under the condition that he reforms and works diligently to regain their trust.
The decision is met with a mix of relief and sadness among the uncles, as it stirs memories of Sasha’s deceased mother.

Aftermath and Future Implications

Sasha experiences a sudden rush of joy upon being forgiven, feeling liberated but quickly recalls his financial shortcomings.
He seeks a loan from Ivan Markovitch, showing a lack of maturity and awareness of his responsibilities.

Themes and Motifs

The story explores themes of family loyalty, the complexity of moral decisions, and the pressures of societal expectations.
It highlights the juxtaposition between youthful indiscretion and the harsh realities of adult consequences.

Key Character Dynamics

The Colonel represents strict traditional values, while Ivan Markovitch embodies compassion and understanding towards Sasha's youth.
Sasha oscillates between wanting acceptance and confronting his guilt, revealing the character's internal struggles.

Conclusion

The story concludes on an ambiguous note, reflecting on the cyclical nature of mistakes, forgiveness, and the challenges of personal growth within a familial framework.

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Description

Test your understanding of Anton Chekhov's short story 'A Problem'. This quiz will cover key themes, character motivations, and important plot points. Dive into the intricacies of the Uskovs' family's secret and explore the author's narrative style.