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Questions and Answers
What is the occupation of Ivan Vassiliyevich Lomov?
What is the main theme of The Proposal?
What is Natalya's attitude towards Lomov's proposal?
Who is Chubukov in the play?
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When was The Proposal written?
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Study Notes
Plot Summary
- The Proposal is a one-act play written by Anton Chekhov in 1890
- The story revolves around a young man named Ivan Vassiliyevich Lomov, who comes to propose to his neighbor, Natalya Stepanovna Chubukova
- Lomov is a wealthy landowner who is looking for a wife to manage his estate
Characters
- Ivan Vassiliyevich Lomov: The protagonist, a wealthy landowner who comes to propose to Natalya
- Natalya Stepanovna Chubukova: The object of Lomov's affections, a strong-willed woman who is not impressed by Lomov's attempts to woo her
- Chubukov: Natalya's father, who is eager to see his daughter married off to Lomov
Themes
- The play explores the theme of social class and marriage in 19th-century Russia
- It satirizes the social conventions of the time, particularly the practice of arranged marriages for financial gain
- The play also touches on the theme of love vs. convenience, as Lomov's motivations for proposing to Natalya are more practical than romantic
Symbolism
- Lomov's frequent illness and hypochondria can be seen as a symbol of his own emotional and psychological fragility
- The argument over the Oxen Meadows serves as a symbol for the petty squabbles and disagreements that can arise in relationships
Style and Structure
- The play is characterized by its witty dialogue and comedic tone
- Chekhov's use of satire and irony adds to the play's humor and social commentary
- The one-act structure of the play allows for a concise and focused exploration of the themes and characters
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Description
Test your knowledge of Anton Chekhov's one-act play, The Proposal. Learn about the characters, themes, and symbolism in this satirical play about marriage and social class in 19th-century Russia.
