Expression of Chekhov’s Unique Dramatic Skills in the Cherry Orchard

Abstract

The Cherry Orchard has often been described as Anton Chekhov’s masterpiece. It is not only his last play, but also his last work. Written while he was dying and with great difficulty. The Cherry Orchard is the most farcical of Chekhov’s full-length works, and so it was intended. The subject matter and themes, drawn from contemporary Russian life, show how daily routine gradually shrinks the spirit and drains the will. The characters long for happiness and wish to live useful lives, but they are thwarted by circumstances and their own personalities. Chekhov’s realism is seen in his dramatic form, for the plays have an air of aimlessness which matches that of characters’ lives. All violent deeds and emotional climaxes occur offstage. Chekhov treats all of his characters with tolerance and passion, but also makes them both sympathetic and ridiculous. Therefore, the pathetic and comic are mingled, often simultaneously. Chekhov also makes considerable use of symbolism - orchard in the Cherry Orchard itself is a symbol of the Old Russia and the aristocracy.