Subtext in the Four Plays of Anton Chekhov

Abstract

Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, an inimitable playwright as well as a short story writer became world famous though his output as a playwright was handful.  Chekhov is remarkable for many aspects of his plays and one of it is language.  The apparent simplicity of the language in the plays is elusive, because it is loaded with subtext.  Chekhov is a challenging author to read because his plays are open for multiple interpretations.  After repeated readings only the reader can understand the hidden beauty of his language and art.

           The present paper examines the subtext in the four major, full-length-plays of Anton Chekhov, which were written mostly in the last part of his life.  The plays are The Seagull, Uncle Vanya, Three Sisters and the last one The Cherry Orchard.  The sub-text of the plays helps us to understand the inner thoughts, emotions and feelings of the characters.  It also enriches the text.   Chekhov’s plays though outwardly appear pessimistic, in them there is a great optimism for future.