The Proposal
1. Author : Anton Chekhov (Russian playwright, master of satire & comedy)
2. Main Characters
a) Ivan Lomov – Wealthy landowner, hypochondriac, nervous , poor health
b) Stepan Chubukov – Natalya’s father, quarrelsome, greedy
c) Natalya Stepanovna – Chubukov’s daughter, argumentative, strong-willed , self - centered
3. Plot Overview
Lomov visits Chubukov’s house to propose marriage to Natalya.
Instead of proposing, they argue over Oxen Meadows (land dispute).
Later, they quarrel about whose dog is better (Guess vs. Squeezer).
Chubukov intervenes, but also joins the quarrels,supporting his daughter
Finally, Lomov proposes, and Natalya accepts—yet the quarrels continue.
4. Themes
Marriage as a social contract (not love-based, but property/status driven)
Trivial quarrels overshadow serious matters
Satire on human greed, pride, and foolishness
Irony – Proposal turns into endless arguments
5. Tone & Style
Farcical comedy
Satirical portrayal of human behavior
Exaggerated arguments for humor
6. Message
Human beings often let ego and trivial issues ruin important moments.
Marriage in society is often treated as a deal, not an emotional bond.
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