The Bear is one of Chekhov’s lesser-known plays performed in 1888. The three main characters in this play create humour with their absurd behaviour and dialogues. Their emotions are exaggerated and change unexpectedly. The play is also suggestive of the emancipation of women.
The Bear is one of Chekhov’s lesser-known plays performed in 1888. The three main characters
in this play create humour with their absurd behavior and dialogues. Their emotions are
exaggerated and change unexpectedly. The play is also suggestive of the emancipation of
women.
The Plot
Elena Ivanovna Popova is a landowning widow mourning the death of her husband who had
died seven months ago. Her aged footman, Luka, coaxes her to stop being buried inside the
four walls and to enjoy life. She refuses firmly as she intends to prove her true love and
faithfulness to her husband, in spite of him being unfaithful to her. He reminds her that she is still
beautiful. The bell announces the entry of Smirnov, a person who comes to collect the money
due to him by her husband. Popova refuses to see him but without courtesy, he enters the
dining room. As she does not have spare cash she promises to pay the day after tomorrow. She
also says her ‘state of mind’ prevents giving money matters her concern. Smirnov refuses to
leave. In the argument that follows Popova calls Smirnov a bear for his boorish manners.
Smirnov challenges her to defend her feminine rights- in the form of a duel. She accepts.
Surprised by her boldness he begins to fall in love with her which he is forced to admit. Even
then she is not willing to back down from the challenge. The argument that follows ends up in
Smirnov kissing Popova passionately. The play ends with Luka and some workers armed with
household weapons entering, intending to break up the duel.
Development of the Plot
The conversation between Popova and Luka reveals that he is trying to convince her that she should
enjoy life while her beauty lasts. He further highlights the futility of mourning for her dead husband
for such a long time.
Despite her late husband’s unfaithfulness to her she, vows to prove her love by mourning for him till
her death.
She is irritated by Luka announcing the arrival of Smirnov to whom her dead husband owes 1200
rubles. He asks for cash to pay the interest on a mortgage. Popova’s peace is disturbed.
She is willing to pay Smirnov only after her steward comes back the day after tomorrow. But Smirnov
reiterates that he needs the money desperately.
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