This course studies the life and work of Anton Chekhov, locating him and his œuvre in the cultural and intellectual history of Russia at a time of enormous change. Chekhov, the grandson of a serf, became perhaps the greatest master of the short story and the author of innovative drama that re-shaped the theatrical world. We will examine in some detail a representative sample of his prose and drama, and will discuss in more general terms a large number of his most significant works, while also looking at the radical transformation of Russian society which helped produce his masterpieces and which Chekhov’s works brilliantly described.

Course Requirements:

Two papers, three online writing assignments.

Intended Audience:

The course is designed to be accessible to those with no prior knowledge of Russian literature; taught in English.