The darling Free Essay Example, 1250 words

â€Å"The Darling† by Anton Chekhov Outline Introduction Style i. Realism ii. Soliloquy iii. Narrative Tone iv. Denouement Themes i. Female Disempowerment ii. Death and Disease iii. Women’s role in the society iv. Disillusionment and Failed Ideals Character Traits i. Olenka ii. Kukin iii. Plemyanniakov iv. Sasha: v. Vassily Andreitch Pustovalov Conclusion Introduction â€Å"The Darling†, a poignant and humorous short story by Anton Chekhov narrates the unfulfilling life of contemptible yet ludicrous character; Olenka Plemyannikov. Although Olenka is charming, sweet and impassive, her weakness is found in forming personal opinions which changes in her encounters with men. The story presents a woman’s pursuit for love characterized by constant heart-breaks, loneliness, and disappointment. Moreover, it portrays the Russian society’s way of life as it was in the Nineteenth century. This paper examines the styles, themes and traits of characters as portrayed in the short story. Style Realism The realism style features predominantly in Chekhov’s story. This realistic style provides the reader with ideas concerning unfavorable way of life rather than ways in which he or she can lead a productive life. "The Darling" portrays people’s way of life in a Russian village to a certain extent. We will write a custom essay sample on The darling or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now Chekhov focuses on the ordinary particulars of daily life as significant pointers of character, which gives the tale a fairly static tone, as relatively small events occurs in Olenkas life. In this sense, Olenka’s life is characterized by a sequence of marriages as well as deaths signifying the mundane activities or incidences in the society (Garnett 6). Soliloquy In the story, soliloquy is used in a number of instances, especially by the protagonist. Chekhov has used soliloquy to present the ideas of his characters as well as present their personal thoughts concerning her life and incidences that occurs around her. Olenka usually admires other people but keep the complements to her, because of the doubts that they may not be received with appreciation. This marks part of the soliloquy in the story. For instance, Olenka gives a soliloquy when she portrays her admiration towards Sasha, "You pretty pet! ... my precious! ... Such a fair little thing, and so clever. " (Chekhov 12). Narrative Tone Narrator’s tone in the story provides Chekhov’s perspective regarding the character of Olenka. The protagonist’s character tends to portray a woman solely dependent on her relationships with men in order to find meaning in life.