Chekhov and Others

We will explore Anton Chekhov’s work on its own terms, in its cultural context, and in relation to the work of others, especially Anglophone writers who responded, directly or indirectly, to Chekhov and his work. Readings by Chekhov include selected stories (short and long), his four major plays, and Sakhalin Island, his study of the Russian penal colony.

There are no prerequisites.  Knowledge of Russian is not required; all readings in English.

Students who know Russian are encouraged to read Chekhov’s work in Russian.

The course will be comparative as it addresses Chekhov on his own and in relation to anglophone writers.

The course is open to undergraduates (CC, GS, BC) and graduates in GSAS and other schools. The attention to how Chekhov writes may interest students in the School of the Arts.