The Proposal by Anton Chekhov
Anton Chekhov’s The Proposal (1888) is a gem of a one-act play that combines humor, satire, and sharp social commentary, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. Set in rural Russia during the late 19th century, the play captures the absurdities of human behavior, especially among the landed gentry, with a lighthearted yet critical tone. Through its exaggerated characters and farcical situations, Chekhov exposes the triviality, pride, and materialism that often dominate human relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. What makes the play so engaging is its ability to make us laugh while subtly urging us to reflect on our own flaws and societal norms.
Historical and Authorial Context: Chekhov’s World
To fully appreciate The Proposal, it’s helpful to understand the world Chekhov was writing in. Anton Chekhov (1860–1904) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer known for his ability to capture the complexities of human nature with wit and subtlety. He lived during a time of great social and economic change in Russia, as the country was transitioning from a feudal society to a more modern one. The landed gentry, like the characters in The Proposal, were a class in decline, clinging to their status and property while often being out of touch with reality. Chekhov, who came from a modest background and worked as a doctor, had a unique perspective on the pretensions and hypocrisies of the upper classes. This perspective shines through in The Proposal, where he uses humor to critique the trivial concerns and shallow values of his characters.
The Absurdity of the Marriage Proposal
At its core, The Proposal is about the absurdity of a marriage proposal that goes hilariously wrong. Lomov, a nervous and hypochondriac landowner, visits his neighbor, Stepan Chubukov, to propose to his daughter, Natalya. But Lomov’s intentions are far from romantic. He’s more concerned with practical matters, like consolidating property and securing his social standing. This becomes clear when he says, “I’ve been thinking... I’m getting on in years, I must arrange my life.” This line perfectly captures the transactional nature of marriage in Chekhov’s society, where love often took a backseat to economic and social considerations.
What’s funny—and a little sad—is how quickly the proposal derails into petty arguments. Instead of focusing on the life-changing decision at hand, Lomov and Natalya get caught up in a series of ridiculous disputes. The first argument is over the ownership of the Oxen Meadows, a piece of land that both families claim. Natalya, unaware of Lomov’s intentions, immediately jumps into the fray, exclaiming, “It’s ours!... I can’t let that pass!” Her stubbornness and inability to let go of the argument, even when Lomov tries to steer the conversation back to his proposal, highlight her pride and materialism. Lomov, for his part, is equally stubborn, insisting on proving his point despite his physical discomfort and nervousness. This clash of egos sets the tone for the rest of the play.
Trivial Disputes and Human Folly
The second argument, over the superiority of their respective dogs, takes the absurdity to another level. Lomov claims that his dog, Guess, is better than Natalya’s dog, Squeezer, which leads to another heated exchange. Natalya fires back, “Squeezer is better than your Guess a hundred times over!” This argument, which seems utterly trivial to the audience, reflects the characters’ inability to prioritize what truly matters. Their pride and competitiveness overshadow the significance of the marriage proposal, turning what should be a meaningful moment into a farcical spectacle.
These disputes are not just funny—they’re also revealing. They show how petty concerns and personal pride can derail even the most important conversations. In this way, Chekhov’s play can be seen as a cross-reference to his other works, like The Cherry Orchard, where characters are similarly preoccupied with trivial matters while ignoring larger, more pressing issues. Both plays highlight the absurdity of human behavior and the ways in which people often sabotage their own happiness.
Chekhov’s Use of Humor and Irony
What makes The Proposal so delightful is Chekhov’s use of humor and irony. Lomov’s hypochondria, for instance, adds to the comedic tension. He repeatedly complains about his palpitations and nervousness, exclaiming, “I’m having palpitations... My heart’s bursting!” His physical frailty contrasts with his stubbornness in the arguments, creating a sense of absurdity. Similarly, Natalya’s quick temper and pride make her an equally comical figure. She oscillates between anger and affection depending on whether she remembers Lomov’s proposal or the argument at hand, showcasing her inability to focus on what really matters.
The play’s resolution is equally ironic. After fainting from the stress of the arguments, Lomov is revived, and Natalya, realizing his intention, hastily agrees to the proposal. But even in this moment of reconciliation, the characters can’t resist bickering. Chubukov, Natalya’s father, exclaims, “What a weight off my shoulders... Ouf!” His relief isn’t for his daughter’s happiness but for the social and economic benefits the marriage will bring. The final lines of the play, in which Natalya and Lomov resume their argument over the dogs, underscore the superficiality of their relationship and the futility of their union.
A Timeless Critique of Human Nature
In many ways, The Proposal feels timeless. While it’s rooted in the social and economic realities of 19th-century Russia, its themes—pride, pettiness, and the fragility of human communication—are universal. The play’s humor and irony make it easy to enjoy, but its deeper message lingers. Chekhov doesn’t just make us laugh; he makes us think about our own behavior and the ways in which we often prioritize trivial concerns over meaningful connections.
As Chekhov himself once said, “Any idiot can face a crisis; it’s the day-to-day living that wears you out.” In The Proposal, it’s the day-to-day pettiness and pride of the characters that ultimately wear down any possibility of genuine connection. This idea resonates not just in Chekhov’s other works but in our own lives as well. How often do we let small disagreements or personal pride get in the way of what really matters? The Proposal reminds us to step back, laugh at ourselves, and strive for better communication and understanding.
In conclusion, The Proposal is a masterful blend of humor and social critique. Through its exaggerated characters and farcical situations, Chekhov exposes the absurdities of human behavior and the societal norms that shape it. The play’s historical context adds depth to its satire, while its universal themes ensure its relevance even today. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or revisiting it, The Proposal is sure to leave you both amused and contemplative, a testament to Chekhov’s enduring genius.