Staging Existence: Chekhov's Tetralogy

Anton Chekhov is a renowned author and playwright, but his intellectual and philosophical theories are often overlooked. Svetlana Evdokimova's book, Staging Existence, explores the connections between Chekhov's unstated philosophy and his artistic production, demonstrating how his four major plays constitute a cycle. Evdokimov's research provides insight into Chekhov's oeuvre and the writer himself.

Format: Hardback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: University of Wisconsin Press

Anton Chekhov, a renowned author and playwright, has left an indelible mark on the world of literature, with his works continuing to be performed on stages across the globe century after his passing. While his literary prowess is widely acknowledged, his intellectual and philosophical theories have received less attention. Chekhov's disinterest in crafting a "unified idea," a prevalent concept among Russian intellectuals of his era, and his aversion to the maximalism prevalent in contemporary Russian culture and society set him apart from his fellow writers. Consequently, his contribution to intellectual and philosophical discourse has been somewhat obscured, both during his lifetime and by subsequent scholars.

In an effort to bridge this gap in Chekhov scholarship, Svetlana Evdokimova delves into the profound connections between Chekhov's unstated philosophy and his artistic production. Through her book, "Staging Existence: Chekhov's Philosophical Drama," Evdokimova presents a groundbreaking reappraisal of this critical playwright in Russian intellectual history. By examining Chekhov's four major plays, namely "The Cherry Orchard," "Three Sisters," "The Seagull," and "Uncle Vanya," as a cohesive cycle, Evdokimova offers a fresh perspective on his oeuvre. Her meticulous research into Chekhov's engagement with contemporary philosophy provides invaluable insight into both Chekhov's works and the writer himself.

In "Staging Existence," Evdokimova explores the themes of existence, morality, and human nature that permeate Chekhov's plays. She argues that these plays constitute a philosophical cycle, each piece contributing to a larger understanding of the human condition. Through her analysis, Evdokimova reveals how Chekhov's philosophical ideas influenced his artistic choices, shaping the characters, plots, and themes of his plays.

One of the key themes that Evdokimova explores is the concept of existence. Chekhov's characters often grapple with the question of what it means to exist in the world, and how to find meaning and purpose in their lives. Evdokimova argues that Chekhov's philosophical ideas about the nature of existence, particularly his belief in the interconnectedness of all things, influenced his portrayal of characters who are struggling to find their place in the world.

Another theme that Evdokimova examines is morality. Chekhov's plays are filled with complex moral dilemmas, and Evdokimova argues that his philosophical ideas about the nature of morality influenced his portrayal of characters who are navigating ethical challenges. She highlights how Chekhov's characters often struggle with the tension between their desires and their moral obligations, and how their choices ultimately shape their fate.

Evdokimova also explores the concept of human nature in Chekhov's plays. She argues that Chekhov's philosophical ideas about the nature of human beings, particularly their vulnerability and imperfections, influenced his portrayal of characters who are flawed and complex. She highlights how Chekhov's characters often exhibit a mixture of good and bad qualities, and how their interactions with others reveal their true nature.

Through her analysis, Evdokimova demonstrates how Chekhov's unstated philosophy provides a deeper understanding of his artistic production. She sheds light on the philosophical underpinnings of his characters, plots, and themes, and how they contribute to a broader understanding of the human condition. "Staging Existence" is a valuable addition to Chekhov scholarship, offering a fresh perspective on this critical playwright and his contribution to intellectual and philosophical discourse.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780299344801