Find all the words and expressions in the play (The Proposal by Anton Chekov) that the characters use to speak about each other, and the accusations and insults they hurl at each other. (For example, Lomov in the end calls Chubukov an intriguer; but earlier, Chubukov has himself called Lomov a “malicious, doublefaced intriguer.” Again, Lomov begins by describing Natalya as “an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, well-educated.”) (ii) Then think of five adjectives or adjectival expressions of your own to describe each character in the play. (iii) Can you now imagine what these characters will quarrel about next?
Model Answer & Options
Source: Textbook(i) In The Proposal by Anton Chekhov, the characters frequently use exaggerated expressions and insults during their arguments. Lomov initially praises Natalya as “an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, well-educated,” but later calls her “a backbiter,” “an argumentative woman,” and “a dog-squeezer.” Chubukov calls Lomov a “malicious, double-faced intriguer,” “a turnip ghost,” “a blind hen,” and “a stuffed sausage.” Natalya insults Lomov by calling him a “pettifogger,” “a rascal,” and “a scarecrow.” These exchanges show how quickly their polite conversation turns into a comic quarrel.
(ii) Lomov: anxious, hypochondriac, formal, insecure, short-tempered Natalya: stubborn, quarrelsome, emotional, traditional, defensive Chubukov: dramatic, sarcastic, opportunistic, temperamental, proud
(iii) Given their nature, the characters may next quarrel about wedding expenses, number of guests, who gets to decide household matters, or even petty issues like which side of the family is more respectable. Their personalities suggest that no topic is too small to cause conflict.
Try a Related Quiz
Test your skills on a similar concept: Master the NCERT Glimpses of India Chapter with Our Practice Quiz.
Related Questions
- →
What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is he sincere when he later says, “And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son”? Find reasons for your answer from the play.
- →
Chubukov says of Natalya: “... as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad, she’s like a lovesick cat…” Would you agree? Find reasons for your answer.
- →
As adults, one important thing to learn is how to manage our temper. Some of us tend to get angry quickly, while others remain calm. Can you think of three ill effects that result from anger? Note them down. Suggest ways to avoid losing your temper in such situations. Are there any benefits from anger?