A Malefactor by Anton Chekhov (1902)

Name: A Malefactor
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after being released from prison for a crime he did not commit. He seeks revenge against the people who wronged him but ultimately finds redemption through his relationships with others. The narrative explores themes of guilt, shame, and the complexities of human nature. The protagonist's journey is marked by a struggle between his desire for justice and his need for forgiveness. Throughout the story, Chekhov employs his characteristic subtlety and nuance to create a richly textured portrayal of small-town life in Russia during the late 19th century. The character development is notable, with the protagonist undergoing significant growth as he navigates his circumstances. His relationships with others serve as a catalyst for this transformation. Ultimately, the story presents a thought-provoking exploration of morality and the human condition.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1902 · Genre: Drama, Satire, Realism · 1,847 words

First lines

An exceedingly lean little peasant, in a striped hempen shirt and patched drawers, stands facing the investigating magistrate. His face overgrown with hair and pitted with smallpox, and his eyes scarcely visible under thick, overhanging eyebrows have an expression of sullen moroseness. On his head there is a perfect mop of tangled, unkempt hair, which gives him an even more spider-like air of moroseness. He is barefooted.

What this Textopian page supports

A Malefactor is listed on Textopian as a short story by Anton Chekhov, dated 1902 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Anton Chekhov
Date: 1902 CE
Language: English
Genres: Drama, Satire, Realism, Tragedy, Comedy
Length: 1,847 words
Structure: 1 section, 57 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genres

Drama — The work features a dialogue-driven narrative that explores the conflict between a peasant and an authority figure, highlighting themes of social injustice and human folly.
Satire — The text critiques societal norms and the legal system through the absurdity of the protagonist's situation and his interactions with the magistrate.
Realism — The portrayal of the peasant's life and the bureaucratic process reflects a realistic depiction of social conditions and human behavior.
Tragedy — The protagonist's plight and the inevitable consequences of his actions evoke a sense of tragedy stemming from misunderstanding and societal neglect.