An Inquiry by Anton Chekhov (1902)

Name: An Inquiry
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after being away for several years and becomes involved with a woman from a lower social class. The narrative explores themes of love, class differences, and the constraints of societal expectations.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1902 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Satire, Comedy · 1,069 words

First lines

It was midday. Voldyrev, a tall, thickset country gentleman with a cropped head and prominent eyes, took off his overcoat, mopped his brow with his silk handkerchief, and somewhat diffidently went into the government office. There they were scratching away.

"Where can I make an inquiry here? " he said, addressing a porter who was bringing a trayful of glasses from the furthest recesses of the office. "I have to make an inquiry here and to take a copy of a resolution of the Council."

What this Textopian page supports

An Inquiry 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: Literary Fiction, Satire, Comedy, Drama, Social Commentary
Length: 1,069 words
Structure: 1 section, 29 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

Work identity for An Inquiry by Anton Chekhov
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering An Inquiry?
How does this short story by Anton Chekhov fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores complex characters and social themes, focusing on the nuances of human behavior and societal interactions.
Satire — It critiques bureaucratic inefficiency and the absurdity of social interactions within a government office.
Comedy — The humorous portrayal of the protagonist's futile attempts to communicate with the clerk adds a comedic element to the narrative.
Drama — The tension between the protagonist and the bureaucratic system creates dramatic moments that highlight personal struggle.