In Trouble by Anton Chekhov (1902)

Name: In Trouble
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a young woman who becomes involved with an older man and his family. The narrative explores the complexities of their relationships and the societal pressures that shape them. The protagonist's life is marked by her struggles to navigate these relationships, which are often fraught with tension and conflict. Her interactions with the older man and his family members reveal a deep-seated sense of disconnection and unhappiness. Throughout the story, Chekhov critiques the social conventions that govern the lives of women during this period. The narrative highlights the limited options available to them and the ways in which they are constrained by societal expectations. Ultimately, the story presents a bleak portrayal of life in rural Russia, where poverty, isolation, and desperation are pervasive.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1902 · Genre: Drama, Tragedy, Social Commentary · 2,973 words

First lines

Pyotr Semyonitch, the bank manager, together with the bookkeeper, his assistant, and two members of the board, were taken in the night to prison. The day after the upheaval the merchant Avdeyev, who was one of the committee of auditors, was sitting with his friends in the shop saying:

"So it is God's will, it seems. There is no escaping your fate. Here today we are eating caviar and tomorrow, for aught we know, it will be prison, beggary, or maybe death. Anything may happen. Take Pyotr Semyonitch, for instance."

What this Textopian page supports

In Trouble 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, Tragedy, Social Commentary, Realism, Satire
Length: 2,973 words
Structure: 1 section, 44 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Drama — The narrative focuses on the emotional and psychological struggles of the protagonist, highlighting themes of fate, societal judgment, and personal downfall.
Tragedy — The story depicts the tragic consequences of the protagonist's ignorance and the harsh realities of life, leading to his ultimate downfall.
Social Commentary — The work critiques societal norms, corruption, and the bureaucratic system, reflecting on the moral failures of individuals within society.
Realism — The portrayal of everyday life, the protagonist's mundane experiences, and the detailed depiction of social interactions align with the principles of realism.