Ivan Matveyitch by Anton Chekhov

Name: Ivan Matveyitch
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a middle-aged man who has been living with his family for many years. He is struggling to come to terms with the fact that he is no longer young and that his life is slowly slipping away from him. As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that Ivan Matveyitch's sense of purpose and identity are tied to his role as a father and husband. However, this sense of responsibility weighs heavily on him, and he feels trapped by the expectations placed upon him. The story explores themes of middle age, family dynamics, and the human search for meaning in life. Through Ivan Matveyitch's character, Chekhov examines the complexities of adult relationships and the ways in which people cope with the challenges of growing older. Ultimately, the narrative suggests that Ivan Matveyitch is struggling to find a sense of fulfillment and purpose in his life, and that this struggle is a universal human experience.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1888 · Genre: Drama, Comedy, Social Commentary · 2,597 words

First lines

Between five and six in the evening. A fairly well-known man of learning -- we will call him simply the man of learning -- is sitting in his study nervously biting his nails.

"It's positively revolting," he says, continually looking at his watch. "It shows the utmost disrespect for another man's time and work. In England such a person would not earn a farthing, he would die of hunger. You wait a minute, when you do come."

What this Textopian page supports

Ivan Matveyitch is listed on Textopian as a short story by Anton Chekhov, dated 1888 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: 1888 CE
Language: English
Genres: Drama, Comedy, Social Commentary, Slice of Life, Character Study
Length: 2,597 words
Structure: 1 section, 66 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Drama — The work focuses on interpersonal relationships and emotional conflicts between characters, typical of dramatic literature.
Comedy — The dialogue and situations contain elements of humor, particularly in the absurdity of the characters' interactions.
Social Commentary — The narrative critiques social norms and the dynamics of power in professional relationships.
Slice of Life — The story captures everyday moments and the mundane aspects of life, reflecting the characters' routines and struggles.