Mari D'Elle by Anton Chekhov (1900)

Name: Mari D'Elle
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a young woman who marries an older man for financial security and social status. She struggles with feelings of emptiness and disconnection from her husband, leading to a downward spiral of unhappiness and desperation. The narrative explores themes of love, marriage, and the societal pressures that can lead individuals to make choices they later regret.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1900 · Genre: Drama, Realism, Comedy · 2,525 words

First lines

It was a free night. Natalya Andreyevna Bronin (her married name was Nikitin), the opera singer, is lying in her bedroom, her whole being abandoned to repose. She lies, deliciously drowsy, thinking of her little daughter who lives somewhere far away with her grandmother or aunt. The child is more precious to her than the public, bouquets, notices in the papers, adorers. and she would be glad to think about her till morning. She is happy, at peace, and all she longs for is not to be prevented from lying undisturbed, dozing and dreaming of her little girl.

What this Textopian page supports

Mari D'Elle is listed on Textopian as a short story by Anton Chekhov, dated 1900 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: 1900 CE
Language: English
Genres: Drama, Realism, Comedy, Social Commentary, Character Study
Length: 2,525 words
Structure: 1 section, 50 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Drama — The work explores interpersonal conflicts and emotional struggles between characters, typical of dramatic literature.
Realism — The portrayal of everyday life and social issues reflects the realistic genre, focusing on the complexities of human relationships.
Comedy — The dialogue contains elements of humor and irony, particularly in the interactions between the singer and her husband.
Social Commentary — The text critiques social norms and economic issues, particularly regarding wealth and gender roles.