Polinka by Anton Chekhov (1888)

Name: Polinka
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a young woman who marries an older man for financial security and to escape her impoverished circumstances. She struggles with feelings of guilt and resentment towards her husband's infidelity and her own compromised values. The narrative explores themes of morality, class, and the constraints placed on women in society during that time period.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1888 · Genre: Drama, Realism, Romance · 2,207 words

First lines

It is one o'clock in the afternoon. Shopping is at its height at the Nouveautés de Paris, a drapery establishment in one of the Arcades. There is a monotonous hum of shopmen's voices, the hum one hears at school when the teacher sets the boys to learn something by heart. This regular sound is not interrupted by the laughter of lady customers nor the slam of the glass door, nor the scurrying of the boys.

Polinka, a thin fair little person whose mother is the head of a dressmaking establishment, is standing in the middle of the shop looking about for someone. A dark-browed boy runs up to her and asks, looking at her very gravely:

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Polinka 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, Realism, Romance, Social Commentary, Slice of Life
Length: 2,207 words
Structure: 1 section, 66 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Drama — The work explores emotional conflicts and interpersonal relationships, focusing on the characters' struggles and desires.
Realism — The narrative presents a realistic portrayal of everyday life and social dynamics in a shop setting.
Romance — The central theme revolves around unrequited love and romantic tension between the characters.
Social Commentary — The text critiques social class distinctions and the perceptions of love and marriage within different societal strata.