The Dependents by Anton Chekhov

Name: The Dependents
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a middle-aged man who has been living with his mother and sister for years. He is struggling to make ends meet and feels suffocated by their constant demands on him. The family's financial situation worsens, leading to tension and conflict among the members. As the story progresses, it becomes clear that the man's relationships with his mother and sister are strained due to his inability to provide for them. He is desperate to escape this situation but feels trapped by his responsibilities towards them. The narrative explores themes of poverty, family dynamics, and the struggles of everyday life in late 19th-century Russia. The story ultimately ends on a bleak note, with no resolution or hope for improvement in sight.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1887 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Tragedy, Social Commentary · 2,937 words

First lines

Mihail Petrovitch Zotov, a decrepit and solitary old man of seventy, belonging to the artisan class, was awakened by the cold and the aching in his old limbs. It was dark in his room, but the little lamp before the icon was no longer burning. Zotov raised the curtain and looked out of the window. The clouds that shrouded the sky were beginning to show white here and there, and the air was becoming transparent, so it must have been nearly five, not more.

What this Textopian page supports

The Dependents is listed on Textopian as a short story by Anton Chekhov, dated 1887 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: 1887 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Tragedy, Social Commentary, Realism, Psychological Fiction
Length: 2,937 words
Structure: 1 section, 53 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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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 deep themes of existentialism, poverty, and the human condition through character-driven narrative.
Tragedy — The protagonist's struggles and ultimate fate reflect tragic elements, highlighting despair and the inevitability of suffering.
Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and the treatment of the elderly and dependents, revealing social injustices.
Realism — The depiction of everyday life and the mundane existence of the protagonist aligns with realistic literary traditions.