The Horse-Stealers by Anton Chekhov

Name: The Horse-Stealers
Author: Anton Chekhov

The story revolves around a group of horse thieves who are caught and brought to justice. The narrative explores the themes of morality, guilt, and redemption through the characters' experiences.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1887 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary · 7,971 words

First lines

A hospital assistant, called Yergunov, an empty-headed fellow, known throughout the district as a great braggart and drunkard, was returning one evening in Christmas week from the hamlet of Ryepino, where he had been to make some purchases for the hospital. That he might get home in good time and not be late, the doctor had lent him his very best horse.

At first it had been a still day, but at eight o'clock a violent snowstorm came on, and when he was only about four miles from home Yergunov completely lost his way.

What this Textopian page supports

The Horse-Stealers 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, Drama, Social Commentary, Realism, Psychological Fiction
Length: 7,971 words
Structure: 1 section, 133 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for The Horse-Stealers by Anton Chekhov
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Horse-Stealers?
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 complex characters and themes, focusing on human experiences and societal issues.
Drama — The narrative contains intense interpersonal conflicts and emotional exchanges, characteristic of dramatic storytelling.
Social Commentary — The story critiques social hierarchies, morality, and the struggles of the lower class.
Realism — The depiction of everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people aligns with the principles of realism.