The Jeune Premier by Anton Chekhov

Name: The Jeune Premier
Author: Anton Chekhov

This story revolves around a young man who has just graduated from university and is struggling to find his place in society. He feels disconnected from the world around him and is uncertain about his future. The protagonist's relationships with others are strained, particularly with his family and friends. His interactions with them are often awkward and superficial, reflecting his own sense of disconnection. Throughout the story, the young man grapples with feelings of inadequacy and disillusionment. He feels trapped in a world that seems to be moving forward without him. The narrative explores themes of identity, alienation, and the search for meaning in life. The protagonist's struggles serve as a commentary on the challenges faced by young people navigating the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

By Anton Chekhov · First published 1888 · Genre: Drama, Comedy, Social Commentary · 2,232 words

First lines

Yevgeny Alexeyitch Podzharov, the jeune premier, a graceful, elegant young man with an oval face and little bags under his eyes, had come for the season to one of the southern towns of Russia, and tried at once to make the acquaintance of a few of the leading families of the place. "Yes, signor," he would often say, gracefully swinging his foot and displaying his red socks, "an artist ought to act upon the masses, both directly and indirectly; the first aim is attained by his work on the stage, the second by an acquaintance with the local inhabitants. On my honour, parole d'honneur, I don't understand why it is we actors avoid making acquaintance with local families. Why is it? To say nothing of dinners, name-day parties, feasts, soirées fixes, to say nothing of these entertainments, think of the moral influence we may have on society! Is it not agreeable to feel one has dropped a spark in some thick skull? The types one meets! The women! Mon Dieu, what women! they turn one's head! One penetrates into some huge merchant's house, into the sacred retreats, and picks out some fresh and rosy little peach -- it's heaven, parole d'honneur!"

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The Jeune Premier is listed on Textopian as a short story by Anton Chekhov, dated 1888 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Anton Chekhov
Date: 1888 CE
Language: English
Genres: Drama, Comedy, Social Commentary, Character Study, Romance
Length: 2,232 words
Structure: 1 section, 52 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Drama — The narrative revolves around interpersonal conflicts and emotional exchanges, typical of dramatic literature.
Comedy — The story employs humor and irony, particularly in the protagonist's pretentiousness and the absurdity of social situations.
Social Commentary — The work critiques societal norms and the behavior of individuals within social hierarchies.
Character Study — The focus is on the protagonist's personality, motivations, and moral dilemmas, providing insight into human behavior.