Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - The Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov

"The Cherry Orchard" by Anton Chekhov is a classic play that revolves around the lives of aristocrats and their servants. It is set in Russia in the early 20th century, a time when the country was undergoing significant political and social changes. The play mainly focuses on the lives of the Ranevsky family, who are struggling to come to terms with the possibility of losing their beloved cherry orchard.

The play opens with the arrival of Lyubov Andreyevna Ranevskaya, the matriarch of the Ranevsky family, and her daughter Anya, who have returned to the family estate after a five-year absence. They are greeted by their old friends and servants, who are all eager to see them. The opening scene sets the stage for the rest of the play, as the characters are introduced, and the setting is established.

However, it soon becomes apparent that the Ranevsky family is in deep financial trouble and that they might lose their estate and cherry orchard to the bank. This realization sets off a chain of events that will change the lives of the characters forever.

Despite the looming threat of losing their home, the family members are unable to come up with a solution. Lyubov Andreyevna is in denial and refuses to face the reality of their situation. Her brother, Leonid Andreyevich Gayev, is also unable to help, as he is more concerned with the past than the present. The family's financial advisor, Lopakhin, suggests that they cut down the cherry orchard and build holiday homes, which would help them pay off their debts. However, the family members are too attached to their orchard and cannot bear the thought of losing it.

As the play progresses, the family members are forced to confront their problems. Lyubov Andreyevna is forced to sell her personal belongings to raise money, but it is not enough. Her lover, the handsome and charming Yasha, also proves to be a disappointment, as he only cares about himself. In the meantime, Lopakhin buys the estate and the cherry orchard, cuts down the trees, and turns it into a profitable holiday resort.

The characters' actions are influenced by the social and political changes taking place in Russia during the time the play is set. The aristocrats are struggling to maintain their way of life, while the servants are beginning to demand more rights and freedoms. This tension is evident throughout the play, as the characters struggle to come to terms with their changing world.

The climax of the play occurs during a ball that the family has organized in a last-ditch attempt to save their home. The party is a disaster, as the family members are forced to confront their emotions and the harsh reality of their situation. Lyubov Andreyevna leaves the party early, unable to face the truth. The play ends with the sound of the cherry orchard being chopped down, symbolizing the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.

Chekhov's use of humor and tragedy creates a unique style that is evident throughout the play. The characters' flaws and weaknesses are exposed, and their inability to change leads to their downfall. The play's message is clear: change is inevitable, and it is up to us to face it head-on.

In conclusion, "The Cherry Orchard" by Anton Chekhov is a poignant and powerful play that explores the themes of change, loss, and the passing of time. The play's characters grapple with their changing world and are unable to come to terms with their situation, leading to their downfall. The play is a classic example of Chekhov's unique style, which combines humor and tragedy to create a truly unforgettable experience. The play's message is universal, reminding us that change is a part of life, and it is up to us to adapt and embrace it.