This book, first published in 1950, is a balanced examination of Chekhov's life and work, a critical analysis of his stories and plays set against the background of his life the Russia of the day. Using Chekhov's works, biographical details, and, more importantly, his many thousands of letters, this book presents a comprehensive critical study of the writer and the man.

Ronald Hingley

1. Taganrog 2. Early Years in Moscow 3. Fragments 4. New Time 5. Successes and Doubts 6. Sakhalin and Europe 7. Melikhovo 8. Chekhov's Review of Russia 9. The Moscow Art Theatre and Yalta 10. Chekhov's Approach to Fiction 11. Chekhov's Last Years: His Approach to Drama 12. Chekhov's Last Months