Class 10 English Chapter 11 Question Answer | The Proposal
Welcome to HSLC Guru. In this article, we provide a complete set of questions and answers for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 11 – The Proposal by Anton Chekhov. This chapter is an important part of the ASSEB (Assam State Board of Secondary Education) Class 10 English syllabus. “The Proposal” is a one-act play (farce) that satirises the absurdity of marriage driven by material interests rather than genuine love. Here you will find the summary, textbook solutions (Thinking about the Text), character sketches, additional short and long answer questions, MCQs, extract-based questions, and value-based questions to help you prepare thoroughly for your HSLC examination.
Summary of The Proposal
“The Proposal” is a one-act farce written by the celebrated Russian playwright Anton Chekhov. The play is set in the drawing room of Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov, a wealthy Russian landowner. The three characters in the play are Chubukov, his twenty-five-year-old daughter Natalya Stepanovna, and their neighbour Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov, a thirty-five-year-old unmarried landowner.
The play begins with Lomov arriving at Chubukov’s house, dressed in his formal evening clothes. Chubukov is surprised to see him so well-dressed and initially suspects that Lomov has come to borrow money. However, when Lomov nervously reveals that he has come to ask for Natalya’s hand in marriage, Chubukov is overjoyed. He immediately rushes inside to call his daughter, leaving Lomov alone in the room.
Lomov, left alone, reveals his true state of mind. He is extremely nervous and suffers from palpitations, insomnia, and a twitching eyelid. He is not proposing out of love but because he has reached a “critical age” of thirty-five and needs a settled, regular life. He considers Natalya to be a good housekeeper, not bad-looking, and well-educated — making her a suitable match.
When Natalya enters, she is surprised to see Lomov but welcomes him warmly. She had been shelling peas for drying. Lomov begins speaking about how the two families have always been good neighbours, and how his land borders theirs. He mentions Oxen Meadows, a piece of land that lies between his Birchwoods and Chubukov’s Burnt Marsh. Instead of proposing, he accidentally triggers a heated argument. Natalya insists that the Oxen Meadows belong to her family and have been theirs for nearly three hundred years. Lomov argues that his aunt’s grandmother gave the meadows to Natalya’s great-grandfather’s peasants temporarily for making bricks, and that the land actually belongs to him.
The argument escalates rapidly. Both Lomov and Natalya become extremely agitated. Chubukov enters and, instead of calming the situation, joins in the quarrel on his daughter’s side. He insults Lomov and his family, calling them “lunatics” and “grabbers.” Lomov retaliates by insulting Chubukov’s family. The argument becomes so heated that Lomov, who suffers from heart palpitations, feels unwell and storms out of the house.
After Lomov leaves, Chubukov reveals to Natalya that Lomov had actually come to propose marriage to her. Natalya is shocked and immediately becomes desperate. She starts wailing and begs her father to bring Lomov back at once. She cries, “Bring him back! Bring him back!” Chubukov reluctantly goes to fetch Lomov.
When Lomov returns, Natalya tries to restart the conversation, but instead of proposing, Lomov begins boasting about his hunting dog, Guess. Natalya retorts that her dog, Squeezer, is far superior. A second fierce argument breaks out over whose dog is the better hunter. Lomov claims he paid 125 roubles for Guess, while Natalya insists Squeezer is worth more. Lomov says Squeezer is overshot (has a deformed jaw), while Natalya says Guess is old and ugly. Chubukov again joins the argument, and the shouting intensifies.
Amid all this chaos, Lomov suddenly collapses due to his palpitations. Natalya and Chubukov think he is dead. Natalya panics and screams. However, Lomov soon regains consciousness. Chubukov, not wanting to miss the opportunity, quickly places Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s and blesses them, saying, “She’s willing! Well? Kiss and — the devil take you both!” The couple is now engaged, but even as champagne is being brought out to celebrate, Lomov and Natalya resume their argument about Squeezer and Guess. Chubukov sighs and calls for champagne as the play ends with the couple quarrelling once again.
The play is a brilliant satire on the institution of marriage, human stubbornness, and the absurdity of petty quarrels. Chekhov uses humour and exaggeration to show how trivial matters such as land ownership and dogs can overshadow the most important decisions in life. The play also highlights the transactional nature of marriage in nineteenth-century Russian society, where economic interests mattered more than genuine love or compatibility.
Character Sketches
Character Sketch of Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov
Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov is a thirty-five-year-old unmarried landowner and the protagonist of the play. He is a neighbour of the Chubukovs. Lomov is a nervous and anxious man who suffers from chronic palpitations, insomnia, and a twitching eyelid. His lips tremble and his right side goes numb whenever he gets excited or upset. He is a hypochondriac who is constantly worried about his health.
Lomov is not driven by love when he decides to propose to Natalya. He is motivated by practical considerations — he has reached a “critical age,” he needs someone to look after him, and he wants a settled, regular life. He considers Natalya suitable because she is an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, and well-educated. This reveals his materialistic and calculating nature when it comes to marriage.
Despite his intention to propose, Lomov is extremely quarrelsome and proud. He is so attached to his property and possessions that he cannot let go of any argument, even when it threatens to ruin his proposal. He argues fiercely over the Oxen Meadows and his dog Guess. He insults Chubukov’s family by calling his grandfather a “drunkard” and his aunt a “backbiter.” His stubbornness and pride are his biggest weaknesses. He would rather lose the woman he wants to marry than concede a point in an argument.
Lomov is also somewhat cowardly and indecisive. He trembles before proposing, comparing the experience to facing an examination. He talks himself into the marriage with practical reasons rather than feelings. Overall, Lomov represents the absurdity of a person who lets trivial matters override important life decisions.
Character Sketch of Natalya Stepanovna
Natalya Stepanovna is a twenty-five-year-old woman, the only daughter of Stepan Chubukov. She is described by Lomov as an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, and well-educated. When Lomov visits, she is busy shelling peas, which shows her industrious nature.
Natalya is extremely quarrelsome and stubborn. She refuses to back down from any argument. When Lomov mentions the Oxen Meadows, she immediately claims ownership and argues passionately, insisting that the meadows have been her family’s property for nearly three hundred years. She also fiercely defends her dog Squeezer, claiming it is far superior to Lomov’s Guess.
However, Natalya is also practical and eager to marry. The moment she learns from her father that Lomov had come to propose, she completely changes her attitude. She begins wailing, crying, and desperately begging her father to bring Lomov back. This sudden transformation shows that she values the prospect of marriage and does not want to lose the opportunity. She is described by her father as being “in love like a lovesick cat,” though her actions suggest she is more attracted to the idea of marriage and the social status it brings rather than to Lomov as a person.
Natalya is proud and possessive. She takes immense pride in her family’s possessions and reputation. She cannot tolerate anyone claiming what she believes belongs to her family. Despite wanting to marry Lomov, she cannot resist arguing with him, even after he returns to propose. Her quarrelsome nature suggests that their married life will be full of similar disputes.
Character Sketch of Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov
Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov is a wealthy landowner and Natalya’s father. He is an elderly man who appears to be polite and well-mannered on the surface. When Lomov first arrives, Chubukov greets him warmly, calling him “my darling,” “my angel,” and “my treasure.” He seems to be a caring and affectionate person.
However, Chubukov’s politeness is superficial and self-serving. His first thought upon seeing Lomov in formal dress is that Lomov has come to borrow money, and he decides that he will not lend any. This shows his suspicious and calculating nature. When Lomov reveals that he has come to propose to Natalya, Chubukov is overjoyed — not because of any concern for his daughter’s happiness, but because the marriage would be economically and socially advantageous.
Chubukov is hot-tempered and easily provoked. Despite his initial joy at the proposal, he quickly joins the argument over Oxen Meadows and starts insulting Lomov. He calls Lomov’s family “lunatics” and threatens to shoot him “like a partridge.” He is carried away by emotions and forgets that Lomov is a potential son-in-law.
At the same time, Chubukov is a practical and shrewd man. He does not want to lose the opportunity of getting his daughter married. When Lomov faints, Chubukov acts quickly, putting Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s and declaring them engaged. He calls for champagne and tries to celebrate the moment even as the couple continues quarrelling. His final line, “This is what it is to be a father — and the happiest of men!” is full of irony, as the “happiness” is accompanied by the couple’s incessant arguing.
Thinking about the Text (Textbook Questions and Answers)
Q1. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is Chubukov sincere when he later says “And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son”? Find reasons for your answer from the play.
Ans: Chubukov at first suspects that Lomov has come to borrow money from him. When Lomov arrives in his formal evening dress, Chubukov is surprised and wonders about the purpose of the visit. He even thinks to himself, “Does he want to borrow money? If so, I won’t give him any!” This clearly shows that Chubukov’s initial suspicion was that Lomov wanted financial help.
No, Chubukov is not sincere when he says, “And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son.” This statement is made only after Lomov reveals that he has come to propose to Natalya. Chubukov’s behaviour proves his insincerity for the following reasons: First, his initial reaction was suspicion and a resolve not to lend money, which shows he did not truly regard Lomov as a son. Second, during the argument over Oxen Meadows, Chubukov joins his daughter in insulting Lomov and his family, calling them “lunatics” and “land-grabbers.” A person who truly loved someone like a son would not hurl such insults. Third, Chubukov’s joy at the proposal is clearly motivated by the social and economic advantages of the marriage, not by genuine affection for Lomov. His words are nothing more than empty flattery.
Q2. Chubukov says of Natalya: “…as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad, she’s like a lovesick cat…” Would you agree? Find reasons for your answer.
Ans: Chubukov’s statement that Natalya is “in love like a lovesick cat” is partially true. Natalya does seem to want to marry Lomov, as is evident when she learns about his proposal and immediately starts crying and begging her father to bring him back. She says, “Bring him back! Bring him back!” showing her desperation not to lose this opportunity.
However, calling her “lovesick” is an exaggeration. At no point in the play does Natalya express genuine romantic feelings or deep love for Lomov. When she is with Lomov, she does not behave like a woman in love. Instead, she argues fiercely about Oxen Meadows and dogs, showing more attachment to her property and possessions than to Lomov himself. Her desire to marry Lomov seems to be driven more by practical considerations — such as his wealth, social status, and the fact that he is a suitable match — rather than by true love. She is more concerned about not missing the chance of a good marriage proposal than about losing the man she loves. Therefore, while Natalya is eager to marry Lomov, describing her as “lovesick” is an overstatement by her father.
Q3. (i) Find all the instances of humour in the play. (ii) Which situations/dialogues are most humorous in your opinion?
Ans: (i) There are numerous instances of humour throughout the play:
- Lomov arrives in formal evening dress to propose marriage but ends up arguing instead. His nervousness and trembling before the proposal are comic.
- Chubukov’s suspicion that Lomov has come to borrow money, and his sudden change to joy when he learns about the proposal.
- The trivial argument over the ownership of Oxen Meadows between Lomov and Natalya, which completely derails the proposal.
- Chubukov joining the quarrel instead of calming the situation, and the three characters hurling insults at each other about their respective families.
- Lomov’s dramatic complaints about his palpitations, numb leg, and twitching eye during the middle of heated arguments.
- Natalya’s sudden transformation from an angry, quarrelsome woman to a wailing, desperate one when she learns that Lomov had come to propose.
- The second argument over the dogs (Guess vs. Squeezer), which is even more absurd than the first argument.
- Lomov fainting and everyone thinking he is dead, followed by Chubukov quickly putting Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s the moment he revives.
- The couple resuming their quarrel about dogs immediately after getting engaged, even as champagne is being served.
(ii) In my opinion, the most humorous situations are: First, Natalya’s dramatic change when she learns about the proposal — she goes from shouting “The Oxen Meadows are ours!” to crying “Bring him back!” in a matter of seconds. Second, the argument over the dogs is extremely funny because both characters become so passionate about which dog is better that they completely forget about the marriage. Third, the ending is the most humorous part, where the newly engaged couple starts fighting again within moments of their engagement, and the helpless Chubukov can only call for champagne and sigh about the joys of fatherhood.
Q4. “Much Ado About Nothing.” Do you think this title applies to the play “The Proposal”? Explain with reasons.
Ans: Yes, Shakespeare’s title “Much Ado About Nothing” applies perfectly to the play “The Proposal.” The entire play is about making a great fuss over trivial, unimportant matters while neglecting the truly important matter at hand — the marriage proposal.
Lomov comes with the single purpose of proposing to Natalya, but instead of doing so, he gets into two prolonged arguments over completely insignificant issues. The first argument is about the ownership of Oxen Meadows — a small piece of land that Natalya herself admits is worth only about five roubles. Yet both Lomov and Natalya argue so passionately about it that they forget the proposal entirely. The second argument is about whose dog is the better hunter — an even more trivial matter. Both arguments nearly destroy the marriage before it even begins.
All three characters — Lomov, Natalya, and Chubukov — are guilty of making “much ado about nothing.” They waste their time, energy, and emotions on petty quarrels while the important matter of marriage is pushed aside. Lomov’s proposal is repeatedly delayed by these unnecessary arguments. It is only when Lomov faints that Chubukov seizes the moment and forces the engagement through. Even after the engagement, the couple resumes their petty squabbling. The play perfectly illustrates how human beings often create unnecessary drama and conflict over the most trivial of matters.
Q5. What does Chubukov’s reaction to the proposal tell us about his character? Is he a good father?
Ans: Chubukov’s reaction to the proposal reveals several aspects of his character. When Lomov tells him about his intention to propose to Natalya, Chubukov is overwhelmed with joy. He hugs and kisses Lomov, calls him “my angel” and “my darling,” and says he has always wished for this. He also says that Natalya is “like a lovesick cat” and that she will certainly consent. His reaction shows that he is eager to get his daughter married and sees the proposal as a great opportunity.
However, Chubukov’s joy seems to be more about the economic and social advantages of the match than about his daughter’s personal happiness. He does not once ask Natalya about her feelings or wishes. When the argument over Oxen Meadows breaks out, Chubukov forgets entirely about the proposal and joins in the quarrel, insulting Lomov and threatening him. A truly good father would have tried to calm the situation and facilitated the proposal. Instead, Chubukov lets his temper and pride take over. Only when Lomov faints does Chubukov act practically, quickly forcing the engagement before anything else can go wrong. He is a practical father who wants to secure his daughter’s future, but he is not emotionally sensitive or thoughtful in his approach.
Additional Short Answer Questions (2-3 Marks)
Q1. Who is Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov? Why does he visit Chubukov’s house?
Ans: Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov is a thirty-five-year-old unmarried landowner and a neighbour of the Chubukovs. He visits Chubukov’s house to ask for the hand of Chubukov’s daughter, Natalya Stepanovna, in marriage. He arrives dressed in his formal evening clothes, which surprises Chubukov.
Q2. Why is Lomov anxious to get married?
Ans: Lomov is anxious to get married because he has already reached the age of thirty-five, which he considers a “critical age.” He suffers from palpitations, poor sleep, and various health problems. He feels that he needs a settled, regular life and a companion who can look after him. He is not driven by love but by practical necessity and the fear that if he waits for true love, he will never marry.
Q3. What are the ailments that Lomov suffers from?
Ans: Lomov suffers from multiple ailments. He has chronic heart palpitations that worsen when he is excited or nervous. He also suffers from insomnia — he cannot sleep properly and jumps out of bed several times during the night. His left eyelid twitches, his lips tremble, and his right side goes numb. He is essentially a hypochondriac who is constantly worried about his health.
Q4. What was Natalya doing when Lomov visited?
Ans: When Lomov visited Chubukov’s house, Natalya was busy shelling peas for drying. Chubukov went inside to call her, and when she came out, she was surprised to see Lomov. She greeted him warmly and asked why he had not visited for a long time.
Q5. What is the dispute about Oxen Meadows?
Ans: Oxen Meadows is a piece of land located between Lomov’s Birchwoods and Chubukov’s Burnt Marsh. Both families claim ownership of this land. Lomov argues that his aunt’s grandmother gave the meadows temporarily to Natalya’s great-grandfather’s peasants for making bricks, and that the peasants used them for about forty years. Natalya, on the other hand, insists that the meadows have belonged to her family for nearly three hundred years. This dispute becomes the first major argument in the play.
Q6. How does Lomov describe Natalya before proposing?
Ans: Before proposing, Lomov describes Natalya as “an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, and well-educated.” He considers these qualities to be sufficient for marriage. He does not speak about love, romance, or emotional connection. His description is purely practical and transactional, showing that his reasons for marriage are based on convenience rather than affection.
Q7. How does Natalya react when she learns that Lomov had come to propose?
Ans: When Natalya learns from her father that Lomov had come to propose marriage, she is completely shocked and desperate. She starts wailing and crying. She demands that her father bring Lomov back immediately, saying, “Bring him back! Bring him back!” Her reaction shows that she is eager to marry Lomov and regrets the quarrel that drove him away. She goes from being angry and argumentative to being desperate and pleading within moments.
Q8. What is the second argument between Lomov and Natalya about?
Ans: The second argument between Lomov and Natalya is about their respective hunting dogs. Lomov boasts about his dog Guess, claiming that it is the best dog in the district and that he paid 125 roubles for it. Natalya argues that her dog Squeezer is far superior. Lomov says Squeezer is overshot (has a deformed lower jaw), while Natalya claims Guess is old, ugly, and lame. This argument is even more trivial than the land dispute.
Q9. What happens to Lomov during the argument about the dogs?
Ans: During the heated argument about the dogs, Lomov becomes extremely agitated and his health problems flare up. His heart starts palpitating violently, his side goes numb, and his foot goes to sleep. He eventually collapses and falls into an armchair. Natalya and Chubukov think he is dead. Natalya becomes hysterical, crying, “He’s dead!” However, Lomov soon revives and comes back to consciousness.
Q10. How does the play end?
Ans: The play ends with a mix of celebration and comedy. When Lomov revives after fainting, Chubukov quickly seizes the opportunity. He takes Natalya’s hand and places it in Lomov’s, declaring that she is willing and blessing their union. He calls for champagne to celebrate. However, even as the engagement is being celebrated, Lomov and Natalya immediately start quarrelling again about their dogs — Lomov insisting Guess is better and Natalya defending Squeezer. Chubukov exclaims, “This is what it is to be a father!” and calls for champagne as the play ends with the couple still arguing.
Q11. Why does Chubukov call Lomov’s family “lunatics”?
Ans: During the heated argument over Oxen Meadows, Chubukov loses his temper and insults Lomov’s entire family. He calls them “lunatics” because he is angry and wants to defend his claim to the meadows. He also calls Lomov a “pettifogger” and accuses the Lomov family of being land-grabbers. Chubukov’s insults are a result of his hot temper and pride rather than any genuine belief about the Lomov family. His tendency to hurl insults during arguments is one of his defining character traits.
Q12. What are the qualities that Lomov looks for in a wife?
Ans: Lomov looks for practical qualities in a wife rather than romantic or emotional ones. He wants a woman who is an excellent housekeeper, who is not bad-looking, and who is well-educated. He also values the fact that Natalya comes from a wealthy neighbouring family. He does not mention love, emotional compatibility, or shared interests. For Lomov, marriage is a practical arrangement to ensure a settled and regular life, especially given his age and health problems.
Q13. What do the arguments in the play reveal about the characters?
Ans: The arguments in the play reveal that all three characters — Lomov, Natalya, and Chubukov — are quarrelsome, proud, stubborn, and possessive. They are all deeply attached to their material possessions, whether it is land or dogs. They place more importance on being right and winning arguments than on maintaining good relationships. Their arguments also show their inability to communicate properly and their tendency to let trivial matters overshadow important decisions. The characters represent the shallow, materialistic nature of the landed gentry in nineteenth-century Russian society.
Q14. What does Lomov say about Chubukov’s family during the argument?
Ans: During the heated argument over Oxen Meadows, Lomov makes several insulting remarks about Chubukov’s family. He says that Chubukov’s grandfather was a drunkard. He also accuses Chubukov’s aunt (Nastasya Mihailovna) of eloping with an architect. These insults are made in retaliation to Chubukov’s insults about the Lomov family. Both families hurl accusations at each other, revealing their deep-seated rivalry and pride.
Q15. How does the play “The Proposal” reflect the theme of materialism?
Ans: The play strongly reflects the theme of materialism. The entire marriage proposal is based on material considerations rather than love. Lomov wants to marry Natalya because she is a good housekeeper and comes from a wealthy family, not because he loves her. Natalya is eager to marry Lomov because of his wealth and social status. The arguments over Oxen Meadows (a piece of land) and the dogs (valuable hunting animals) further demonstrate that the characters are deeply attached to their material possessions. They would rather lose a marriage than concede ownership of a small meadow or admit that their dog is inferior. The play satirises how materialism and greed dominate people’s lives and relationships.
Q16. What role does Chubukov play in the arguments between Lomov and Natalya?
Ans: Instead of acting as a peacemaker or mediator, Chubukov plays the role of an instigator who makes the arguments worse. During the dispute over Oxen Meadows, he enters the room and, instead of calming his daughter and Lomov, joins in the quarrel on Natalya’s side. He insults Lomov and his family with great vigour. During the argument about the dogs as well, Chubukov takes his daughter’s side and adds fuel to the fire. His hot temper and inability to stay neutral make the situations worse. He only acts sensibly when Lomov faints and he quickly arranges the engagement before another argument can break out.
Q17. Why does Lomov compare the proposal to an examination?
Ans: Lomov compares the proposal to an examination because he is extremely nervous and anxious about it. He says, “I’m trembling all over, just as if I’d got an examination before me.” Just as a student feels scared and jittery before an exam, Lomov is terrified of proposing to Natalya. He is unsure whether she will accept him, and the nervousness makes his hands tremble, his heart palpitate, and his body shake. This comparison highlights Lomov’s lack of confidence and his tendency to overthink and worry excessively.
Q18. Is Natalya really in love with Lomov? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: It is debatable whether Natalya is truly in love with Lomov. She does not express any romantic feelings for him during the play. When she is with him, she argues passionately about land and dogs rather than showing warmth or affection. However, when she learns that Lomov had come to propose, she becomes desperate and cries, “Bring him back!” This could suggest that she has hidden feelings for him, or it could simply mean that she does not want to lose a good marriage proposal. Given the overall tone of the play, it seems more likely that Natalya is motivated by the practical advantages of marriage (wealth, social status, companionship) rather than genuine romantic love. She is eager to marry but not necessarily “in love.”
Long Answer Questions (5-8 Marks)
Q1. Justify the title of the play “The Proposal” with reference to the characters and the plot.
Ans: The title “The Proposal” is highly appropriate and captures the essence of the entire play. The play revolves around Ivan Lomov’s attempt to propose marriage to Natalya Stepanovna, the daughter of his neighbour Chubukov. However, the proposal is never made smoothly. It is repeatedly delayed, interrupted, and nearly destroyed by petty quarrels.
When Lomov arrives at Chubukov’s house, he tells Chubukov about his intention to propose. Chubukov is delighted and immediately sends for Natalya. However, when Lomov meets Natalya, instead of proposing, he starts talking about his land and accidentally triggers a fierce argument over the ownership of Oxen Meadows. The argument escalates, Chubukov joins in, and Lomov storms out without ever making the proposal.
When Natalya learns that Lomov had come to propose, she desperately wants him back. Lomov returns, but again, instead of proposing, a second argument breaks out — this time over their dogs. Lomov collapses during this argument. It is only when he revives that Chubukov quickly forces the engagement by putting Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s. The proposal is never actually made by Lomov himself — it is arranged by Chubukov in a moment of opportunism.
The title is ironic because the “proposal” that is the central event of the play never actually happens in the traditional sense. Lomov never gets to say “Will you marry me?” to Natalya. The proposal is the driving force of the play, yet it is constantly undermined by the characters’ stubbornness, pride, and love of quarrelling. The title highlights the absurdity of the situation — an event that should be joyful and romantic becomes a series of heated arguments and a medical emergency. Chekhov uses this title to satirise the way petty concerns and materialistic attitudes can overshadow the most important moments in life.
Q2. Describe the first meeting between Lomov and Natalya. How does their conversation lead to an argument?
Ans: When Natalya enters the room, Lomov is extremely nervous. He greets her and she welcomes him warmly, saying, “You haven’t been here for so long!” She offers him lunch and asks why he is wearing his formal evening dress, wondering if he is going to a ball. Lomov’s nervousness is evident in his trembling voice and agitated manner.
Lomov tries to begin his proposal by talking about how the two families have always been good neighbours. He mentions that his land borders the Chubukov estate and that his Birchwoods are close to their property. He then says, “My Oxen Meadows, as you know, touch your Birchwoods.” This mention of Oxen Meadows is where the trouble begins.
Natalya immediately objects, saying, “Excuse me, but you said ‘my Oxen Meadows.’ Are they really yours?” Lomov claims that the meadows belong to him, explaining that his aunt’s grandmother gave the land to Natalya’s great-grandfather’s peasants temporarily for making bricks. Natalya refuses to accept this and insists that the meadows have been in her family for nearly three hundred years.
The argument quickly escalates from a calm disagreement to a heated quarrel. Both become agitated and start raising their voices. Natalya accuses Lomov of trying to grab her family’s land, while Lomov threatens to take the matter to court. When Chubukov enters, instead of calming the situation, he takes his daughter’s side and starts insulting Lomov and his family. The quarrel becomes a full-blown fight with all three characters hurling insults at each other. Lomov, whose health problems are aggravated by the stress, eventually storms out of the house, forgetting his proposal entirely. This scene brilliantly shows how a simple conversation can spiral into chaos when pride, possessiveness, and stubbornness take over.
Q3. How does “The Proposal” satirise the institution of marriage? Explain with examples from the play.
Ans: “The Proposal” is a brilliant satire on the institution of marriage, particularly in the context of nineteenth-century Russian landed gentry. Chekhov uses humour, irony, and exaggeration to expose the shallow, materialistic, and transactional nature of marriage in that society.
First, the motivation for marriage is entirely materialistic. Lomov does not propose out of love. He decides to marry because he has reached the age of thirty-five, suffers from health problems, and wants a settled life. He evaluates Natalya based on practical criteria — she is a good housekeeper, not bad-looking, and educated. Similarly, Natalya and Chubukov are eager for the marriage because of Lomov’s wealth and social status. There is no mention of love, romance, or emotional connection throughout the play.
Second, the proposal is repeatedly derailed by petty arguments. The characters fight over a small piece of land (Oxen Meadows) and over whose dog is better — issues that are trivial compared to the marriage. This shows that material possessions and pride are more important to these characters than the prospect of a happy marriage.
Third, the engagement itself is farcical. Lomov never actually proposes to Natalya. He faints during an argument, and Chubukov simply grabs the opportunity to force the engagement by putting Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s hand the moment he revives. The engagement is not a moment of joy and romance but a moment of opportunism and relief.
Fourth, the newly engaged couple resumes quarrelling immediately. Within moments of being engaged, Lomov and Natalya start arguing again about their dogs. This suggests that their marriage will be full of similar petty fights, and there is no genuine understanding or compatibility between them.
Through all these elements, Chekhov satirises a society where marriage is a business deal rather than a union of hearts, where possessions matter more than people, and where pride and stubbornness prevent any possibility of genuine happiness.
Q4. What are the qualities common to all three characters of the play? Give examples to support your answer.
Ans: All three characters in the play — Lomov, Natalya, and Chubukov — share several common qualities that drive the comedy and conflict in the play.
1. They are all quarrelsome and argumentative. Lomov argues with Natalya about Oxen Meadows and later about their dogs. Natalya refuses to back down from either argument. Chubukov, instead of playing peacemaker, joins in every quarrel and makes it worse. All three seem to enjoy arguing and are unable to have a calm conversation.
2. They are all proud and stubborn. None of the three characters is willing to accept that they might be wrong. Lomov insists the Oxen Meadows belong to him, Natalya insists they belong to her family, and Chubukov supports his daughter without considering Lomov’s claims. Similarly, in the argument about dogs, both Lomov and Natalya stubbornly defend their own dogs and refuse to acknowledge any merit in the other’s pet.
3. They are all materialistic and possessive. The characters place enormous importance on material possessions — land, dogs, and wealth. Lomov’s decision to marry is based on practical considerations, not love. Natalya is more concerned about the Oxen Meadows than about a potential husband. Chubukov is delighted about the proposal because of its economic advantages.
4. They are all quick to insult each other. During the arguments, all three characters hurl insults at each other. Chubukov calls Lomov a “pettifogger” and a “rascal.” Lomov calls Chubukov’s grandfather a “drunkard.” Natalya calls Lomov’s family “lunatics.” The ease with which they trade insults shows their volatile temperaments.
5. They are all hypocritical. Chubukov claims to love Lomov “like a son” but insults him minutes later. Natalya acts politely at first but becomes aggressive the moment her property is questioned. Lomov comes to propose but forgets his purpose the moment his pride is challenged. Their words and actions are constantly contradictory.
Q5. Do you think the marriage between Lomov and Natalya will be a happy one? Give reasons for your answer based on the play.
Ans: Based on the events of the play, it seems unlikely that the marriage between Lomov and Natalya will be a happy one. Several indicators suggest that their married life will be full of conflicts and arguments.
First, their relationship is built on arguments, not affection. In the short time they spend together in the play, Lomov and Natalya have two major arguments — one over Oxen Meadows and another over their dogs. At no point do they have a pleasant, loving conversation. If they cannot get through a single meeting without fighting, it is hard to imagine them living together peacefully.
Second, both are extremely stubborn and proud. Neither Lomov nor Natalya is willing to compromise or admit they are wrong. In a marriage, compromise and understanding are essential, but these two characters seem incapable of either. They would rather fight to the bitter end than give in.
Third, their marriage is not based on love. Lomov wants to marry for practical reasons, and Natalya seems more interested in the social and economic benefits of marriage than in Lomov himself. Without genuine love and emotional connection, a marriage is likely to be unstable and unsatisfying.
Fourth, the play ends with them quarrelling. Even after becoming engaged, Lomov and Natalya immediately resume their argument about dogs. This strongly suggests that their marriage will be an endless series of petty quarrels. Chubukov’s exasperated cry for champagne at the end is a sign of the chaos that lies ahead.
However, one could also argue that since both characters are equally quarrelsome, they might actually be well-suited to each other. Their constant arguing might simply be their way of communicating, and they may eventually learn to live with each other’s stubbornness. But based on the evidence in the play, the outlook for their marriage is not very promising.
Q6. Explain the significance of the two arguments in the play. What do they reveal about the characters and the society they live in?
Ans: The two arguments in the play — one about Oxen Meadows and the other about the hunting dogs — are central to the plot and carry deep significance in terms of character revelation and social commentary.
The first argument about Oxen Meadows reveals the characters’ deep attachment to land and property. The Oxen Meadows are a small, relatively insignificant piece of land wedged between Lomov’s Birchwoods and Chubukov’s Burnt Marsh. Natalya herself says the meadows are only about five roubles’ worth and twelve acres in size. Yet both Lomov and Natalya argue with such passion and fury that they completely forget the marriage proposal. This argument reveals that for these characters, property ownership is a matter of family honour and pride, not just economics. It also shows how disputes over land can destroy relationships. In the context of nineteenth-century Russian society, land was the primary source of wealth and social status for the gentry, which explains why even a small meadow can trigger such a fierce quarrel.
The second argument about the dogs is even more absurd. Lomov boasts about his dog Guess, while Natalya defends her dog Squeezer. They argue about the dogs’ breeding, hunting abilities, physical appearance, and worth. This argument is significant because it shows that the characters will argue about absolutely anything. If they can fight so fiercely over whose dog is better, no topic is safe from their quarrelsome nature. The dog argument also reveals the competitive nature of these families — each wants to prove that they own the best of everything.
Together, the two arguments reveal a society where material possessions define a person’s worth, where pride and stubbornness are seen as virtues rather than flaws, and where trivial matters consistently overshadow important life decisions. Chekhov uses these arguments to satirise the Russian landed gentry and, more broadly, human nature itself — our tendency to get caught up in petty concerns while neglecting what truly matters.
Q7. “The Proposal” is a one-act play that works as a farce. Justify this statement with examples.
Ans: A farce is a type of comedy that uses highly exaggerated, improbable situations, slapstick humour, and absurd events to entertain the audience. “The Proposal” by Anton Chekhov fits the definition of a farce perfectly.
Exaggerated characters: All three characters in the play are exaggerated versions of real people. Lomov is an extreme hypochondriac who complains about his palpitations, numb leg, and twitching eye at every opportunity. Natalya goes from a polite hostess to a screaming, argumentative woman in seconds. Chubukov transforms from a loving, warm host to an abusive, angry man the moment an argument starts. These extreme, rapid changes in behaviour are typical of farce.
Absurd situations: The central situation of the play is absurd — a man comes to propose marriage but ends up having two fierce arguments instead. The fact that the characters fight over trivial matters like a small meadow and whose dog is better, while completely forgetting about the marriage proposal, is highly improbable and absurd. The climax, where Lomov faints and Chubukov forces the engagement in a panic, is another example of absurdity.
Physical comedy: Lomov’s health problems provide physical comedy throughout the play. His trembling, palpitations, numbness, and eventual fainting are exaggerated for comic effect. The scene where Lomov collapses and everyone thinks he is dead, only for him to revive and immediately resume arguing, is classic slapstick humour.
Rapid pace and confusion: The play moves at a rapid pace, with arguments erupting suddenly and characters changing their positions quickly. Natalya’s instant transformation from angry to desperate when she learns about the proposal, and the chaotic ending where the couple argues even as champagne is served, create a sense of confusion and comedy that is characteristic of farce.
Irony and satire: The play is full of irony. A proposal that should be a happy event becomes a disaster. Characters who should be trying to impress each other are instead insulting each other. The ending, where the engagement is celebrated with champagne while the couple is still fighting, is deeply ironic. Through this farce, Chekhov satirises the materialistic, quarrelsome nature of the Russian landed gentry.
Q8. How does Chekhov use the character of Lomov to create humour in the play?
Ans: Chekhov uses the character of Lomov as the primary source of humour in the play. Lomov’s humour comes from several aspects of his personality and behaviour.
His nervousness: Lomov’s extreme nervousness about the proposal is a major source of comedy. Before meeting Natalya, he trembles, his heart palpitates, and he compares the experience to having an examination. He talks to himself, trying to build up courage, but the moment he meets Natalya, he cannot bring himself to propose. This contrast between his intention and his inability to act is inherently funny.
His hypochondria: Lomov constantly complains about his health. He mentions his palpitations, his numb side, his twitching eyelid, his bad sleep, and various other ailments. These complaints come at the most inappropriate moments — in the middle of arguments, when he should be proposing, and when he should be trying to make a good impression. His exaggerated health complaints are comic because they are so out of place.
His inability to propose: The central comic element is that Lomov comes with the sole purpose of proposing but never manages to do it. He gets sidetracked by arguments twice — first about Oxen Meadows and then about dogs. His complete inability to stay focused on his goal, despite having planned and dressed for it, is a source of ongoing humour.
His quick temper: Despite being nervous and unwell, Lomov is quick to anger. He transforms from a trembling, humble visitor to an aggressive, shouting man the moment his property or pride is challenged. This sudden transformation is comic, especially when he is supposed to be courting Natalya.
His fainting: The climax of Lomov’s comedy is his fainting spell. After arguing passionately about dogs, he collapses dramatically. Everyone thinks he is dead. But the moment he opens his eyes, instead of being grateful to be alive, he asks, “Where am I?” and is immediately ready to start arguing again. This sequence is pure farce and is one of the funniest moments in the play.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Q1. What does Chubukov initially suspect when Lomov arrives in formal dress?
(a) Lomov wants to invite him to a party
(b) Lomov has come to borrow money
(c) Lomov wants to buy his land
(d) Lomov is going to a wedding
Answer: (b) Lomov has come to borrow money
Q2. Why does Lomov want to marry Natalya?
(a) He is deeply in love with her
(b) His parents have arranged the match
(c) He has reached a critical age and needs a settled life
(d) Chubukov has forced him to propose
Answer: (c) He has reached a critical age and needs a settled life
Q3. Whom does Chubukov call “a lovesick cat”?
(a) Lomov
(b) Natalya
(c) Himself
(d) His maid
Answer: (b) Natalya
Q4. Which piece of land do Lomov and Natalya argue about?
(a) Birchwoods
(b) Burnt Marsh
(c) Oxen Meadows
(d) Pine Forest
Answer: (c) Oxen Meadows
Q5. What was Natalya doing when Lomov came to visit?
(a) Cooking food
(b) Washing clothes
(c) Cleaning the house
(d) Shelling peas
Answer: (d) Shelling peas
Q6. What is the name of Lomov’s dog?
(a) Squeezer
(b) Guess
(c) Rover
(d) Hunter
Answer: (b) Guess
Q7. What is the name of Natalya’s dog?
(a) Guess
(b) Tracker
(c) Squeezer
(d) Pointer
Answer: (c) Squeezer
Q8. How much did Lomov pay for his dog Guess?
(a) 25 roubles
(b) 85 roubles
(c) 100 roubles
(d) 125 roubles
Answer: (d) 125 roubles
Q9. According to Lomov, how much would be a good price for Squeezer?
(a) 10 roubles
(b) 25 roubles
(c) 50 roubles
(d) 75 roubles
Answer: (b) 25 roubles
Q10. What defect does Lomov claim Squeezer has?
(a) It is blind
(b) It is lame
(c) It is overshot (deformed lower jaw)
(d) It is deaf
Answer: (c) It is overshot (deformed lower jaw)
Q11. What happens to Lomov during the argument about dogs?
(a) He runs away
(b) He starts crying
(c) He collapses/faints
(d) He calls the police
Answer: (c) He collapses/faints
Q12. How does Chubukov arrange the engagement?
(a) He asks Lomov to propose formally
(b) He places Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s hand
(c) He writes a marriage contract
(d) He asks a priest to bless them
Answer: (b) He places Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s hand
Q13. What do they drink to celebrate the engagement?
(a) Tea
(b) Coffee
(c) Wine
(d) Champagne
Answer: (d) Champagne
Q14. The Oxen Meadows are located between:
(a) Two rivers
(b) Birchwoods and Burnt Marsh
(c) Two villages
(d) A forest and a lake
Answer: (b) Birchwoods and Burnt Marsh
Q15. “The Proposal” is set in which country?
(a) England
(b) France
(c) Russia
(d) Germany
Answer: (c) Russia
Extract-Based Questions
Extract 1
“It’s cold… I’m trembling all over, just as if I’d got an examination before me. The great thing is, I must have my mind made up. If I give myself time to think, to hesitate, to talk a lot, to look for an ideal, or for real love, then I’ll never get married.”
Q1. Who is the speaker? Where is the speaker at this moment?
Ans: The speaker is Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov. He is in Chubukov’s drawing room, alone, after Chubukov has gone inside to call Natalya.
Q2. Why is the speaker trembling?
Ans: The speaker is trembling because he is extremely nervous about proposing marriage to Natalya. He compares his nervousness to the feeling of facing an examination. His anxiety causes physical symptoms such as trembling, palpitations, and cold sensations.
Q3. What does the speaker mean by “I must have my mind made up”?
Ans: The speaker means that he must decide quickly and go through with the proposal without overthinking. He believes that if he hesitates, looks for an ideal match, or waits for real love, he will never get married. He must act decisively and propose to Natalya, who is a practical choice even if he does not feel passionate love for her.
Q4. What does this extract reveal about the speaker’s attitude towards marriage?
Ans: This extract reveals that the speaker views marriage as a practical necessity rather than a romantic union. He does not want to wait for “real love” or search for an “ideal” partner. He is marrying out of convenience and the fear that his age and health will prevent him from finding a wife later. His attitude is transactional and calculating, which is one of the key themes Chekhov satirises in the play.
Extract 2
“Oxen Meadows are ours, not yours! … Our peasants used the land for forty years and got to think of it as their own … the Meadows were once a matter of dispute and so on, but now everyone knows they’re ours. There’s nothing to argue about.”
Q1. Who says these words and to whom?
Ans: These words are spoken by Natalya Stepanovna to Ivan Lomov during their argument about the ownership of Oxen Meadows.
Q2. What is the “dispute” mentioned in the extract?
Ans: The dispute is about the ownership of Oxen Meadows, a piece of land located between Lomov’s Birchwoods and Chubukov’s Burnt Marsh. Lomov claims the meadows belong to his family because his aunt’s grandmother gave them temporarily to Chubukov’s great-grandfather’s peasants for making bricks. Natalya claims her family has owned the meadows for nearly three hundred years.
Q3. What does this extract tell us about Natalya’s character?
Ans: This extract reveals that Natalya is extremely possessive, stubborn, and proud about her family’s property. She is assertive and will not give up what she believes belongs to her family. She claims there is “nothing to argue about,” showing her refusal to even consider Lomov’s point of view. Her attachment to land and property is so strong that it overshadows any possibility of a pleasant conversation with a potential suitor.
Extract 3
“CHUBUKOV: (aside) It’s started already! (aloud) What Meadows? LOMOV: Oxen Meadows. CHUBUKOV: Oh, just let me keep calm! … The Meadows are ours! LOMOV: Ours, honoured Stepan Stepanovich. CHUBUKOV: What are you shouting for? You can go and prove it in court!”
Q1. What has “started already” according to Chubukov?
Ans: According to Chubukov, the argument between Lomov and Natalya over the ownership of Oxen Meadows has “started already.” He realises that a quarrel has broken out between the two, and his aside comment shows he recognises the situation is about to get worse.
Q2. Does Chubukov try to calm the situation? What does he do instead?
Ans: No, Chubukov does not try to calm the situation. Despite telling himself to “keep calm,” he immediately takes his daughter’s side and claims that the meadows are theirs. Instead of being a neutral mediator, he joins the argument and makes it worse by insulting Lomov and his family.
Q3. What does this extract show about the relationship between the two families?
Ans: This extract shows that despite being neighbours, the Lomov and Chubukov families have a competitive and contentious relationship. They have ongoing disputes over property, and both families are quick to defend their claims aggressively. The veneer of politeness and neighbourly warmth is very thin and cracks the moment a sensitive topic like land ownership is raised.
Extract 4
“NATALYA: (enters) Well, there! I thought it was someone come to buy something. Good afternoon, Ivan Vassilevitch! … You haven’t been here for so long! Sit down, please. (They sit down.) Won’t you have some lunch?”
Q1. What does Natalya’s greeting tell us about her relationship with Lomov?
Ans: Natalya’s greeting tells us that she and Lomov are familiar acquaintances who know each other as neighbours. She is surprised to see him and notes that he has not visited for a long time. Her tone is polite and welcoming. She invites him to sit down and offers him lunch, showing that the two families maintain a cordial, neighbourly relationship on the surface.
Q2. What was Natalya expecting when she heard someone had come?
Ans: Natalya was expecting a buyer — someone who had come to buy something. This suggests that the Chubukov estate might have business dealings or that Natalya, being a practical housekeeper, was thinking about household or commercial matters when Lomov arrived.
Q3. How does this polite beginning contrast with what happens later?
Ans: This polite, warm beginning creates a sharp contrast with the fierce arguments that follow. Within minutes of this friendly greeting, Lomov and Natalya will be shouting at each other about Oxen Meadows. The pleasant atmosphere is quickly destroyed by their quarrelsome natures. This contrast is a key element of the play’s humour and Chekhov’s satirical technique.
Extract 5
“CHUBUKOV: Natalya! I congratulate you! The marriage is arranged! God bless you! I give my consent and so on. Leave me alone! … (Drinks water.) I give you my blessing and so on. Only don’t argue with me!”
Q1. Why does Chubukov say “Leave me alone”?
Ans: Chubukov says “Leave me alone” because he is exhausted and overwhelmed by the constant arguments and chaos. He has been through multiple heated quarrels and the stress of Lomov fainting. He wants the engagement to be settled quickly so that there are no more disputes. His plea to be left alone shows his frustration with the entire situation.
Q2. What does the phrase “Only don’t argue with me!” reveal?
Ans: The phrase “Only don’t argue with me!” reveals that Chubukov is fully aware of how quarrelsome all the characters are, including himself. He knows that arguments are likely to break out at any moment and wants to prevent any further conflict. It also adds to the comedy of the scene — even at this supposedly happy moment, Chubukov’s primary concern is avoiding yet another argument.
Q3. Is this a typical scene of engagement celebrations? Why or why not?
Ans: No, this is not a typical engagement celebration at all. In a normal engagement, there would be joy, warmth, and congratulations. Here, Chubukov’s “congratulations” are accompanied by exhaustion, frustration, and a desperate plea for peace. He drinks water to calm himself down. The engagement was forced by Chubukov putting Natalya’s hand in Lomov’s after he fainted, and even now, the couple is on the verge of arguing again. This atypical celebration is part of the play’s farcical humour and Chekhov’s satire on the absurdity of this particular marriage.
Extract 6
“LOMOV: He’s better! NATALYA: Worse! Worse! Worse! CHUBUKOV: Well, that’s a way to start your family bliss! Have some champagne!”
Q1. What are Lomov and Natalya arguing about here?
Ans: Lomov and Natalya are arguing about their respective dogs — Lomov’s Guess and Natalya’s Squeezer. Lomov claims Guess is the better dog, while Natalya insists Squeezer is superior. This argument has resumed even after their engagement.
Q2. What is ironic about Chubukov’s statement?
Ans: Chubukov’s statement, “Well, that’s a way to start your family bliss!” is deeply ironic. “Family bliss” suggests happiness, peace, and harmony, but the newly engaged couple is already quarrelling. The champagne, which should celebrate a joyful occasion, is being served amid chaos and conflict. Chubukov’s words are sarcastic, highlighting the absurdity of the situation.
Q3. What does this ending suggest about the couple’s future married life?
Ans: This ending strongly suggests that the couple’s married life will be filled with constant arguments and petty quarrels. If they cannot stop fighting even at the moment of their engagement, it is unlikely that they will have a peaceful marriage. However, Chekhov also seems to suggest that this argumentative nature is simply who they are — quarrelling might be their way of communicating and relating to each other. The humorous tone of the ending leaves the audience laughing at the couple’s incurable stubbornness.
Value-Based Questions
Q1. “Forgive and forget is the best policy to maintain good relationships.” How does this apply to the characters in “The Proposal”?
Ans: The principle of “forgive and forget” is highly relevant to the characters in “The Proposal” because their inability to forgive, forget, or let go of trivial matters is the root cause of all the chaos in the play. Lomov and Natalya argue bitterly over the ownership of Oxen Meadows and then over whose dog is better. Neither is willing to forgive the other’s perceived insults or forget the argument for the sake of their potential marriage. Chubukov, too, joins the arguments instead of encouraging forgiveness and understanding.
However, when Natalya learns that Lomov had come to propose, she quickly “forgives and forgets” the land dispute and desperately wants him back. This shows that when something truly important is at stake, people can choose to let go of petty grievances. If all three characters had practised the “forgive and forget” policy from the beginning, the proposal would have gone smoothly, and there would have been no chaos or conflict. The play teaches us that holding on to trivial grudges and letting pride control our actions can destroy important relationships and opportunities. Forgiveness, tolerance, and the ability to let go of small matters are essential for maintaining harmonious relationships in life.
Q2. What values does the play “The Proposal” teach us about communication and anger management?
Ans: The play “The Proposal” teaches us several important values about communication and anger management through negative examples — by showing us what happens when these values are absent.
Poor communication leads to disaster: Lomov comes with a clear purpose — to propose to Natalya. However, due to his nervousness and poor communication skills, he never manages to express his intention. Instead, he talks about land, which triggers an argument. Good communication requires clarity, patience, and the ability to stay focused on the main objective, all of which Lomov lacks.
Uncontrolled anger destroys opportunities: All three characters have terrible anger management. They fly into a rage over trivial matters and say hurtful things they do not mean. Chubukov insults a potential son-in-law, Natalya drives away a suitor, and Lomov forgets his proposal because of anger. The play shows that uncontrolled anger can cause us to lose sight of what is truly important and damage our relationships irreparably.
Listening is as important as speaking: None of the characters listens to the other. They are all so eager to prove their point that they do not consider the other person’s perspective. If they had listened to each other with patience and respect, most of the arguments could have been avoided.
Prioritise what matters: The play teaches us to distinguish between what is important and what is trivial. A marriage proposal is a life-changing event, but the characters treat it as less important than a small meadow or a hunting dog. In life, we must learn to prioritise the things that truly matter and not let petty issues overshadow significant decisions.
Q3. How does “The Proposal” highlight the importance of being a good neighbour? What values should neighbours share?
Ans: “The Proposal” highlights the importance of being a good neighbour by showing what happens when neighbours lack mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding. The Lomovs and Chubukovs are neighbours who have known each other for generations, yet their relationship is marked by disputes, insults, and mistrust.
Despite being neighbours, they have an unresolved land dispute over Oxen Meadows. They accuse each other’s families of dishonesty and greed. They insult each other’s ancestors during arguments. This behaviour is the opposite of what good neighbourliness should look like.
Good neighbours should share values such as mutual respect — respecting each other’s property, opinions, and feelings. Tolerance — being patient with each other’s differences and not letting small disagreements become big fights. Cooperation — helping each other and resolving disputes through calm discussion rather than angry arguments. Trust — believing in each other’s honesty and not making false accusations. Generosity — being willing to share and not being possessive about every small thing.
If the Lomovs and Chubukovs had practised these values, the Oxen Meadows dispute would have been settled amicably, and the proposal would have been a happy, peaceful event. The play reminds us that being a good neighbour requires effort, patience, and the willingness to put relationships above material possessions.