The
Beggar
By
Anton Chekhov
Q: Has Lushkoff
become a beggar by circumstances or by choice?
Lushkoff became a
beggar due to circumstances. He was a former notary who lost his job due to his
drinking problems. His downfall was a combination of his own actions and the
unfortunate circumstances that followed.
Q: What reasons
does he give to Sergei for his telling lies?
Lushkoff tells Sergei
that he lies out of necessity. He claims that he is ashamed of begging and lies
to gain sympathy and assistance from others, as he believes telling the truth
would not prompt the same response.
Q: Is Lushkoff a
willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?
Lushkoff is not a
willing worker because he is feeble and remains always drunk. He agrees to chop
wood for Sergei because he is desperate and has no other means to support
himself. Moreover, Sergei left him no option and trapped him by his own words. He
consented to work simply from pride and shame.
Q: Sergei says, “I
am happy that my words have taken effect.” Why does he say so? Is he right in
saying this?
Sergie says this
because he believes his reprimands and efforts to make Lushkoff work have
reformed him and improved his life. While Sergei’s intentions were good, he is
only partially right. The actual positive change in Lushkoff’s life is more due
to the actions of Sergei’s cook, Olga, rather than Sergei’s words.
Q: Lushkoff is
earning thrity-five roubles a month. How is he obliged to Sergei for this?
Lushkoff is
obliged to Sergei because it was Sergei who initially offered him work and a
chance to improve his life. This opportunity set Lushkoff on a path away from
begging and toward stable employment, which ultimately led to his current job and
earnings.
Q: During their
conversation, Lushkoff reveals that Sergei’s cook, Olga, is responsible for the
positive change in him. How has Olga saved Lushkoff?
Olga saved
Lushkoff by performing the tasks he was supposed to do, such as chopping wood,
out of pity and compassion because Lushkoff was too weak and drunk to perform
them by himself. She scolded him for his laziness and drunkenness, and her
kindness and effort made a significant emotional impact on him. Her actions and
empathy gave Lushkoff the moral support and motivation to change his ways,
leading to his eventual reformation.
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