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The Duel

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1891

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Book Brief

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Anton Chekhov

The Duel

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1891
Book Details
Pages

82

Format

Novella • Fiction

Setting

Caucasus • 19th Century

Publication Year

1891

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Duel by Anton Chekhov follows Ivan Andreitch Laevsky, who is involved in an unhappy affair with a married woman, Nadyezhda Fyodorovna, in the Caucasus. Philosophical debates about their relationship and Laevsky's contempt for work and moral duty create tension with his friends and acquaintances. The story culminates in a literal duel, reflecting deeper ideological conflicts and individual transformations. This novella addresses themes of infidelity and existential despair.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Melancholic

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

4,038 ratings

73%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Anton Chekhov's The Duel highlight the novella's incisive exploration of human nature and complex character dynamics. Positively noted for Chekhov's masterful prose and keen psychological insights, the narrative is criticized for a slow pace and a somewhat repetitive plot. Overall, it's praised for its depth and realistic depiction of existential struggles.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Duel?

Readers who appreciate Anton Chekhov's The Duel often enjoy character-driven stories set in 19th-century Russia, exploring themes of existentialism, moral dilemmas, and human psychology. Fans of Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina and Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment would likely find this novella compelling.

4.1

4,038 ratings

73%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Ivan Andreitch Laevsky

A central character experiencing a personal moral struggle, Laevsky is a young, disillusioned man grappling with issues of responsibility and self-deception. His journey includes facing the misfortunes he's caused and confronting his romantic ideals.

An army doctor who acts as a mediator between the polar opposites in the story, Samoylenko is a generous but uncritical figure. He is known for his hospitality and traditional values, often serving others and becoming involved in their personal affairs.

A character closely linked to Laevsky, she struggles with dreams and reality, balancing feelings of lightness and heaviness. Nadyezhda Fyodorovna holds a romanticized view of herself and must confront her limitations in society.

A natural scientist whose positivist materialism influences his worldview, Von Koren applies his beliefs in social Darwinism to human interactions. His character embodies a commitment to work and observation, challenging others to reevaluate their lives.

A humorous observer from a similar class background as Von Koren, Pobyedov introduces levity to the story. He engages in fantasies but remains passive, providing a counterbalance with his perspective on life's uncertainties.

Book Details
Pages

82

Format

Novella • Fiction

Setting

Caucasus • 19th Century

Publication Year

1891

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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