1. “A Problem”
By Anton Chekhov

2. Anton Chekhov Grew up in Russia during Soviet rule
Focused on poking fun at society
-government
Similar to Leo Tolstoy, but differed in opinion about rustic lifestyle
Focused on his story through mood (not too much on plot)
Chekhovian writing means that it is understated, moody and gloomily comic

3. A Problem Sasha Uskov – type of character?
Chekhov’s point about Sasha?
Chekhov’s point about society in general?
Focus on the wealthy in Russia?

4. “A Problem”
Characters:
Plot:
Setting:
Mood:
Theme:
Tone:

5. CANDIDE
By Voltaire

6. Voltaire – “Let us work without arguing… it’s the only way to make life endurable.”
Believed in writing the truth
Criticized society as a whole (war, religious intolerance and avg. citizens’ lack of power and wealth
was criticized by government (works were banned from France and he was also denied burial there
Works were looked highly upon by the people and was later given burial back in France

7. Candide Work is a satire –
Writing that ridicules human weakness, vice or folly in order to bring about social reform.
Voltaire exposes and exaggerates his understatements by pointing out things that he feels should be discussed.

8. Candide
Plot:
Setting:
Theme:
Characters:
Mood:
Tone:

9. Candide
Chapter 1:
Candide is kicked (literally) out of the castle of the baron.
Voltaire pokes fun at those who have power and wealth.
We see the innocence of Candide and the corruption of others

10. Chapter 2 Candide meets the Bulgarians
Voltaire satirizes King Fredrick’s Prussian Army and their practices for initiation
Candide is beaten and dragged into the Bulgarian army (where he serves for several years)

11. Chapter 17 Candide and his valet reach the land of Eldorado.
Eldorado is a utopian society where Candide comes to the realization that he is now in a land that is perfect.

12. Chapter 18
The audience is given an explanation of what El dorado looks like
“Someone’s garbage is someone else’s treasure.” How does this come about in the story?

13. Chapter 19
Candide eventually returns to Europe and is wiser. He ends up on a farm with all those he cares for the most.
“Work is the antidote to man’s unhappy lot.” How does this apply to the end of the story?