Abstract: Chekhov, "Defenseless Being" - Actual Portrait

Chekhov's story "Defenseless Being," written by him back in 1887, is as relevant as ever. Judge for yourself: a man who is remarkable for his meanness and cynicism, brazenly, openly, without embarrassment, suggests, or rather, causes others to believe in something else - a weak, defenseless, sick creature, all trampled and unloved by anyone. A sweet-sweet wrapper can not hide the truth, and people, nervous and bursting, refuse the "supplicant". It would seem that history could end there. But no, the interior of the "defenseless being" is distinguished by special shamelessness and rudeness: it asks, prays, falls into hysterics, then threatens, then cries again until it gets its way. Here all means are good ... It's familiar, is not it?

A. P. Chekhov, "The Defenseless Being"

The head of the bank, Mr. Kistunov, despite the night attack of gout and nerves after that, goes to the office in the morning. It is from this moment that the story begins, and hence, a short summary (Chekhov, "The Defenseless Being"). He did not have time to cross the threshold of the institution, as he turned to the applicant in an old sweatshirt, reminiscent of the "big dung beetle" from behind. Pyotr Nikolayevich languidly, tortured, breathing slightly, asked her about the purpose of the visit. Mrs. Shchukina quickly filed a petition and quickly poured out her grief. The fact is that her husband, collegiate assessor Shchukin, had been ill for several months and could not attend the service. He was fired, and twenty-four rubles and thirty-six kopecks, which he allegedly took from a co-operative fund, were deducted from the salary due. According to the crying woman, this is not possible, because a spouse without her consent can not do anything ...

Kistunov was extremely surprised: the bank - a commercial, private enterprise - has nothing to do with the state military medical department. However, he did not become indignant and decided not to drive the applicant. Slowly, extremely patiently, he began to explain that he could not help her. In response, I heard only lamentations and tears. She is a poor, sick, defenseless woman who does not eat, does not sleep and barely stands on her feet. She can wait, if necessary, but let her be given at least fifteen rubles. Kistunov could not restrain himself and asked another employee, Alexei Nikolayevich, to take up this matter.

Crushing head

We continue to tell a short summary (Chekhov, "The Defenseless Being"). Half an hour passed. Then another hour. Negotiations continued. Ms. Shchukina was again explained the difference between the departments. Cited examples that it is impossible, say, with a request for divorce to go to a pharmacy or a test tent. In response, one thing: "Have pity on me, an orphan, poor, sick, defenseless ..." Alexei Nikolayevich could not restrain himself. He was replaced by an accountant.

In the end, Mr. Kistunov, fearing that "remarkably mean", "disgusting woman", "idiot, cork" tortures and drives everyone, decided to drive her away. But it was not there. A weak, defenseless woman will not allow anyone to scoff at her like that. She has already condemned three residents, and will sue this bank, make them all at her feet lying around.

In this strain, went all day. The cries were replaced by a complaint and pleading, tears were alternating with fury. Patience Nikolaevitch dried up, and the indignation of the boorish behavior of Mrs. Shchukin finally exhausted him. He left the office, exhausted himself into a chair, took a deep breath, took out his wallet, and handed the "defenseless creature" a twenty-five-ruble note. The woman instantly wrapped her money in a handkerchief, hid it and smiled sweetly and coquettishly: "Your Excellency, is it possible for my husband to go back again?"

Summary - Chekhov, "Defenseless Being". Conclusion

Anton Pavlovich Chekhov in his story as always is thin and ironic. But at the same time there is a sadness between the lines and a certain helplessness and hopelessness before the staged absurdity and endless stupidity. Is it possible to resist "defenseless beings"? On the one hand, yes, it is possible, and on the other hand it is difficult, because unceremoniousness, every kind of farce and cynicism in its extreme manifestation take away so much spiritual strength and energy that a normal person wants to get out quickly and get away from it. But it is impossible, because Mrs. Shchukin was refused in five places. Hence, it is still possible. The summary (Chekhov, "The Defenseless Being"), of course, can not convey the entire subtlety and depth of the plot, so it is strongly recommended that you read the original.