Literary Works Titled The Proposal
Understand that “The Proposal” is an alternative English title for Anton Chekhov’s 1890 play *A Marriage Proposal*.
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What is the original title of the 1890 play by Anton Chekhov commonly known as "The Proposal"?
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Summary
The Proposal by Anton Chekhov
Introduction
"The Proposal" is a classic one-act comedy by the Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, written in 1890. The play is sometimes referred to by its alternative English title, "A Marriage Proposal." Understanding who wrote this play and when it was written provides important historical context for analyzing Chekhov's dramatic style and the theatrical traditions of late 19th-century Russia.
Chekhov and the Play
Anton Chekhov was one of the most influential playwrights in literary history, and "The Proposal" represents an important early work in his comedic repertoire. The 1890 publication date places this play during a period when Chekhov was developing his distinctive approach to drama—one that combines humor with subtle character exploration.
The play's dual English titles—"The Proposal" and "A Marriage Proposal"—are used interchangeably in English-language texts. Both titles accurately describe the central action of the play, though you may encounter either one in your readings or course materials. The original Russian title is Предложение (Predlozhenie), which translates most directly to "The Proposal."
Note: The outline provided contains only introductory information about the play's authorship and title. To fully study "The Proposal," you would need additional content covering the plot, characters, themes, and literary analysis. Please consult your course materials or textbook for that substantive content.
Flashcards
What is the original title of the 1890 play by Anton Chekhov commonly known as "The Proposal"?
A Marriage Proposal
Who is the author of the 1890 play "A Marriage Proposal"?
Anton Chekhov
In what year was Anton Chekhov's play "A Marriage Proposal" written?
1890
Quiz
Literary Works Titled The Proposal Quiz Question 1: Which play is known in English as “The Proposal,” and who wrote its original version?
- A Marriage Proposal by Anton Chekhov (correct)
- The Seagull by Anton Chekhov
- A Marriage Proposal by William Shakespeare
- The Proposal by Neil Simon
Which play is known in English as “The Proposal,” and who wrote its original version?
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Key Concepts
Chekhov and His Works
The Proposal (play)
A Marriage Proposal
Anton Chekhov
Theatrical Context
1890 in theatre
Comedy of manners
Russian literature
Definitions
The Proposal (play)
An alternative English title for Anton Chekhov’s 1890 one‑act comedy originally titled *A Marriage Proposal*.
A Marriage Proposal
The original Russian title of Chekhov’s one‑act play first performed in 1890.
Anton Chekhov
Influential Russian playwright and short‑story writer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
1890 in theatre
The year in which Chekhov’s *A Marriage Proposal* premiered, reflecting trends in Russian drama.
Russian literature
The body of written works produced in the Russian language, encompassing Chekhov’s contributions.
Comedy of manners
A theatrical genre that satirizes social conventions, exemplified by Chekhov’s *A Marriage Proposal*.