Uncle Vanya

By Anton Chekhov

Book Overview

First produced by the Moscow Art Theater in 1899, Uncle Vanya is one of Chekhov's greatest plays and a staple of the theatrical repertoire. Both structurally and psychologically compact, it is among the most expressive of the Russian playwright's dramatic works. Set on an estate in nineteenth-century Russia, this deeply emotional tale of misplaced idealism and unrequited love concerns the complex interrelationships between a retired professor, his second wife, and his brother-in-law and daughter from a previous marriage. In deceptively mundane dialogue, the characters reveal their private tragedies -- weakness and inability to communicate -- the failures that lead them to lives of frustration and despair. Nevertheless, Chekhov's delineation of human frailties elicits sympathy for even the most irresolute and deluded characters, and the play's underlying message is one of courage and hope. Essential reading for any course in modern theater, this absorbing play continues to be popular. Students, theatergoers, and all lovers of great drama will appreciate this inexpensive edition of a masterpiece.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0486401596
• ISBN13: 9780486401591
• Release Date: January 1998
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Length: 64 Pages
• Weight: 0.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 5.3" x 8.3"
• Age Range: 14 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 9 and higher

Customer Reviews

Uncle Vanya

Enjoyed this adaptation by David Mamet very much. It arrived very quickly which was surely appreciated. Thank you.

One of the most thought provoking and beautiful plays

"Uncle Vanya" is a beautiful play. I've read it many times in several languages and always enjoyed it very much. Don't read it unless you have attention span greater than that of a child. It's rewarding if you give it a chance. This is Chekhov's best play.

Checkov at his best

I have read many versions of Uncle Vanya, but this edition is an up-beat, funny, and, ultimately wonderful version of the excellent story by one of Russias beloved writers. I was looking for the right edition to use in my school for the school play, and this edition the kids could connect to. It dosen't have a lot of that Shakespere mumbo-jumbo that you have to read 50 times. This is accesible and very good. rock on David Mamet.

engaging

I enjoyed reading Uncle Vanya. It delves into the lives of everyday normal people and their hopes and disillusionments of life. It is about self-realization and not getting what you want. A great play.

excellent

What a great play, disecting how differently people can view the things in life that are either of great importance, or extreme triviality.