THE PROPOSAL

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1. “The Lomovs and the Chubukovs have always had the most friendly, and I might
almost say the most affectionate, regard for each other.” How would you evaluate
Lomov and Chubukov’s relationship as neighbours?
According to the given statement, they had a cordial
relationship as neighbours. They were pretending to be
polite and respectful towards each other. But, in reality,
they considered themselves to be superior to others. They
despised each other to the extent that they laughed at
each other’s family members by calling funny names and
making fun of them in various ways.

2. Do you think Chubukov is a good father? Justify your opinion based on your reading
of the text.
According to the text, Chubukov is a good father. He is
ready to do anything for his daughter’s will. He had an
argument with Lomov over the ownership of oxen
meadows. Still, he forgets everything when his daughter
cries and asks him to bring Lomov back. He is ready to get
her married to a man of her choice.
Chat gpt:
Chubukov's actions, such as pressuring Lomov into proposing to Natalya for the sake
of land consolidation, may suggest a more transactional than paternal concern. This
casts doubt on his role as a supportive and understanding father, raising questions
about his priorities.

3. Read the statements given below: Statement 1 - ‘Lomov is looking to marry.’

Statement 2 – ‘Lomov is looking to marry Natalya.’ Bring out the difference between
the two statements and explain what it tells you about Lomov.
The first statement shows that Lomov is on the lookout for
a suitable bride for himself to get married. Whereas the
second statement implies that Lomov is considering
marriage for himself and Natalya.
It tells us that Lomov is well aware of the fact that he would
 not get a perfect match as he was already 35. He should
compromise at certain points. This shows his urgency for
marriage.

Q. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is he sincere
when he later says “And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own
son”? Find reasons for your answer from the play

Initially, Chubukov suspects that Lomov has come to borrow money. This suspicion is
revealed in Chubukov's question, "What's happened? You look as if you wanted to
ask for something unpleasant." Chubukov's suspicion is not sincere, as it later
becomes clear that Lomov has come to propose to Chubukov's daughter, Natalya.

When Chubukov later says, "And I've always loved you, my angel, as if you were my
own son," it appears insincere. Chubukov's words are spoken in the heat of an
argument, and his sudden change in attitude seems more driven by the desire to see
his daughter married than genuine affection for Lomov. The humorous irony lies in
the contrast between his earlier suspicion and the sudden expression of love,
highlighting the absurdity of the situation.

OR

At first Chubukov suspected that Lomov had come to borrow money as he was in his evening
dress. He was not sincere when he told Lomov that he had always loved him and that he was
like his own son, because he had decided to not give any money to Lomov. It was only when
Lomov asked for his daughter’s hand in marriage that his attitude changed and he rushed out
to call his daughter, Natalya.

Q. Chubukov says of Natalya: “... as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad,
she’s like a lovesick cat…” Would you agree? Find reasons for your answer.
Chubukov's statement about Natalya being in love and likening her to a "lovesick cat" is
ironic and exaggerated for comedic effect. The play presents Natalya as a strong-willed and
independent character. While she may have her own desires and opinions, the portrayal of
her as a "lovesick cat" is a humorous exaggeration by Chubukov, emphasizing the absurdity
of the situation and the over-dramatization of love and marriage. It adds to the comedic
tone of the play and is not a literal depiction of Natalya's character.

OR
Yes, Natalya is in love. This is clear by the way she behaves when she gets to know that Lomov came
to propose to her. She starts weeping and asks her father to bring Lomov at once.
Answer in about 100-120 words each.
1. A marriage of convenience is the one when some specific purpose is planned to be
gained through matrimonial alliance. Would you consider Lomov and Natalya’s union
to be a marriage of convenience? If so, why? Give reasons for your answer.
Yes, Lomov and Natalya's union can be considered a marriage of convenience. Despite
Lomov not being in love with Natalya, there were specific purposes planned to be gained
through their matrimonial alliance. Lomov was attracted to Natalya's qualities as an
excellent housekeeper 1. Additionally, Chubukov, Natalya's father, secretly wished to
marry his daughter to Lomov, which indicates that there were certain advantages or
benefits associated with the union 3. Therefore, based on these factors, it can be
concluded that Lomov and Natalya's union can be categorized as a marriage of
convenience.

OR

Paragraph 1 (Introduction): Lomov and Natalya's union in "The Proposal" reflects

characteristics of a marriage of convenience. Such marriages are driven by practical
considerations rather than genuine affection, often aiming for specific advantages
through the matrimonial alliance.

Paragraph 2 (Explanation): Lomov's primary motive for proposing is to consolidate

land, a practical and economic goal. The dialogues within the play revolve around
property boundaries and potential benefits, eclipsing deeper emotional connections.
This emphasis on material gain and societal expectations aligns with the concept of a
marriage of convenience. The comedic elements in the play arise from the absurdity
of their engagement, highlighting the satirical exploration of a society that places
practicality above romantic sentiments.

Paragraph 3 (Conclusion): In conclusion, Lomov and Natalya's union in "The

Proposal" can be characterized as a marriage of convenience due to its emphasis on
practical gains. The play provides a humorous commentary on societal values,
illustrating the absurdity of relationships driven by material considerations rather
than genuine emotional bonds.

2. Though the play revolves around three people, Russian society emerges as an important
character through the ongoings of the play and the thoughts and interactions of its characters.
Imagine yourself to be a historian who has been invited to speak about nineteenth century
upper class Russian society. Based on your reading of the play, how might you describe it?
Support your evaluation with instances from the text.

Introduction: In "The Proposal," Anton Chekhov weaves a comedic tale around three
characters, yet the underlying star is nineteenth-century Russian upper-class society.
This societal backdrop shapes the characters' behaviors, decisions, and the play's
satirical commentary, making it a pivotal element. Imagining myself as a historian,
the play serves as a fascinating window into the prevailing norms and values of the
time.

Explanation: Nineteenth-century Russian society, as depicted in the play, places

paramount importance on wealth, social standing, and pragmatic considerations in
marriage. The characters, particularly Chubukov, personify these societal values.
Chubukov's insistence on a marriage based on land consolidation rather than love
reflects the societal emphasis on material gains over emotional fulfillment. The play's
humor stems from the characters' exaggerated adherence to these societal
conventions, revealing the superficiality and materialism ingrained in the upper class.

Conclusion: "The Proposal" serves as a lens through which the historian can observe
and critique the societal norms of nineteenth-century Russian upper-class society.
The characters' interactions expose the transactional nature of relationships,
providing valuable insights into the challenges and absurdities inherent in navigating
a social landscape governed by rigid expectations. The play's comedic elements
further emphasize the satirical commentary on a society where practicality often
overshadowed genuine human connection.

OR

The Proposal play was written in the late nineteenth century.

Through this play, we can clearly visualise the tendency of
wealthy families to marry their sons or daughters to other rich
families. Because this type of family bonding increased their real
estate and brought them chances of economic growth.
It is evident from the play that Lomov and Natalya enter into an
argument even if they talk about simple things. They are not
attracted towards each other still they agree to marry just
because they share the same financial status. Their
disagreement about the dog’s breed shows to the readers that
they can stoop down to the lowest level to show off their riches
and status.
Look at the given matrimonial advertisement published in the Morning Post (newspaper) in
December 1822. It was fairly common practice in the nineteenth century for gentlemen and
ladies to seek courtship and matrimony by placing a suitable advertisement.
a) Based on your reading of the play and an understanding of the characters, what details
would Lomov provide (and specifically leave out) in a matrimonial advertisement to find a
bride like Natalya?
b) Think of what might make Chubukov shortlist Lomov’s advertisement if he were scanning
the matrimonial section of the newspaper.
ANS

a) Lomov's Matrimonial Advertisement: Lomov's advertisement seeking a bride

akin to Natalya might highlight traditional values and material considerations. He
would likely emphasize the importance of landownership, proposing it as a symbol of
stability and security. Lomov might showcase his own estate and present himself as a
practical and well-mannered suitor, omitting any mention of emotional compatibility
or romantic inclinations. The ad could stress the desire for a harmonious union based
on shared economic interests, steering clear of sentiments to align with the
pragmatic nature of his character.

b) Chubukov's Shortlisting Criteria: Chubukov, when scanning the matrimonial

section, would likely shortlist an advertisement that prioritizes economic advantages
and aligns with his desire for land consolidation. He would look for a prospective
son-in-law who emphasizes the practical benefits of the union, such as the expansion
of estates or economic prosperity. Chubukov might be drawn to advertisements
showcasing a suitor's social standing, financial stability, and commitment to
preserving family traditions. Emotional considerations or expressions of love might
not be significant for Chubukov, as he values practical and material aspects in a
potential son-in-law, reflecting the societal norms depicted in the play.

OR

(a) To find a bride like Natalya, Lomov would include the following
points in his matrimonial advertisement –
A tall and average-looking boy of high rank earns more than 500
pounds a year. Having inherited many real estate and owns a
magnificent house. He is looking for a suitable bride of equal status, not
more than 35 years of age, well-educated and should be an excellent
housekeeper.
(b) From the above advertisement, Chubukov would shortlist the points
that matter to him the most, like, financial status, monthly income, and
real estate net worth. If he finds everything matches his own status, he
would be ready to marry off his daughter Natalya to the advertiser.

ADJECTIVES

Lomov:

1. Nervous: Lomov often appears anxious and jittery, especially as he attempts

to propose to Natalya.
2. Well-intentioned: Despite his nervous demeanor, Lomov's initial intentions
are sincere as he plans to propose for love and practical reasons.
3. Argumentative: Lomov becomes easily embroiled in heated disputes,
particularly with Natalya and Chubukov, showcasing a tendency for
argumentation.
4. Formal: Lomov is characterized by a somewhat formal and traditional
approach to courtship and marriage, reflecting the societal norms of his time.
5. Indecisive: Lomov's indecision is evident in his wavering feelings and the
uncertainty surrounding his initial purpose for the visit.

Natalya:

1. Assertive: Natalya is a strong and assertive character, expressing her opinions

and desires forcefully throughout the play.
2. Passionate: She exhibits strong emotions, particularly when defending her
views on various matters, including the land dispute with Lomov.
3. Dramatic: Natalya's reactions and responses are often dramatic, adding a
layer of humor to the play's comedic elements.
4. Headstrong: Natalya is determined and resolute in pursuing what she wants,
even if it means engaging in arguments with Lomov and her father.
5. Impatient: Natalya displays impatience with Lomov's indecision and the
delays in the proposed marriage, showcasing her desire for quick action.

Chubukov:

1. Authoritative: Chubukov holds a position of authority in the play, especially

as the father figure, and exerts influence over Lomov's decision-making.
2. Pragmatic: Chubukov is practical and concerned with practical matters, such
as the consolidation of land through marriage.
3. Manipulative: He subtly manipulates Lomov into proposing to Natalya for
the sake of the land, highlighting a cunning aspect to his character.
 4. Protective: Chubukov's concerns about Natalya's potential loneliness and his
desire for her to be married reveal a protective side.
5. Fickle: Chubukov's attitude towards Lomov shifts abruptly, from suspicion to
sudden affection, showcasing a certain fickleness in his character.

The words and expressions that have been used to describe each other by various characters of the
play are
Chubukov: intriguer, grabber, old rat
Natalya: a lovesick cat, an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking’ well-educated.
Lomov: a good neighbour, impudent, pettifogger, malicious, double faced intriguer, rascal, blind hen,
turnip ghost, a villian, scare crow, stuffed sausage, etc.

WORDS
palpitations interfere implore thoroughbred pedigree principle evidence misfortune malicious
embezzlement architect neighbours accustomed temporary behaviour documents