Cambridge Companion To Chekhov, The

Description:
This volume of specially commissioned essays explores the world of Anton Chekhov - one of the most important dramatists in the repertoire - and the creation, performance and interpretation of his works. The Companion begins with an examination of Chekhov's life, his Russia, and the original productions of his plays at the Moscow Art Theatre. Later film versions and adaptations of Chekhov's works are analysed, with valuable insights also offered on acting Chekhov, by Ian McKellen, and directing Chekhov, by Trevor Nunn and Leonid Heifetz. The volume also provides essays on 'special topics' such as Chekhov as writer, Chekhov and women, and the Chekhov comedies and stories. Key plays, such as The Cherry Orchard and The Seagull, receive dedicated chapters while lesser-known works and genres are also brought to light. The volume concludes with appendices of primary sources, lists of works, and a select bibliography.

Review:
'...there is a great deal of information here to use to those seeking a deeper appreciation of Chekhov, especially in regard to the performance history of his plays.' Nineteenth-Century Contexts 'well-conceived and well-executed collection that deepens and enriches our understanding of Chekhov's drama.' Russian Review Vol 60/4

Table of Contents:
List of illustrations; Acknowledgements; Notes on contributors; Chekhov: a chronology Paul Allain; Editorial notes: transliteration and titles, calendar dates; Part I. Chekhov in Context: 1. Dr Chekhov: a biographical essay Alexander Chudakov; 2. Chekhov and his Russia Emma Polotskaya; 3. Chekhov and the Moscow Art Theatre Anatoly Smeliansky; Part II. Chekhov in Production: 4. From Platonov to Piano Edward Braun; 5. Chekhov's one-act plays and the full-length plays Vera Gottlieb; 6. Ivanov: the invention of a negative dramaturgy Patrice Pavis; 7. The Seagull: an adaptation Thomas Kilroy; 8. Notes from a director: Leonid Heifetz on Uncle Vanya Leonid Heifetz; 9. Notes from a director: Trevor Nunn on Three Sisters Trevor Nunn; 10. The Cherry Orchard Edward Braun; 11. Acting Chekhov: 'A Friend to the Actor' Ian McKellen; 12. The scenography of Chekhov Arnold Aronson; 13. Chekhov on screen Philip French; 14. Chekhov on the Russian stage Tatiana Shakh-Azizova; 15. Directors' Chekhov Laurence Senelick; Selected glossary Laurence Senelick; Part III. Chekhov the Writer: 16. Chekhov's stories and the plays Donald Rayfield; 17. The stage representation of Chekhov's women Cynthia Marsh; 18. Chekhov's comedy Vera Gottlieb; Appendix A: Chekhov's works: primary sources from the Russian: variations of English titles; Appendix B: Select stage productions; Appendix C: Select screen versions; Select bibliography; Index.