Anton Chekhov: A Life - Hardcover

Rayfield, Donald

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0805057471 ISBN 13: 9780805057478

Publisher: Henry Holt & Co, 1998

Synopsis

A professor of Russian literature at the University of London presents a vivid, definitive biography, the product of five years of research into the Chekhov archives in Russia and the discovery of thousands of documents and letters. 20,000 first printing.

About this title

Review:

A noted scholar of the art of Anton Chekhov now turns to his life (1860-1904), with equally revelatory results. Rayfield's densely documented account avoids general statements in favor of quiet accumulation of detail that gradually creates a multifaceted impression of Chekhov's contradictions. Witty, charming, and an ardent lover of women, Russia's greatest dramatist was also coolly detached, capable of capriciousness and considerable cruelty. In Anton Chekhov, Rayfield does not attempt to tidy up a messily complex psyche or to downplay the faults that were as intrinsic to Chekhov's genius as were his merits.

About the Author:

Donald Rayfield is professor of Russian literature at Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London. His books include Chekhov: The Evolution of His Art and Catastrophe and Comedy: Chekhov's Cherry Orchard.

About this edition

• Publisher: Henry Holt & Co
• Publication date: 1998
• ISBN 10: 0805057471
• ISBN 13: 9780805057478
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 674