The Cherry Orchard as Political and Social Play | Anton Chekhov

Learn about the political and social themes in Anton Chekhov's play, The Cherry Orchard. This video delves into the deeper meaning of the play and its relevance to the time period in which it was written. Whether you're a fan of Chekhov or just curious about Russian literature, this analysis will provide new insights into this classic piece of theatre.

The play “The Cherry Orchard” focuses on the importance of socialism and change which is regarded as one of the most discussed political and social plays. It was written at the time of the downfall of the aristocracy and the rise of the middle class in Russia. The noble class was enjoying the luxuries of life without doing anything; it even was not paying taxes. Serfs were there to work for them. The communist revolution ended in the year 1917 but its beginning was very vital. Russia witnessed social and political change. The middle class started feeling proud of their class as many nobles were unable to defend their estates.

Russia was divided into two main classes. The first class was of serfs whereas the second was of aristocrats. The life of serfs was miserable. They were working hard but gaining nothing. On the other hand, aristocrats were doing nothing yet their life was prosperous. The play “The Cherry Orchard” demonstrates social and political change with respect to these two classes. Lopakhin represents the class of serfs whereas Mrs Ranevsky represents the aristocratic class. The play starts when Lopakhin becomes a good businessman. Ranevsky’s estate is going to be auctioned. Indeed, the play “The Cherry Orchard” is about the social and political conditions of Russia in those days.

Feudalism was at its peak and the middle class was wretched due to their worst behaviour. Thus a change was required. The middle class raised voices against it and remained successful in throwing away the pride of the noble class. It is evident from this play. The character of Lopakhin can be referred to here. His ancestors were serfs. They were working hard for Ranevsky’s family even though they were living a miserable life. After the social and political change in Russia, improvement in Lopakhin’s condition is witnessed. He has new ideas. He can think freely. His lifestyle has improved. He himself is getting the fruits of his labour instead of giving them to his masters as he and his forefathers used to. On the other hand, the Ranevsky family is in danger. In order to pay large taxes, they need money. In case of failure, Ranevsky’s estate would be auctioned. Similarly, Boris Simeonov Pishchik is also facing the same problem; however, he manages to save his estate with the help of Mrs Ranevsky. Anton Chekhov captured a clear picture of Russian society in “The Cherry Orchard” and showed the social and political change in Russia in this play.

Some other elements of the play also indicate a change in Russia. For instance, time and again industrial development has been symbolized. In order to pay the debts, Lopakhin suggests the Ranevsky family cut down the cherry orchard and make small plots for industrial purposes. This idea actually symbolizes the industrial revolution in Russia. Small gardens and orchards were cut. Plots were made and used for industrial purposes. Similarly, we see railway tracks were added in order to upgrade rural areas to urban areas. The middle class was in a hurry to cooperate in this regard. For example, at the end of the play when Lopakhin purchases the estate, he immediately cuts down the orchard. He adopts the same solution to pay taxes that he once gave to Mrs Ranevsky. Sounds of axes can be heard at the end of the play. Thus, the middle class was in hurry to cooperate with the State.

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