What makes Anton Chekhov's top short stories so remarkable?

His ability to create complex characters. For example, in 'The Lady with the Dog', the characters are not simply good or bad, but full of contradictions, just like real people.

Anton Chekhov's 'A Dreary Story' is a top short story. It is a story of an aging professor who reflects on his life and the hollowness he feels. He has achieved professional success but is lacking in personal fulfillment. Also, 'The Chameleon' is quite famous. It shows the fickleness of a police officer as he changes his attitude towards a suspect depending on what he believes the suspect's social status might be.

Anton Chekhov's stories are masterpieces. His top stories often deal with the human condition. For example, 'The Lady with the Dog' shows the complex nature of love and relationships. It's a story that delves deep into the emotions of the characters, making the readers feel as if they are part of the story. The way he describes the settings also adds to the overall mood, like the sea in that story, which seems to mirror the turmoil in the characters' hearts.

Some of his famous short stories include 'The Lady with the Dog'. It tells a story of an affair between a married man and a married woman, exploring themes of love and moral ambiguity.

Anton Chekhov's love short stories often feature complex characters. His characters' love is not always straightforward; it can be filled with hesitation, unspoken feelings, and internal conflicts. For example, in some stories, the characters may be in love but are held back by social status or family expectations.

Another great short story from his list is 'The Bet'. In this story, a banker and a young lawyer make a bet regarding the nature of life imprisonment. It's a thought - provoking tale that delves into the value of life, freedom, and human nature. It shows how a long - term bet can change the perspectives of the two parties involved, and makes the readers think about what they would do in such a situation.

I also like 'A Day in the Country'. It presents a simple day in the country side but with such detailed descriptions of the scenery and the people. It gives a sense of peace and yet also shows the underlying currents of the characters' lives.

One common theme is the human condition. Chekhov often explored the quiet desperation and unfulfilled dreams of his characters. For example, in 'The Lady with the Dog', the theme of love and the complications that come with it are central. Another theme is the passage of time and how it affects people. His characters are often in a state of flux, changing as they experience different events. Social class differences also play a role. He shows how people from different classes interact and the misunderstandings that can occur.

The themes of isolation and loneliness are prevalent. Many of his characters seem to be alone in their thoughts and experiences, even when surrounded by others. Additionally, the idea of missed opportunities is a theme. Characters might have had a chance at love or a better life but let it slip away due to various reasons like indecision or social constraints.

One characteristic is their realism. Chekhov's short stories often depict real - life situations and people in a very accurate way. For example, in 'The Lady with the Dog', the characters' emotions and actions are so true to life that readers can easily relate to them.