Anton Chekhov Biography and Works.

Born on January 29, 1860, Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, popularly known as Anton Chekhov was a Russian physician, dramatist and author. He is considered to be among the greatest writers of short stories in history.

While a student, Chekhov published numerous short stories and humorous sketches under a pseudonym. While he was serving as a doctor, he kept writing and had success with his first books, and his first play ‘Ivanov’.

Gradually, Chekhov decreased his medical practice in favour of writing. He created his own style based on brevity, objectivity, originality and compassion.

He avoided stereotyping and instructive political messages in favour of cool comic irony.

His career as a dramatist produced four classics and his best short stories are held in high esteem. Chekhov had at first written stories only for financial gain, but as his artistic ambition grew, he made formal innovations which have influenced the evolution of the modern short story.

He died on July 15, 1904 in Badenweiler, Germany due to complications of lung tuberculosis.

Trivia

His drama, Uncle Vanya performed at the Donmar Warehouse, was awarded the 2005 Laurence Olivier Theatre Award for Best Revival of 2002.

Quote

“Medicine is my lawful wife,” he once said, “and literature is my mistress.”