HOMEWORK 3.1: THe Lottery Ticket by Anton Chekhov

Read the short story The Lottery Ticket by Anton Chekhov. Answer these questions.

  1. Setting:

    • Where does the story take place? Describe the initial atmosphere and mood.

  2. Characters:

    • Who are the main characters in the story? Provide a brief description of each.
      • Ivan Dmitritch:
      • Masha:

  3. Plot:

    • What event prompts the characters to think about their future?
    • How do Ivan and Masha feel at first when they think they might win the lottery? How do their feelings change as the story progresses?

  4. Key Events:

    • What is the turning point in the story? How do the characters’ thoughts and behavior shift from this moment?
    • What does Ivan imagine doing if he wins the lottery? How does this influence his attitude towards Masha?

Critical Thinking Questions

  1. Themes:

    • What are the major themes of the story? (Consider greed, human nature, and the effects of wealth.)

  2. Character Dynamics:

    • How do Ivan and Masha’s attitudes toward each other change over the course of the story? Why do you think their relationship transforms so quickly?

  3. Irony:

    • What is ironic about the ending of the story? How does Chekhov use irony to communicate his message?

  4. The Role of Money:

    • How does the possibility of winning the lottery affect Ivan and Masha’s relationship? What does this suggest about the role of money in human lives?
  • Personal Response:
    • How would you react if you thought you had won a lottery? Do you think money changes people? Explain your thoughts.
  • Moral of the Story:
    • What lesson do you think Chekhov wants readers to take away from “The Lottery Ticket”?