The Duel and Other Stories

Six selections from the famed Russian author Anton Chekhov showcase his natural aptitude for detail, dialogue, humor, and compassion. The story primarily focuses on Ivan Andreich Laevsky and Nadyezhda Fyodorovna, lovers who have moved to the Caucasus. Nadezhda is married to another man and some townspeople disapprove of the couple living together. Laevsky confides in his friend Samoylenko that he no longer loves Nadyezhda. Laevsky drinks, gambles, and lacks direction.