The story revolves around Madame Ranevskaya's struggle to cope with her grief, financial ruin, and the impending loss of her cherished estate. Her inability to adapt to the changing socioeconomic dynamics reflects the broader themes of societal transformation. Engaging with a cast of characters who each represent different responses to change, the narrative unfolds as a poignant exploration of nostalgia and progress.

Madame Ranevskaya's Return

Following the tragic drowning of her young son Grischa, and just a year after her husband's death, Madame Ranevskaya seeks solace in Paris. She remains there for five years, hoping to distance herself from her sorrows. As Easter approaches, she decides to return to her estate in Russia and summons her teenage daughter, Anya, to accompany her. To finance this journey, she sells her villa in Mentone, leaving her with no other assets. Upon her arrival, she is devastated to learn that her estate, including its renowned cherry orchard, is to be auctioned off to clear her debts.

Lopakhin's Practical Proposal

Heartbroken at the thought of losing her childhood home, Madame Ranevskaya finds her old friend Lopakhin offering a business proposition. Once a serf on her family's estate, Lopakhin suggests that by cutting down the orchard and dividing the land into rentable lots, she could generate a yearly income of twenty-five thousand rubles. Despite the practicality of the idea, Madame Ranevskaya and her family are appalled by the notion of such a drastic change to their beloved estate.

Family's Unrealistic Hopes

The family clings to the hope of a miracle that might save their estate. Madame Ranevskaya's brother, Gaev, who is supposed to manage the estate, entertains fanciful ideas but fails to offer a practical solution. He dreams of inheriting a fortune, arranging a wealthy marriage for Anya, or receiving aid from their affluent aunt, who disapproves of Madame Ranevskaya's choice in marriage. Gaev remains deeply entrenched in his old habits, such as playing billiards and eating sweets, rather than taking action.

Household's Varied Reactions

The rest of the household is similarly caught up in futile dreams. Varya, Madame Ranevskaya's adopted daughter, places her faith in divine intervention. Neighboring landowner Pischin, having just been rescued financially by selling part of his land to the railway, suggests they simply wait for a solution to present itself.

Lopakhin's Perspective

Lopakhin, having worked tirelessly to improve his lot, is bewildered by the family's refusal to act. Despite his success, he is acutely aware of his roots, feeling like a peasant among the aristocrats. His attempts at self-education are met with challenges, as he often dozes off over books. Contemplating the cherry orchard, he reflects on its significance, viewing it as a symbol of his ancestors' oppression, a sentiment echoed by Trofimov, Grischa's former tutor, who conveys this to Anya.

The Auction and Its Aftermath

The estate's auction marks a turning point. In a final gesture of denial, Madame Ranevskaya hosts a grand ball at the house. Loyal servant Fiers supports her unwaveringly. Lopakhin arrives with news of his purchase of the estate for ninety thousand rubles above the mortgage, announcing his intention to fell the orchard. Overwhelmed, Madame Ranevskaya weeps and resolves to return to Paris.

Impact on the Household

The sale affects the household deeply. Gaev is offered a job at a bank that he is unlikely to retain due to his indolence. Yasha, Madame Ranevskaya’s servant, welcomes the opportunity to escape to Paris, while Dunyasha, the maid, sees her hopes of marrying Yasha dashed, resigning herself to a future with the ineffectual clerk Yephodov. Varya finds a new position as a housekeeper nearby. Pischin's fortunes improve as valuable minerals are discovered on his land, allowing him to repay his debt to Madame Ranevskaya. Meanwhile, Fiers remains indifferent to material concerns, his sole worry being Gaev's inappropriate choice of coat as they leave for the train station.