"A Month in the Country" unfolds in the tranquil drawing room of Natalya, a 29-year-old wife and mother. Her confidant, Rakitin, listens as she shares her sole grievance about her husband, Islayev—his overzealous nature. Distracted by the popularity of a book among her friends, Natalya asks Rakitin to read to her, though she lacks any true interest.

The Game Room's Dynamics

In an adjoining room, a lively card game is under way. Schaaf, the German tutor, holds the lead until Lizaveta, the elderly companion of Islayev's mother, errs and draws his criticism. The doctor, Shpigelsky, enters with his typical flair, launching into an irrelevant anecdote. Shpigelsky's true purpose is to discuss a marriage proposal for Vera, but Natalya defers, citing Vera’s youth at only seventeen.

Enter Belyayev: The Energetic Tutor

Natalya's young son, Kolya, excitedly shares tales of his tutor, Belyayev, who has been residing with them for nearly a month. Belyayev, full of vigor, engages in youthful endeavors like kite-making. Vera, returning from play, admires Belyayev’s agility, comparing him to a squirrel. Despite Islayev's enthusiasm for his new machinery, only Rakitin shows genuine interest.

An Intriguing Conversation

With the room emptied, Natalya seizes the moment to converse with Belyayev. She praises his singing and inquires about his family, touched by the revelation of his orphaned status and a sibling sharing her name. Despite her warmth, Belyayev maintains a formal demeanor, reflecting his unease.

The Garden's Intimate Moments

Meanwhile, the maid Katya faces an awkward proposal from the butler. Schaaf's arrival, with an attempted serenade, only complicates matters, prompting Katya’s escape into the raspberry bushes. Vera and Belyayev soon emerge, working on the kite and indulging in shared raspberries. Their conversation reveals Belyayev’s impoverished past and Vera’s solitude, only to be interrupted by Natalya and Rakitin, prompting their discreet exit.

Concerns Over Vera

Natalya confides in Rakitin her worries about Vera’s burgeoning closeness with Belyayev. Rakitin grows suspicious, noticing Natalya’s distracted demeanor and dwindling interest in his nature musings. Curious, he approaches Belyayev and discovers his charming nature beneath his awkward exterior, sensing potential rivalry for Natalya’s affection despite Belyayev seeing her purely as an employer.

Shpigelsky's Matchmaking

Shpigelsky arrives with Bolshintsov, a timid neighbor intent on proposing to Vera. Despite Bolshintsov’s awkwardness, the doctor is eager to orchestrate the match, driven by the promise of three horses as a reward.

Rakitin Confronts Natalya

Natalya’s increasing aloofness towards Rakitin prompts him to confront her about her feelings for Belyayev. She admits the young tutor’s appeal, although she professes continued love for Rakitin. He tactfully suggests her obligations as a wife and guardian, proposing his and Belyayev’s departure as a solution.

Natalya and Vera's Heart-to-Heart

Adopting a sisterly tone, Natalya informs Vera of Bolshintsov’s proposal. Vera dismisses the idea with laughter, leading Natalya to gently probe her feelings. Vera’s confession of love for Belyayev confirms Natalya’s suspicions, leaving her torn between personal desire and duty. Summoning Belyayev, she cautions him about Vera’s youth and misunderstandings of friendship. Surprised by Vera's feelings, Belyayev offers his resignation, but Natalya implores him to reconsider.

Another Proposal

Shpigelsky, meanwhile, seizes the chance to propose to Lizaveta, detailing his flaws and financial status. Though Lizaveta playfully postpones her response, she is taken aback when Shpigelsky serenades her with a strange song about a goat.

Vera's Bold Move

Vera attempts to salvage the situation by confronting Belyayev with her understanding of Natalya’s warning about her affections. Resentful of Natalya’s matchmaking attempts, Vera hopes for Belyayev’s reciprocation, only to be met with silence. She divulges Natalya’s own affections for Belyayev, sparking tension when Natalya arrives. Vera accuses Natalya...