Vanka Questions and Answers
Vanka
How was Vanka treated in the Alyakin house?
Vanka was treated very poorly in the Alyakin house, suffering regular beatings and humiliation. Alyakin beat him for minor mistakes, and his wife once rubbed a herring in his face. Vanka was also...
Vanka
The unique traits and specialities of the dog Eel in Anton Chekhov's "Vanka"
The dog Eel in Anton Chekhov's "Vanka" is notable for his intelligence and loyalty. He is described as a clever, resourceful dog who provides companionship and comfort to the protagonist, Vanka,...
Vanka
What is the significance of the title "Vanka" to its theme?
The story is called "Vanka" because that is the name of the protagonist in the story. As Vanka experiences great loneliness, which is the main theme of the story, the title makes this theme a lot...
Vanka
How would the meaning of "Vanka" change if it were narrated by Vanka?
Much of Anton Chekhov's "Vanka" is told from Vanka's perspective through his memories and his letter to his grandfather. The third-person narrator, however, does chime in to give readers descriptions...
Vanka
Will Vanka's letter reach his grandfather? Why or why not?
Vanka's letter is unlikely to reach his grandfather due to the incomplete address he provides. He only writes "To Grandfather in the village" and "To Konstantin Makarich," without specifying the...
Vanka
What is the difference between village and city life in Vanka?
In "Vanka," village life represents happiness and belonging for Vanka, while city life is marked by hardship and loneliness. In the city, Vanka suffers as an apprentice to a shoemaker, enduring...
Vanka
The point of view in "Vanka."
The point of view in "Vanka" is third-person limited. The story is narrated from the perspective of Vanka, a nine-year-old boy, providing insights into his thoughts and feelings as he writes a letter...
Vanka
What is the purpose of Vanka's letter?
The purpose of Vanka's letter is to plead with his grandfather to rescue him from his unhappy apprenticeship in Moscow. Vanka describes his loneliness and the physical abuse he endures, contrasting...
Vanka
What Christmas memories does Vanka cherish?
Vanka cherishes memories of Christmas in the countryside, contrasting them with his current life in Moscow. He fondly recalls the community spirit, where children sang carols and visited houses, a...
Vanka
What is the meaning of the following line from "Vanka" by Anton Chekhov?
The line from "Vanka" reflects the child's yearning for his grandfather's love and rescue from his miserable life. By asking his grandfather to save a gilded nut, Vanka evokes fond memories of past...
Vanka
What theme does Chekhov develop in "Vanka" through setting, contrast, and imagery?
In "Vanka," Chekhov develops the theme of the suffering and loss of innocence in children through setting, contrast, and imagery. Vanka's memories of his warm, loving village life starkly contrast...
Vanka
How does Moscow contrast with Vanka's village?
Moscow contrasts sharply with Vanka's village through its detachment from nature. Moscow is described as a "big town" with gentleman's houses, horses, and dogs, but lacks the sheep that are integral...
Vanka
Why is the Eel's "deferential manner and docility" considered a cloak for spite and malice in "Vanka"?
In "Vanka," the dog's "deferential manner and docility" is a facade for its true nature of malice and spite. Eel, the dog, appears harmless and obedient but uses this guise to engage in mischief,...
Vanka
What are some vivid descriptions of Grandad in "Vanka"?
Vivid descriptions of Grandad in "Vanka" are of him being a man who is nimble, lively, and joyful. Grandad is a night watchman who makes his rounds wearing a sheepskin and accompanied by two dogs....
Vanka
How does the grandfather in "Vanka" create a fun and laughter-filled atmosphere?
The grandfather in "Vanka" creates a fun and laughter-filled atmosphere through his playful and sociable nature. Vanka fondly recalls times when they would laugh together in the forest, with his...
Vanka
What promises does Vanka make to his grandfather to return home?
Vanka, desperate to escape his abusive apprenticeship, writes to his grandfather promising several things to persuade him to bring him home. He vows to prepare his grandfather's snuff, pray for him,...
Vanka
Do you agree with Makarich's decision to send Vanka to Moscow? Why?
Makarich's decision to send Vanka to Moscow likely aimed to provide him with an opportunity to learn a trade, believing it was in Vanka's best interest. Makarich might have thought Vanka had no...
Vanka
What does Vanka eat every day?
Vanka is given bread and porridge to eat every day. This is all part of the cruel treatment he receives while living with the shoemaker Alyakhin and his family.
Vanka
What evidence suggests that Vanka is afraid his letter won't be sent?
An indication that Vanka is afraid of being prevented from sending the letter can be found in the very first paragraph of the story. Before he starts to write, Vanka looks around fearfully at the...