Masters of the Theater

Bringing Overlooked and Lesser-Known History into Focus

January 2nd

Masters of the Theater

1900

My greetings, dear actress! Are you angry that I haven’t written for so long? I used to write often, but you didn’t get my letters because our common acquaintance intercepted them in the post. I wish you all happiness in the New Year. I really do wish you happiness and bow down to your little feet. Be happy, wealthy, healthy, and gay… Well, the best of health to you, dear, wonderful actress. I have been pining for you.

Anton Chekhov, in a letter to his future wife Olga Knipper —

Anton Chekhov, one of the most celebrated playwrights and short story writers, is known for capturing the depth of human emotion and the complexities of relationships. Some of his most renowned works include The Cherry Orchard and Three Sisters. Chekhov also wrote many personal letters, revealing his inner life and thoughtful personality. Often offering insights into his views on life and art, many of his letters reflect his belief in authenticity, both in writing and in on stage performance.

As highlighted in the letter above, he often wrote to his future wife, Olga Knipper. These letters blend heartfelt affection, humor, and poetic imagery, giving us a glimpse of the man behind the masterpieces and showing how his personal and artistic lives were deeply intertwined. Chekhov and Knipper married in 1901, and many find similarities between Olga and Masha, the character Chekhov wrote for her in Three Sisters.

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