The Cherry Orchard Essay Questions

What is Madame Ranevsky's character flaw? How is it expressed, and how does it affect the outcome of the play?

Describe the history of the relationship between Madame Ranevsky and Lopakhin. How does it change? What does this say about the historical period at the time of the play?

What does the cherry orchard signify? Discuss three characters and how their views of the orchard are similar or different.

Compare and contrast Trophimof and Anya's relationship with Madame Ranevsky and her lover in Paris.

What is Firs' significance in the play?

What is the significance of the exchange between Trophimof and Lopakhin in Act Four?

Why does Lophakin fail to propose to Barbara?

Trophimof declares himself a "free" character. Do you agree or disagree?

What does Charlotte's character represent in the play?

Why does Gayef play imaginary billiards through the play? What does this express about his character?

Compare and contrast Anya and Barbara. What are their characters like? How does the estate sale affect their futures?

Discuss how this play is a mixture of comedy and tragedy, and why Chekhov specifically categorized this play as a comedy.

How is Dunyasha an especially ironic character? Discuss in relation to her social status and her love of Yasha.

What does the play suggest about the relationship between economic wealth and freedom?