Who needs Cliff's Notes when you've got Schmidt's Notes?
It neither surprises nor pleases me to learn that this is the current actor's standard for Chekhov translations in America. I bought this as a text for an acting class, and I kept it because Chekhov was a great writer and no translator can change that. However, the plays collected in this volume aren't treated as literature. If they were, we wouldn't get twelve of them; the one-act comic sketches were, as Schmidt well knows, only written to make money. They certainly weren't intended as filler for the longer, more important and famous plays, which can be found in virtually every other Chekhov collection. Yet Schmidt gives them the same attention, and I myself sometimes find it hard to tell the difference. There are one or two of the less famous plays that I admire, but there are also plays by Chekhov that this volume leaves out.
If I were looking for an English version of Chekhov now, it would probably be an older volume, or perhaps a genuinely modern adaptation that made no claims to be an accurate rendering of the original Russian. I'm not categorically opposed to watching a performance of any one of these translations (I derived a rare enjoyment from performing them myself), but the Americanizing of the dialogue has chafed actors and directors alike, and I hardly think it was worth the effort.
To judge by the cover of this book, one would think its contents profoundly ugly.
Satisfied customer
This book arrived promptly in new condition. It is the best translation of Chekhov's plays I have ever read. Our play-reading group enjoyed reading it together.
best translation you can get for American Actors!!
Renowned Director and Chekhov afficionado David Cromer swears by this translation of Chekhov's greatest (and lesser-known as well) works. I agree, its truly the most accessible translation for the American mouth I've ever read/performed. Perfect for monologue auditions, or productions of your own. ACTORS, STUDENTS AND SCHOLARS ALIKE SHOULD ALL OWN THIS TRANSLATION!
Dislikes new translation
Although the author does a very good job putting the text of the plays into the modern English vernacular, I feel as though the works have had their flavor removed. If you are a purist, like I am, stick to the "old" translation.
A great set of plays and very readable
I haven't read Chekhov's plays in Russian so I can't say anything about the translation except that it is very readable.Chekhov had his own unique style in that his plays were usually mere verbal interaction with most significant action taking place offstage. Even though most of his plays, especially his four act plays, take place at rich, country houses far removed from any sort of normal life, he seems to pick out timeless themes of humanness in several characters and weave them together into an almost plotless commentary. The fact that his plays have endured as long as they have are a testament to his genius and his skill at seeing timeless ideas.
Chekhov's long plays are always revered and remembered as classics but this collection gives the reader a chance to see what an unbelievable short play writer he was. They have their own special feel apart from his longer works and give short little insights to the comedy and often comedic tragedy of human nature and human absurdity.
The Cherry Orchard, the Seagull, and Uncle Vanya are classic four acts by Chekhov but don't overlook Ivanov. It was one of his earlier ones and one of my favorites. Chekhov does a good job of making several unique characters and having them react around the central situation and an older man and a younger woman give you an interesting view at an interesting love story.
For short plays I would recommend "The Bear", "The Proposal", and "A Reluctant Tragic Hero". Especially in the Proposal Chekhov's comedy is especially portrayed.
This collection, in general, an all-around good read. Well worth reading this collection of one of the best playwrights.
(9 reviews)
