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SAI International School
Grade IX - English
Chapter - The Beggar
Lesson Notes

Introduction of the Lesson:

‘The Beggar’ is the story of the transformation of a beggar into a
good person. The behaviour of a woman made him leave alcohol
and lead a good life.

About the Author

This story is written by Anton Chekhov. He was born in Russia in
1879. He studied medicine at Moscow University but he is known as
a writer of stories and plays. He started writing stories even when
he was a student. He died of tuberculosis in 1904 just at the age of
44. Today he is regarded as one of the greatest short story writers
in the world.

Theme:

The story is based on the theme of transformation of a depraved
alcoholic through kindness, compassion and selflessness. Olga’s
words and noble deeds changed Lushkoff’s heart. He gave up
drinking and mended his truant ways. Another theme that runs
through the story is gratitude. Lushkoff had become weak because
of alcoholism and was no longer able to work. He resorted to telling
lies and begging in order to survive. But when he received
kindness, he acknowledged it with gratitude and remained indebted
to Olga for life.

Title:

The story is about the transformation of a beggar, Lushkoff who is
helped by two different people in two different ways. The beggar is
poor because he does not have any money and also because he
does not have any integrity of character. He requires alms to feed
himself and also genuine help to feed his impoverished soul. A

prosperous advocate, Sergei and his noble cook, Olga help the
beggar, Lushkoff to come out of his miserable life and live
respectively. The title ‘the Beggar” is apt as it highlights the plight