The Beggar
About the Writer: Anton Chekhov
Anton Chekhov was one of Russia’s greatest short-story writers and dramatists. He was born on 29 January 1860 in Taganrog, Russia. Chekhov was known for writing realistic stories that dealt with human emotions, ordinary life, and social issues. His works often reflect kindness, compassion, and the struggles of common people.
Some of his famous works are The Three Sisters, The Cherry Orchard, and Uncle Vanya. Chekhov died on 15 July 1904, but his writings continue to inspire millions across the world.
Story: The Beggar
“Kind sir, have pity; turn your attention to a poor, hungry man! For three days I have had nothing to eat...” — with these words a ragged beggar stood before Sergei, a wealthy advocate.
The beggar first claimed he was a village schoolteacher, but Sergei recognized him from another day when he had said he was a student. Cornered, the beggar finally confessed: he was neither a teacher nor a student, but a former choir singer who had been dismissed for drunkenness. He said he lied only because the truth fetched him nothing.
Sergei angrily told him that instead of begging, he should work. He offered him a job chopping wood. The beggar unwillingly agreed—not because he wanted to work, but because he felt ashamed.
Sergei’s cook, Olga, took him to the shed. She scolded him harshly and then helped him chop the wood, because the man was weak from drinking.
The beggar returned every month and was given work. Sometimes he was paid money, sometimes given trousers, and sometimes asked to shovel snow or tidy things. Slowly, he stopped drinking and became more disciplined.
Years later, Sergei met him again at a theatre. The beggar, now named Lushkoff, was no longer homeless — he had become a notary earning thirty-five roubles a month.
Sergei proudly said that it was his advice that changed him, but Lushkoff humbly revealed the truth — it was Olga, the cook, who changed him. She scolded him, cried for him, and even did his work until his heart softened. Her compassion and kindness transformed him.
The story ends with Lushkoff grateful to Olga for saving his life and giving him dignity.
Word Meaning
- Copeck – Russian coin
- Calumny – False accusation
- Mendicant – Beggar
- Perplexity – Confusion
- Sot – Drunkard
NCERT Exercise Question Answers
- Has Lushkoff become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?
Ans. Lushkoff became a beggar due to circumstances. He lost his job because of drunkenness and could not find work. - What reasons does he give to Sergei for his telling lies?
Ans. He says he lies because people do not help him when he tells the truth. So, he makes up stories to gain sympathy. - Is Lushkoff a willing worker? Why then does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?
Ans. No, he is not a willing worker. He agrees to chop wood only out of shame and because he had been caught lying. - Sergei says, “I am happy that my words have taken effect.” Why does he say so?