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AN AVENGER

                                    AN AVENGER

The story “An Avenger” written by Anton Chekhov is based on the theme of infidelity, trust, revenge, shame and pride. From the beginning of the story it becomes clear to the reader that Chekhov may be experiencing infidelity. His wife had been unfaithful to him. To avenge his wife’s treachery he pays a visit to the gun shop; his intentions were impure.
However it is also noticeable that at times he also considered committing suicide  after murdering his wife and her lover. This signifies Sigaev’s appeal for sympathy from the society. He wants to play the role of the victim, justifying his deed to be rightful verdict, that he himself has done nothing wrong and that the onus of responsibility lies with his wife and her lover. He wanted to prove, that their tryst  have driven him to the point of madness.On further thinking, Sigaev realised it would be insane for him to take the law in his hands by killing his wife and her lover. Thus, he decided to end the matter by a divorce.
There is also a hint where Chekhov offers Sigaev the opportunity to think things through, which would prevent him to act on impulse. This makes him think clearer; he decides upon divorce rather than murdering his wife and her lover. By not acting on impulse Sigaev is able to think clearly about the course of action he will take. At the end of the day he wishes to be seen by society as the victim. It as though Sigaev longs to make a decision that will ensure that he is viewed upon sympathetically by the society. Although any man or woman may have difficulty letting go of their spouse’s infidelity, for Sigaev his ego matters. Rather than discussing what has happened to him with his wife and seeking some form of reconciliation. He appears to have a knee jerk reaction, this explains his motive on purchasing about a pistol.
This story makes us wonder how shallow a human might be, affording  oneself the opportunity to be viewed upon sympathetically by others. It is as though Sigaev’s only  complaint would be  if their pride is wounded. Though it is inappropriate to conduct a relationship with another person’s wife or husband, Sigaev does not at any stage in the story think that he might be at fault and it is also difficult for the reader to suggest that Sigaev is at fault. As mentioned Chekhov gives no background to Sigaev’s relationship with his wife. The entire story is focused upon how Sigaev feels and the importance of him being seen in a good light. Sigaev does not appear to mourn the fact that his wife has been unfaithful. Rather revenge is more important to Sigaev.
 
Group members name
1.    Abismoy Bhusan Sarma- 1640701
2.    Meha lal-1640715
3.    Oasge bhattacharya-1640718
4.    Shaini Banerjee-1640723

5.    Shruthi gupta- 1640724   

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