| Abstract [eng] |
The article deals with semantics of the image of the garden in the prose by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov; the aim is to investigate its functioning in the chosen literary pieces as well as its relation to other chronotopes defining space. The definition of the semantic fi eld of forms of spatial modelling in Chekhov’s narration is determined in relation to such factors as cultural traditions, way of life, psychological features of characters, and sometimes the notional fi eld is expanded with regard to mythological or biblical associations (e.g. the garden as the projection of the garden of the lost paradise). Major words-images which model the space of Chekhov’s prose are chronotopes “home” and “garden”. In the article, special attention is paid to their interrelation and antinomy. In Chekhov’s poetry, a garden may be analysed as part of nature, landscape; moreover, in times of the writer, not only fruit trees but also other trees nowadays considered as plants of parks or forests were attributed to gardens. It should be noted that stereotypical treatment of the garden image as the symbol of life in some pieces by Chekhov is rejected. The work demonstrates how traditional symbols of the garden and apples meaning wealth, success, harmony etc. are endowed with the opposite meaning in a piece by Chekhov – it turns into a parody, the means for mocking at a person with a poor soul. In Chekhov’s prose, the garden has numerous meanings. It may be the place for refreshment of the hero’s soul who is tired from oppressive atmosphere of home, the source of living for a skilled businessman, the space for a sincere conversation or even an intimate disclosure. Moreover, the image of the garden in literary works by Chekhov helps to reveal the spiritual potential of a character and deepen one’s psychological characteristics. |
