By smartcubs Skvortsov is a significant character in Anton Chekhov’s short story “The Beggar.” As a wealthy and educated man, he plays a crucial role in the life of the story’s protagonist, Lushkoff. Through his interactions with Lushkoff, Skvortsov’s character is revealed to be complex, combining elements of generosity, strictness, and a desire for social justice.
Introduction
Skvortsov is a well-to-do advocate who encounters Lushkoff, a beggar, and becomes a key figure in transforming Lushkoff’s life. His actions and attitudes towards Lushkoff reflect his values and beliefs about hard work, responsibility, and the potential for personal change.
Physical Appearance
- Professional Appearance: Skvortsov is likely well-dressed and maintains a professional appearance, consistent with his status as an advocate. His attire reflects his position in society and his sense of responsibility.
Personality Traits
- Compassionate: Skvortsov shows compassion towards Lushkoff despite initially being harsh. He is moved by Lushkoff’s plight and takes steps to help him.
- Strict: He is strict and expects others to adhere to his principles of hard work and honesty. This strictness is evident when he scolds Lushkoff for his dishonesty in begging.
- Generous: Skvortsov’s generosity is evident in his willingness to help Lushkoff find work and support him in becoming self-sufficient.
Behavior and Attitudes
- Moralistic: Skvortsov has a strong sense of morality and believes in the value of honest work. He disapproves of Lushkoff’s deceitful ways of earning money and urges him to change.
- Pragmatic: He is practical in his approach to helping Lushkoff. Instead of giving him money, Skvortsov offers him opportunities to work and earn a living.
- Empathetic: Despite his initial sternness, Skvortsov empathizes with Lushkoff’s situation and understands the difficulties that lead people to beg.
Emotional Traits
- Sympathetic: Skvortsov’s sympathy towards Lushkoff is genuine, even if it is coupled with a desire to see him improve his life. His sympathy motivates him to take action to help Lushkoff.
- Patient: He demonstrates patience in dealing with Lushkoff, giving him multiple chances to prove himself and change his ways.
Key Incidents
- Confronting Lushkoff: Skvortsov first encounters Lushkoff when he is begging. Skvortsov confronts him about his deceitful behavior and offers him work instead of alms.
- Providing Opportunities: Over time, Skvortsov provides Lushkoff with various opportunities to earn money through honest work. This includes offering him simple tasks and later helping him secure a stable job.
Relationships
- With Lushkoff: Skvortsov’s relationship with Lushkoff evolves from one of confrontation to mentorship. He plays a pivotal role in Lushkoff’s transformation from a beggar to a respectable, self-sufficient individual.
- With Society: As an advocate, Skvortsov represents a figure of authority and respect within society. His actions reflect his desire to contribute positively to his community.
Lessons Learned
- Impact of Compassion: Skvortsov’s character demonstrates the impact that compassion and practical support can have on transforming a person’s life.
- Importance of Honesty: His insistence on honest work and personal responsibility highlights the importance of integrity in achieving long-term success and self-respect.
Final Traits
- Mentor: By the end of the story, Skvortsov emerges as a mentor figure who has successfully guided Lushkoff towards a better life.
- Respected: His actions earn him respect, not just from Lushkoff, but from others who recognize his genuine efforts to help those in need.
Conclusion
Skvortsov’s character in “The Beggar” is a blend of strictness and compassion, reflecting a deep belief in the potential for human transformation through honest work and support. His role as a mentor and his pragmatic approach to helping Lushkoff reveal his complex and admirable nature.