Chekhov and dogs
International writers, when asked to name authors whose books everyone must have in the home library, inevitably include Anton Chekhov in their list. I would recommend his short stories as an excellent introductory point to Russian literature at large. Answers to “life’s persistent questions” are in Chekhov’s oeuvre. I will even use fashionable pedagogical terminology – research-based approach – to show overwhelming response to this author. “Chekhov!” was the first command I taught my dog. Ever since, Bolshaya has never failed to respond.
Большая и Чехов
A bit of history: Bolshaya (Большая) is a two-year old Great Dane (датский дог) and my first pet adopted five months ago. I knew nothing about dogs beyond the childhood story of Каштанка. While looking for a trainer for the official canine education, I relied on my Russian library and was rewarded beyond expectations when I taught my dog to respond to the command “Чехов!” by joining me -and a Russian tome – on the sofa.
The Chekhovian trick proved to be a solid foundation for learning. Yesterday Bolshaya graduated from a training program with Rachel at Petsmart.
The Russian expression “собачья жизнь” (a dog’s life) refers to a life of hardships. None of them seem to apply to Bol’shaya. A closer study of her lifestyle will bring to memory the composition of the portrait of Meyerhold by Konchalovsky.
http://www.tretyakovgallery.ru/ru/collection/_show/image/_id/341
You will find Boshaya in the reclining position any time, so that a literary parallel with Oblomov comes to mind. “Обломовщина” is her chosen modus vivendi, and the family gladly join in.
Обломовщина
Two Oblomovs:
Tags: Chekhov, Great Dane, Kashtanka, Meyerhold, Oblomov, pets, Russian literature
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