This drives the banker to devise a desperate plan to kill the lawyer. During the time the lawyer spends in prison, his fortune starts to fall and he is unable to pay the lawyer. The story reveals the human nature of money as a factor in the outcome of the bet. Ultimately, spirituality and wisdom come about only through sacrifice. Chekov wants us to realize the hypocrisy of humanity, and that all of us are bound by false ideologies. Chekov's story is not just about life imprisonment and the death penalty it's also about achieving enlightenment through sacrifice. Ultimately, the lawyer loses and the banker wins. The climax of the story involves a bet that has a dramatic effect on both men. In 'The Bet,' the lawyer is forced to face the conflict between his own pride and the desires of others, as well as the conflict between man and nature. The banker hates the lawyer because he believes that he is the real prisoner in the story.Ĭhekhov's satire highlights the nature of greed, and how greedy individuals are inclined to make decisions that are not in their best interests. Ultimately, Chekhov reveals the truth behind the two characters.

While the banker believes that death comes quickly, the lawyer believes that we must accept it, as it is inevitable. Ultimately, the story shows that life is precious and gives insight into the nature of death. In 'The Bet,' Anton Chekhov explores the contrasting ideologies that lead to different outcomes. In addition, the story demonstrates the inevitability of death.Īnton Chekhov's short story about a bet between a banker and a lawyer It is a classic tale of moral ambiguity and human decency.

The Bet is a short story by Anton Chekhov about a bet between a lawyer and banker.

The bet chekhov