The Warning (play)

"The Warning" is a one-act play written by Anton Chekhov in 1884. It is a humorous and satirical piece that explores themes of social ambition, hypocrisy, and the absurdity of societal expectations within the Russian upper class. The play, sometimes translated as "On the Harmfulness of Tobacco," takes the form of a lecture given by Ivan Nyukhin, a hen-pecked husband, ostensibly on the dangers of tobacco use.

However, Nyukhin's lecture quickly devolves into a rambling, confessional monologue about his miserable life, his overbearing wife, and his numerous daughters. He reveals his dissatisfaction with his forced marriage and his subservient role within his family. He struggles to maintain the facade of a serious lecture, frequently digressing and openly lamenting his circumstances.

The play is characterized by its dark humor, its portrayal of a downtrodden individual, and its critique of social conventions. Nyukhin's character is both pathetic and sympathetic, a man trapped by societal expectations and his own inability to break free. "The Warning" provides a brief but insightful glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the pressures of social conformity. Its enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes of frustration, discontent, and the search for personal freedom, even in the face of overwhelming odds. The play is often performed as a standalone piece or as part of a collection of Chekhov's short plays.