Lomov, Natalya & Chubukov: Marriage Proposal Quarrels
Why Natalya is Anxious to Marry Lomov
Natalya is described as a middle-aged woman. She understands that someone like Lomov might be her best chance for marriage. Therefore, the moment she learns that Lomov had come to propose to her, she becomes distraught, cries, shouts, and insists her father bring Lomov back.
Chubukov Joins the Quarrel
Chubukov enters and finds Natalya and Lomov quarrelling. When he discovers they are arguing about the ownership of the Oxen Meadows, he also becomes angry. Instead of calming them down, he joins the quarrel. He asserts his ownership of the Meadows and insults not only Lomov but also his ancestors.
The Second Quarrel: Guess vs. Squeezer
Lomov begins praising the qualities of his dog, Guess. However, Natalya counters that her dog, Squeezer, which she purchased for 85 roubles, is much better than Lomov’s dog Guess. Both praise the qualities of their respective dogs, leading them to quarrel again on this topic, shouting at each other.
Chubukov’s Guess About Lomov’s Visit
As Lomov calms himself and starts to explain the purpose of his visit, he mentions having sought Chubukov’s help many times in the past without success. Chubukov initially suspects that Lomov has come to ask for a loan and resolves not to lend him any money.
Why Lomov is Anxious to Marry Natalya
Lomov feels it’s time to settle the question of his marriage without further delay. He considers Natalya: she is a skilled housekeeper, educated, and not bad-looking. At his age, he believes he shouldn’t expect a better match. Furthermore, he suffers from some serious health issues. For these reasons, he is anxious to marry Natalya.
Why Chubukov Brought Lomov Back
When Natalya learned that Lomov had intended to propose marriage, she was startled and upset that he had left. She insisted that her father, Chubukov, bring Lomov back immediately. Though unwilling, Chubukov rushed out and persuaded Lomov to return.
Natalya’s Claim to Oxen Meadows
Natalya asserts that the Oxen Meadows have belonged to her family for nearly three hundred years. She is angered that Lomov suddenly lays claim to the land. She states that while the land isn’t highly valuable monetarily, she cannot let Lomov claim it as a matter of principle.
Lomov and Chubukov: Neighbors and Relations
Lomov and Chubukov are neighboring landowners. According to Lomov, he has previously sought help from Chubukov, who has assisted him before. They appear to have an ongoing dispute over the ownership of the Oxen Meadows, with each claiming it belongs to him. Lomov is interested in marrying Chubukov’s daughter, Natalya, whom he considers a suitable wife.
Lomov’s Visit and Chubukov’s Reaction
Lomov, a landowner, visits his neighbor Chubukov with the clear purpose of proposing marriage to his daughter, Natalya. He views her as a good housekeeper and reasonably attractive. Initially, Chubukov misunderstands Lomov’s intentions, thinking he has come to borrow money. However, upon learning about the marriage proposal, Chubukov becomes overjoyed and excited.
Chubukov’s Surprise at Lomov’s Formal Dress
When Ivan Lomov arrives to visit Chubukov, he is formally dressed in a dress-jacket and white gloves. Chubukov notices his attire and is surprised, remarking that it looks like Lomov is paying a New Year’s Eve visit. Only later does Chubukov realize that Lomov dressed formally specifically to make a marriage proposal.
Chubukov’s Reaction to the Marriage Proposal
Once the initial misunderstanding is cleared, and Chubukov learns that Lomov has come to propose to his daughter Natalya, not to borrow money, he is extremely happy. This is precisely what he had hoped for. He embraces and kisses Lomov, calling him “darling” and “angel,” and tells him he has been wishing for this for a long time, readily offering his blessing.