It has been suggested that Astrov's initial conversation with the nurse acts as an overture to the play, hinting at the important issues that Vanya and others will later elaborate upon, just as a musical overture introduces certain melodic themes. How might Astrov's speech be viewed as an overture? Also, discuss how Sonya's concluding speech might be viewed as the play's finale.

Research the lives of peasants in Russia in the late-nineteenth century. What are the similarities and differences between the enslavement of African Americans in the U. S. and serfdom in Russia? Examine Marina and Telegin in Uncle Vanya and consider what Chekhov might be saying about the various classes in Russian society.

The characters in Uncle Vanya often discuss work and idleness. For instance, Astrov, in parting from Yelena, says: "You infected us with your slothfulness. I have lazed away...