Question 2 of 14intermediate⚖️ EvaluateLong Answer5 marks

Chubukov says of Natalya: "… as if she won't consent! She's in love; egad, she's like a lovesick cat…" Would you agree? Find reasons for your answer.

Correct Answer

Yes, I completely agree with Chubukov's statement that Natalya is in love and behaves like a "lovesick cat".

Initially, Natalya's behavior seems completely contrary to love. She argues bitterly with Lomov over the ownership of land and the superiority of their dogs, even calling him a "rascal" and a "monster", which drives him away.

However, her true feelings are dramatically revealed the moment she learns that Lomov had actually come to propose to her. Her hostility instantly vanishes, replaced by sheer panic and desperation at the thought of losing him.

She falls into an easy-chair and wails, "Bring him back! Back! Ah! Bring him here." She goes into hysterics, claiming she is dying and desperately urging her father to fetch Lomov immediately.

This frantic, over-the-top reaction proves Chubukov's observation correct. Her extreme distress at nearly losing Lomov as a suitor confirms that she genuinely wants to marry him, making her behave exactly like a lovesick cat who cannot bear to be separated from her lover.

Exercise: Thinking about the Play | Q: 2 | (Page 16)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The question asks the student to evaluate Chubukov's claim about Natalya being a 'lovesick cat' using textual evidence. While Natalya initially fights with Lomov, her immediate and hysterical reaction upon learning he came to propose—wailing, demanding they bring him back, and claiming she is dying—proves she is indeed desperate to marry him, thus validating Chubukov's statement.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: State clear agreement with Chubukov's statement that Natalya is like a 'lovesick cat'.

  2. Step 2: Acknowledge the contrary evidence—Natalya's initial hostility and bitter arguments with Lomov over property and dogs, calling him a 'rascal' and 'monster'.

  3. Step 3: Highlight the turning point—Natalya's drastic change in demeanor upon discovering Lomov's true intention to propose.

  4. Step 4: Provide specific textual evidence of her desperation: falling into an easy-chair, wailing, going into hysterics, and shouting 'Bring him back!' and 'I'm dying! Fetch him!'.

  5. Step 5: Conclude that this extreme, frantic reaction confirms her deep desire to marry Lomov, perfectly fitting the description of a 'lovesick cat'.

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