What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is he sincere when he later says "And I've always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son"? Find reasons for your answer from the play.
At first, Chubukov suspects that Lomov has come to borrow money. When Lomov enters nervously and mentions he has come with a request for help, Chubukov says in an aside, "He’s come to borrow money. Shan’t give him any!"
Chubukov is not sincere when he later says, "And I've always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son."
His true, selfish nature is exposed by his initial reaction. Instead of treating Lomov like a son, he immediately assumes the worst and decides to refuse him financial help. This clearly contradicts his later claim of fatherly affection.
Furthermore, his exaggerated display of love occurs only after he learns that Lomov has come to propose to his daughter, Natalya. He is simply overwhelmed by the relief and joy that his twenty-five-year-old daughter is finally getting married. He himself admits he is "off my balance with joy" over the proposal, proving that his sudden affection for Lomov is entirely insincere and driven by his own self-interest.
Explanation
The question tests the student's understanding of Chubukov's character and his hypocritical nature in the play 'The Proposal'. Initially, Chubukov is suspicious and cold, assuming Lomov wants money, which he refuses to give. However, the moment he realizes Lomov is proposing to his daughter, his attitude completely flips. He uses exaggerated, fake affection, calling Lomov his 'angel' and 'own son'. Students must identify this contrast using the specific aside Chubukov makes about the money, and his own admission of being 'off his balance with joy' to prove his insincerity.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify Chubukov's initial suspicion from the text. He makes an aside saying, 'He’s come to borrow money. Shan’t give him any!'
Step 2: State whether Chubukov is sincere in his later declaration of love. The answer is no, he is insincere.
Step 3: Provide the first reason: His aside about not lending money proves he does not truly care for Lomov like a son, showing his selfishness.
Step 4: Provide the second reason: His sudden affection is a reaction to the marriage proposal, and he himself admits he is 'off my balance with joy', showing his words are driven by relief for his daughter, not genuine love for Lomov.