by Anton Chekhov

Alexander Palace Time Machine
This site offers information about czarist Russia and allows you to take a virtual tour of the Alexander Palace. Imagine that you are either the driver or the traveler from The Inspector-General and use the information on this site to write a letter to a friend telling him or her about the palace and Alexander III, who reigned during the time of the play.

Anton Chekhov on Writing
This page provides Chekhov’s thoughts and advice on writing. Which of his comments make the most sense to you? Why? How did Chekhov follow his own advice in The Inspector-General? Record your answers in the Web Links Activity Log.

Anton Checkov
Read this biography of Chekhov to gain insight into the writer’s life and works. What do you think of his quotation, "All I wanted was to say honestly to people: 'Have a look at yourselves and see how bad and dreary your lives are!' The important thing is that people should realize that, for when they do, they will most certainly create another and better life for themselves." What is he saying here? Do his words apply to modern life? Discuss with your group.