Compare and Contrst

“The Bet” by Anton Chehkov and “How Much Land Does a Man Need” by Leo Tolstoy are both short stories that focus on the effects of greed, but there are many other similarities and differences between these two stories. By comparing and contrasting the setting, the plot and the characters, the evidence will show that the two stories have a similar theme, each with a different conflict.

The setting establishes the time and place and sets the mood for each story. In “The Bet”, the story takes place in various rooms on the banker’s property over a time period of fifteen years. It is more structured and precise in description, indicating a more intense tone throughout the tale. In “How Much Land Does a Man need”, the tale is told over an unspecific time frame and is set over a vast amount of countryside in Russia. There appears to be less emphasis on structure and detail, which indicates a more relaxed atmosphere throughout the story.

The plot reveals a different conflict that is unique to each story. In “The Bet”, the banker’s arrog

In, “How Much Land Does a Man Need”, there are several antagonists who provide a conflict throughout the story, but the protagonist, Pahom is the only character with any significant role. Pahom’s character lacks self-discipline and is easily persuaded. He states at the beginning, “If I had plenty of land, I shouldn’t fear the devil himself.” This phrase is echoed throughout the story after Pahom encounters someone who knows of or has land for sale. Each time Pahom feels content with his land, another stranger appears to tempt him with a better life and more land. In the end, when Pahom finally recognizes his desire for land to be greed, it is too late.

The conflicts that are portrayed in each of the stories are very different, yet they provide a similar theme; the pursuit of wealth for happiness, often leads to corruption and/or death.

The banker, who was spoiled and frivolous, initially views the bet to be amusing. It is later on, while reflecting on that evening that he realizes the absurdity of it all. Unlike the lawyer, the banker learned nothing from the bet; his concern was only for himself and the loss

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