The Bet and How Much Land Does a Man Need.
"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 arrogant manner is the very reason that this story unfolds. His statement, "I think that capital punishment is more moral and humane than imprisonment.", sparks a lively debate that results in the lawyer willing to bet fifteen years of confinement against two million dollars from the banker. During those fifteen years, the lawyer chooses to better educate himself, while the banker squanders away his fortune. The banker's attempt to kill the lawyer before the bet is complete is foiled by the lawyer himself who has already decided to renounce his claim to the money. This poses a wonderful twist to the story. .
In "How Much Land Does a Man Need", it is Pahom's sister-in-law who provides the motivation for Pahom's greed. Her statement, "However much your good man may slave, you"ll die as you live-in a dung heap-and your children the same.
