In the excerpt from ​Anton Chekhov​’s short story “​The Lady with the Dog​,” C

​ hekhov ​subtly
illustrates the complex nature of ​Gurov a
​ nd ​Anna​’s relationship between themselves as well as
with the setting: a relationship based upon the natural beauty of simplicity and purity.

This concept is first established through narration, specifically that which concerns ​Gurov​’s inner
dialogue in general musings. In the beginning, it is revealed that an attractive aspect of ​Anna​‘s
character to ​Gurov ​is how she retains “​the purity of a good, simple woman who had seen little of
life​.” While the simplicity may be misconstrued as naïve on the part of ​Anna ​it has more in
common with the artistic appreciation of minimalism; in this case, minimalism within one’s
personality. This is enforced by the fact that ​Gurov ​dismisses her concerns regarding the
morality of their affair, becoming “​irritated by [her] naïve tone​.” However, he still finds her
simplicities attractive. Instead, the latter half of the statement to ​Anna​’s simplicity impurity
implies that there was causality between “​see[ing] little of life​” and these aforementioned
characteristics. This establishes that ​Gurov ​finds the complexities of society and general
humanity, as well as their effect on the individual, to be unsavory. Later on, in the excerpt, ​Anna
begins vocalizing her sentiment that partaking in an extramarital affair has corrupted her
virtuousness and morality. She explains that in her marriage, she “​wanted something better​.”
She “​wanted to live​.” This statement reinforces ​Gurov​’s perspective of humanity in society being
general negative influences.