Natalya's Comments on Guess in "The Proposal" In Anton Chekhov's one-act play The Proposal , Natalya Stepanovna argues fiercely with Lomov over their dogs during his marriage proposal visit. Guess is Lomov's hunting dog, which he praises as superior, but Natalya dismisses it harshly while defending her own dog, Squeezer.

Key Quotes from Natalya

Natalya belittles Guess to elevate Squeezer, turning a simple chat into their second big quarrel:

  • She calls Guess an "old cab-horse" and says he's too worn out to hunt properly, insisting there's no need to shoot him since he's "as good as dead already."
  • She claims Squeezer is "a hundred times better" than Guess, bragging about his speed, pedigree (costing 85 roubles), and perfect build over Guess's supposed flaws like a short muzzle.

This spat highlights Natalya's competitive streak and quick temper, fueled by pride in her father's prized dogs.

Story Context

Picture the scene: Lomov arrives nervous at Chubukov's estate to propose, but lands and dog debates derail everything. First, they fight over Oxen Meadows; then, praising Guess triggers Natalya's rage. She shouts, "Guess, indeed! ... He's old and he's short in the muzzle!"—escalating until Lomov faints from stress.

From the play (paraphrased dialogue):

Natalya: "Better than your Guess! ... Squeezer is better! He's 25 now... but superior in every way!"

Chubukov joins in, calling Guess faulty too, showing family bias.

Why It Matters

  • Character Insight : Natalya's dog rant reveals her emotional side—affection for Squeezer masks vulnerability, tying into her proposal fears.
  • Humor Element : Chekhov uses this petty argument for comedy, satirizing how trivial spats ruin big moments like proposals.
  • Multiple Views : Some see Natalya as feisty and caring (loving her "faulty" old dog); others as stubborn, blind to Lomov's good intentions.

Aspect| Natalya's View on Guess| Her View on Squeezer
---|---|---
Age & Condition| Old cab-horse, worthless| 25, but top hunter 4
Speed| Inferior, lame-like| Neck-and-neck winner 4
Value| Overrated by Lomov| 85 roubles, purebred 9
Overall| Shoot it already| Hundred times better 5

Play's Resolution & Legacy

They reconcile only after Lomov collapses—Natalya begs him to live for marriage, forgetting the feud. This 1890 farce remains a CBSE Class 10/12 staple for its witty take on human folly.

TL;DR : Natalya trashes Lomov's dog Guess as old, useless junk compared to her champ Squeezer, sparking hilarious chaos in The Proposal.

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