Question

During their conversation Lushkoff reveals that Sergei’s cook, Olga, is responsible for the positive change in him. How has Olga saved Lushkoff?

Answer 1

Olga takes pity on Llushkoff. She knows that such a weak man can’t chop wood. She helped him by chopping wood in his place. No matter how much abusive Olga was in her words, deep inside she had a helping attitude. 

The very act of Olga changes Lushkoff’s heart. Had Olga not helped Lushkloff in chopping wood he would not have got the money he needed. He would not have got the chance to listen to Olga’s moral lessons. 

Answer 2

In Anton Chekhov's story "The Beggar," Lushkoff reveals to Sergei that it was Sergei’s cook, Olga, who was responsible for the positive change in his life. Olga saved Lushkoff through her compassion, tough love, and moral guidance. Here’s how she did it:

1. Compassion and Care: Despite her initial harsh treatment, Olga showed Lushkoff compassion. She saw beyond his appearance and alcoholism and believed in his potential to change. Her caring attitude made him feel valued and gave him a reason to strive for a better life.

2. Moral Support: Olga often spoke to Lushkoff about the importance of honest work and living a decent life. Her moral lectures, though delivered sternly, planted the seeds of self-respect and responsibility in Lushkoff.

3. Assistance with Work: Olga sometimes did the work herself that Lushkoff was supposed to do, such as chopping wood. This act of kindness not only provided him with money but also saved him from physical labor that he was too weak to perform due to his alcoholism. This indirect help allowed Lushkoff to recover and gradually regain his strength.

4. Encouragement: Olga's consistent support and encouragement helped Lushkoff believe in himself. She motivated him to give up drinking and to find honest work, which ultimately led to his transformation.

Through her actions, Olga played a crucial role in Lushkoff's redemption, helping him to leave behind his life of begging and alcoholism and find a respectable job, thus transforming his life for the better.