Anton Chekhov (1860–1904) was a Russian playwright and short story writer, celebrated as one of the greatest writers of short fiction and one of the seminal figures in the development of modern drama. His plays, including “The Seagull,” “Uncle Vanya,” “Three Sisters,” and “The Cherry Orchard,” are known for their complex characters, subtle dialogue, and profound exploration of human nature and social change. Chekhov’s short stories are acclaimed for their economy of language and insightful depiction of life and character. His works have had a lasting influence on both literature and theater, inspiring countless writers and playwrights.