Man In A Case Essay, Research Paper

Man in a Case

Immediately from the beginning of the play, Man in a Case, you can tell the characters possess two very different personalities. The play begins with Byelinkov pacing, which shows that he is an impatient man and does not like to be kept waiting. Then enters Varinka out of breath and full of tales for her beloved. He emphasizes his impatience by reminding her that she is ten minutes late. Varinka barely notices his chastising of her for her tardiness before she falls into the tales of the townspeople. You automatically get the feeling that she is well aware of others doings and is eager to share her stories of gossip. She goes as far as to mention what wigs a lady in the town wears and on what days she does so. Byelinkov is almost patronizing her, but still he listens. Varinka comes across as more of a spur-of-the-moment type of girl, whereas Byelinkov likes things to remain as they are and questions others intentions. But among all of these differences there is a common bond. Both of the characters possess the ability to make the other laugh and to smile. They both enjoy dancing, and they are both in love enough to enter into marriage.

As much as a gruff bear that Byelinkov tries to portray, there is a sweet and gentle side in him that is most likely only brought out by Varinka. She loves to entice him into being more like her. She pleads with him to dance with her, which he promptly questions with his reply of, Now? It is nearly four weeks before the wedding! (18). Varinka also points out to Byelinkov the beauty of the roses and he only sees the beetles on the roses. Yet he does look at the roses, and he does dance with her. She completes a part of him that he doesn t even seem to realize is missing. He admits to her that she has already brought him some happiness. (20).

Byelinkov and Varinka are able to appreciate each other and their opposing qualities, as well as what they share in common. This should make for a great marriage where they learn to compromise and also learn to accept change. If the characters were exact replicas of each other then there would be nothing new to learn and things would soon become bland. In this relationship there is just enough of contrast that they will be able to continue to love each other strongly but also learn that the other possesses traits that are to be admired.