The Beggar

Think About It 

1. Has Lushkoff become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?

Lushkoff has become a beggar not by choice but by circumstance. He was a singer in a Russian choir but was sent away for his drunkenness. Alcoholism had made him weak and he could not toil, so he took to begging for survival.

2. What reason does Lushkoff give to Sergei for telling lies?

Lushkoff tells Sergei that he was telling lies because no one would help him if he told the truth about his drunkenness. Instead, lies helped him get both sympathy and money that he required desperately to keep himself alive.

3.  Is Lushkoff a willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?

Lushkoff is not eager to work because alcohol has made him very weak, both in body and feelings. However, he accepts the simple job of chopping wood because of his pride and shame. Before, he had said he'd do any work if given a chance, and now he doesn't want to break his promise.

4. Sergei says, “I am happy that my words have taken effect.” Why does he say so? Is he right in saying this?                                                    

Sergei thinks this because Lushkoff appeared calm and helped with packing and moving furniture. He is somewhat correct because Sergei's continuous help provided Lushkoff with a chance to leave his unpleasant life as a beggar.

5. Lushkoff is earning thirty-five roubles a month. How is he obliged to Sergei for this?

Lushkoff is thankful to Sergei because he helped him get a job earning thirty-five roubles a month. Sergei recommended Lushkoff to his friend and arranged for him to work as a copier.

6. How did Olga save Lushkoff?

Olga saw that Lushkoff was sad and wouldn't work. She felt sorry for him. She sat in front of him, crying. She scolded him, then chopped wood for him. Finally, Lushkoff changed. He quit drinking and became a good person.