The letter from Dmitry Grigorovich, its importance and influence. The Steppe and the role of nature in Chekhov's writings. Chekhov's novella A Dreary Story and the theme of "a general idea". Chekhov's trip to Sakhalin. The influence of the Sakhalin trip on Chekhov's life and literary work. The Duel: attitudes towards the concept of a "superfluous man" and Social Darwinism. Specific features of Chekhov's portrayal of the idea.