Why the stylistic change?
Anton Chekhov's plays are considered masterpieces of modern stage realism. His work with Stanislavski and the Moscow Art Theatre serve as a benchmark of the transition into stage realism. As with any major change in the style of artistic expression, this change must have come about because of changes that were happening in the culture of the time.
Discuss what you think were the significant historical changes of this period that caused this major transition to realism?