Undergrowth read from an anthology 1 3 actions. “Undergrowth. Fonvizin Nedorosl listen to an audiobook

The comedy was written by D. I. Fonvizin in 1781. You can get acquainted with the plot of the work through the summary “Undergrowth” for the reader's diary. The main problem of the work is the condemnation of the traditional upbringing of the nobles, in particular the provincial ones, their stupidity and malevolence.

The play "Undergrowth" was written in a classic style, which was reflected in the "speaking" names of the characters, a clear division into positive and negative characters, as well as in the unity of time, place and action: the events take place within 2 days, in the village of Prostakov.

The main characters of the comedy

Main characters:

Mrs. Prostakova - Prostakova's wife. An active, rude, uneducated woman who thinks more about her own gain than about people around and virtue, tries to solve everything by force or cunning.
Prostakov Mitrofan - the son of the Prostakovs, a minor, a young man of 16 years old, as stupid as his parents, completely weak-willed, agrees to everything that his mother or others say (in the end, he immediately agrees to join the army).
Pravdin is a guest of the Prostakovs, a government official who came to deal with the disorder in their estate, to resolve the issue of Prostakov's cruelty towards the servants. A highly moral person, a representative of the "new" educated nobility, personifies the truth and the word of the law in the work "Undergrowth".
Starodum is a person with high moral principles who achieved everything in his life on his own, without resorting to deceit or cunning. Sophia's uncle and guardian.
Sophia is an honest, educated, kind girl. After she lost her parents, she lives with the Prostakovs, in love with Milon.
Milon is Sophia's fiancé, whom they haven't seen for several years. The officer, who was distinguished in the service by courage and courage, has high concepts of human virtue and honor.
Skotinin is the brother of Mrs. Prostakova. A stupid, uneducated man, looking for profit in everything, easily lies and flatters for the sake of profit.

Other characters:

Prostakov - Prostakova's husband. Virtually nothing decides in the house, in fact the shadow and henpecked wife, uneducated, weak-willed.
Eremeevna - Mitrofan's nanny.
Kuteikin (a seminarian who himself stopped studying halfway through, because he could not master science, cunning and greedy, a grammar teacher), Vralman (a former groom of Starodum, simple, but able to skillfully deceive - he called himself a German teacher of secular life), Tsyfirkin (retired sergeant, honest man, arithmetic teacher) - Mitrofan's teacher.
Trishka is a tailor, Prostakov's servant.

Fonvizin "Undergrowth" in abbreviation

The action of the comedy takes place in the village of landowners Prostakov somewhere in the outback of Russia at the end of the 18th century.

In the Prostakov family, the evil and rude Mrs. Prostakov, a middle-aged woman, runs everything. She treats the peasants cruelly and does not put her henpecked husband, Mr. Prostakov, in anything. The evil Prostakova has one weakness - her only son Mitrofan, a spoiled and stupid 15-year-old teenager (underage).

Prostakova keeps her relative, a kind and sweet girl, an orphan Sophia, in her house. The Prostakovs always offend the defenseless Sophia and are going to force her to marry Taras Skotinin (Prostakova's brother). Unexpectedly, Sophia receives a letter from her uncle, Mr. Starodum. He reports that he has become rich and gives Sophia a decent dowry. So Sophia becomes an enviable, rich bride. Upon learning of this, Prostakova hopes to marry Sophia not her brother Skotinin, but her son Mitrofanushka.

But the plans of the Prostakovs collapse: Starodum comes to them. Sophia tells her uncle about her hard life with the Prostakovs. She also admits that she has long loved the kind and brave officer Milon, who reciprocates her feelings. Having met Milon, Starodum approves the choice of his niece and agrees to the marriage.

Upon learning of Sophia's engagement, the evil Prostakova takes a desperate step: she tries to take Sophia away from home in order to marry her to Mitrofan. But the kidnapping fails, Milon manages to save the bride. At this time, the official Pravdin is also in the house, monitoring the situation on the Prostakov estate.

Pravdin is finally convinced of the cruelty of the Prostakovs and decides to punish them. He takes away their estate from the Prostakovs under the guardianship of the state, and sends Mitrofan to the service. Thus, the evil Mrs. Prostakova is left without her beloved son and without power over the peasants.

See also: Fonvizin's comedy "The Brigadier" was written in 1869. Traditional for the 18th century sideshow-farce. On our website you can read for a reader's diary or preparation for a literature lesson. According to legend, Prince Potemkin said about her: “Die, Denis, you won’t write better.”

A short retelling of "Undergrowth" by Fonvizin

The village of landowners Prostakovs. Mrs. Prostakova is angry: the serf tailor Trishka, she believes, sewed a too narrow caftan for her beloved son, a sixteen-year-old underage Mitrofanushka. Trishka justifies herself by saying that she did not learn tailoring, but the lady does not want to listen to anything. Her husband, Prostakov, a narrow-minded and obedient man to his wife, expresses the opinion that the caftan is baggy. And it seems to Taras Skotinin, Prostakova's brother, that the caftan is "quite well sewn."

The caftan itself is a new thing for Mitrofanushka to collude with Skotinin and Sophia, a distant relative of the Prostakovs. Sophia's father died when she was still a baby. The girl grew up with her mother in Moscow. But six months have already passed since she remained an orphan. The Prostakovs took her in to "supervise her estate as if it were their own." Sophia's uncle, Starodum, left for Siberia. For a long time there was no news about him, and the Prostakovs believe that he died long ago.

Skotinin wants to marry Sofya - not because he likes the girl, not because he wants to take possession of her villages, but because there are a lot of ... pigs in these villages, and he is a big hunter before them. But Sophia still does not know who is predicted for her husband.

Sophia receives a letter from Starodum. Mrs. Prostakova, having heard about this, is extremely annoyed: her hopes did not come true, her uncle turned out to be alive. Prostakova accuses Sofya of lying: the letter, they say, is amorous. But she cannot verify the statement, because she is illiterate. Her husband and brother are also not much of a reader. They are rescued by the guest Pravdin. He reads a letter in which Starodum informs his niece that he makes her the heiress of his fortune, acquired by him in Siberia, which gives an income of ten thousand a year. Mrs. Prostakova is amazed by this news. She has a new idea: to give Sophia as her son, the ignorant Mitrofan.

Soldiers pass through the village of Prostakov. They are led by officer Milon. He meets here his old friend, Pravdin. He says that he is a member of the governor's board. Pravdin travels around the district and especially pays attention to the "evil-tempered ignoramuses" who mistreat their people. It was precisely such ignoramuses that he found in the person of the Prostakovs.

Milon, on the other hand, says that he is in love and has been separated from his beloved for more than six months. Recently, he learned that his beloved was left an orphan and some distant relatives took her to their villages ... At the moment when Milon talks about this, he suddenly sees his beloved - this is Sophia.

The lovers are happy to meet. But Sophia says that Mrs. Prostakova wants to marry her to Mitrofanushka. Milon is tormented by jealousy. True, she weakens when he learns more about his "rival".

Skotinin, passing by, unceremoniously declares his views on Sophia. Pravdin tells him about Mrs. Prostakova's plans. Skotinin is furious. Mitrofan catches his eye, being led to study by his nanny Eremeevna. The uncle wants to explain himself to his nephew and was already attacking him with his fists. But Yeremeyevna shields Mitrofanushka with her body and drives Skotinin away.

Mitrofanushka's teachers come: Sidorych - Kuteikin and Pafnutich - Tsyfirkin. Kuteikin, a deacon from Pokrov, who did not finish his studies at the seminary, teaches Mitrofan to read and write according to the Book of Hours and the Psalter. And Tsyfirkin, a retired sergeant, is an arithmetic teacher.

Mitrofan refuses to study. He complains to his mother that after his uncle's "task" learning does not come to his mind. Eremeevna tells about the collision with Skotinin. Prostakova comforts her son, promises to marry him soon. She orders the teachers to be fed dinner and sent again. The lady is dissatisfied with Eremeevna: she “did not bite into Skotinin’s mug” and “did not tear his snout up to his ears.” Prostakova is going to “transfer” with her brother in her own way. Zealous Eremeyevna cries out of resentment. The teachers console her.

Starodum arrives. Before showing himself to the owners, he talks with an old acquaintance, Pravdin. Starodum recalls his father, who served Peter the Great, praises those times. Starodum came to free his niece from "ignoramuses without a soul." He was forced to leave the public service. When Starodum was still serving in the military, he became friends with the young count. Upon the declaration of war, Starodum hurried to the army, and the count evaded this. And soon after that, the count was promoted to the rank, and Starodum, wounded in the war, was bypassed. After retiring, Starodum came to St. Petersburg to the court. But later he decided that "it is better to lead a life at home than in someone else's front."

Starodum meets Sofya and promises to take his niece away from the Prostakovs. The conversation was interrupted by the appearance of Prostakova and Skotinin. Sister and brother fight, and Milon separates them. This scene amuses the old-timer. Mrs. Prostakova is annoyed by the stranger's fun, but, having learned that this is Starodum, she changes her tone to the most servile and obsequious. She wants to flatter herself with a wealthy relative and help Mitrofanushka marry Sofya.

But Starodum promises to take Sophia to Moscow the very next morning in order to marry her there to some "young man of great merit." This news plunges everyone into despondency, and Sophia "seems amazed." Then Starodum tells her that the choice of a worthy groom is entirely in her will. It brings hope back to everyone. Mrs. Prostakova boasts before Starodum about the formation of Mitrofanushka. She is especially pleased with the German Adam Adamych Vralman, whom she hired for five years. She pays him three hundred rubles a year (other teachers - ten). Vralman teaches Mitrofan "in French and all sciences." But the main thing is that he "does not captivate a child."

Meanwhile, Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin are sad that the exercise is not going very well. Mitrofan has been studying arithmetic for the third year, but "he can't count three." He has been studying the diploma for the fourth year, and still “he won’t make out a new line.” And the whole trouble is that Vralman indulges a lazy student and interferes with his studies.

Mrs. Prostakova persuades her son to learn. He demands that there be an agreement as soon as possible: “I don’t want to study, I want to get married.” Tsyfirkin sets two tasks for Mitrofan. But the mother intervenes and does not allow them to be solved. In general, arithmetic seems to her an empty science: “There is no money - what to count? There is money - we will consider it good even without Pafnutich. Tsyfirkin has to finish the lesson. His place is taken by Kuteikin. Mitrofan senselessly repeats after him lines from the Book of Hours. Here comes Vralman. He explains to Mrs. Prostakova that it is very dangerous to stuff your head too much. Vralman believes that one can do without Russian literacy and arithmetic. Mitrofanushka, he says, only needs to know how to live in the world. Vralman lets Mitrofan frolic.

Tsyfirkin and Kuteikin want to beat Vralman. The retired sergeant brandishes the board, and the sexton - the Book of Hours, but the German manages to escape.

Sophia is reading Fenelon's book on the upbringing of girls. Starodum talks with her about virtue. He receives a letter from the Count of Chestan. This is Uncle Milon, who wants to marry his nephew to Sophia. Talking to Sophia about her marriage, Starodum again notices that she is embarrassed ... Then Pravdin and Milon appear. Pravdin introduces Milon to Starodum. It turns out that Milon in Moscow often visited the house of Sophia's mother, and she loved him like a son. Starodum, talking with Milon, is convinced that he is dealing with a worthy person. Milon asks for Sophia's hand in marriage, mentioning his "mutual inclination" with the girl. Starodum is happy to learn that Sophia has chosen exactly the one whom he himself reads to her as her husband. He agrees to this marriage.

But other contenders for Sophia's hand know nothing and do not leave their hopes. Skotinin begins to talk about the antiquity of his kind. Starodum jokingly pretends to agree with him on everything. Mrs. Prostakova invites Starodum to see how Mitrofanushka is learned. Sofya's uncle pretends to be delighted with Mitrofanushka's learning. However, he refuses both Skotinin and Mitrofanushka, saying that Sophia has already been agreed. He announces that he will leave with Sophia at seven in the morning. But Mrs. Prostakova decides that before that time she will have time to "put on her own." She places sentries around the house.

Pravdin receives a package; he is ordered to take custody of the house and villages of the Prostakovs at the first occasion when Prostakov's temper threatens the safety of the people subject to her. Pravdin tells Starodum about this. Their conversation is interrupted by noise...

Prostakova's people are dragging the resisting Sophia to the carriage - to marry Mitrofanushka. Milon, who caught this scene, frees the bride. Pravdin threatens that Prostakova will be brought to trial as a "violator of civil peace." Mrs. Prostakova violently repents of her act. Starodum and Sophia forgive her. Prostakova is glad for forgiveness: now she will take revenge on her servants for the failure that has occurred! But she fails to do this: Pravdin announces that, by government decree, he takes custody of the house and villages of the Prostakovs.

Skotinin goes back to his place, to his favorite stables. Mrs. Prostakova asks Pravdin to give her power for at least three days. But he does not agree. He calls teachers to pay them off. Eremeevna brings Kuteikin, Tsyfirkin and Vralman. Pravdin lets them go. Kuteikin demands to be paid for his studies, for worn out boots... But Tsyfirkin refuses to pay because Mitrofanushka hasn't learned anything. For such generosity Starodum, Milon and Pravdin give him money. And Pravdin offers Kuteikin to settle accounts with the mistress herself. He exclaims in horror: "I retreat from everything." In Vralman, Starodum recognizes his former coachman. It turns out that Vralman could not find a job as a coachman anywhere and he had to become a teacher. Starodum agrees to take him back as a coachman.

Starodum, Sofya and Milon are going to leave. Prostakova hugs Mitrofanushka: “You are the only one left with me ...” But her son is rude to her. The mother faints. Pravdin decides to send Mitrofan to serve. Waking up, Mrs. Prostakova wails: “I died completely ...” And Starodum, pointing to her, says: “Here are worthy fruits of malevolence!” Retold by O. V. Butkova.

This is interesting: A. S. Griboedov's play "Woe from Wit" brought worldwide fame. In this comedy, the morals of the Moscow nobility of the 19th century are presented in a satirical manner. A short step-by-step will help to understand in more detail the problems of the play, which is studied in grade 9.

Action 1

The play begins with Mrs. Prostakova scolding Trishka that he made a bad caftan for Mitrofan, although he warned about his inability to sew. Prostakov agrees with his wife. The woman decides to punish the tailor. Skotinin claims that the caftan is sewn well and Trishka is kicked out.

There is a conversation about Mitrofan - he must have fallen ill, because he did not sleep well all night. During the discussion, the son claims that he did not eat at all, but in fact he had a hearty supper all night drinking kvass, and at night he saw that his mother was beating his father. To this, Prostakova hugs her son, saying that he is her only consolation and Mitrofan runs away to the dovecote.

Skotinin, Prostakova and Prostakov are discussing that they want to give the orphan Sofya for Skotinin. The only relative of the girl, Starodum, left for Siberia long ago and did not remind of himself. The conversation reveals the self-serving, evil personality of Skotinin, who likes not Sofya but the many pigs in her villages.

Sophia brings a letter from Starodum who suddenly appeared. The Prostakovs do not believe that he is alive, they try to talk the girl into thinking that this is actually a letter from a fan. When Sophia invites them to read for themselves, it turns out that everyone is illiterate.

Pravdin enters, who is instructed to read the letter. Those present will learn that Starodum made Sophia the heiress of 10 thousand rubles. Now not only Skotinin wants to marry the girl, but Prostakova also begins to flatter the girl, wanting to pass her off as Mitrofan. As the women leave, a servant runs in and informs the men that passing soldiers have stopped in their village.

Action 2

Milon and Pravdin turn out to be old friends. Pravdin says that he came to the village to put in place the "despicable fury" Prostakov. Milon shares that he is going to Moscow to meet his beloved, whom he has not seen for a long time, since after the death of her parents, distant relatives took care of her.

By chance, Sophia passes by. The lovers are happy for each other. Sophia tells Milon that Prostakova wants to marry her to her stupid 16-year-old son.

Immediately they meet Skotinin, who is worried that he can go home without his wife and money. Pravdin and Milon urge him to quarrel with his sister, saying that she plays with them like a ball. Skotinin loses his temper.

Mitrofan and Yeremeevna are passing by. The nanny tries to force the young man to study, but he does not want to. Skotinin quarrel with Mitrofan about the upcoming marriage, since both do not mind marrying Sophia. However, Eremeevna and Pravdin do not allow them to fight. Skotinin angry leaves.

The Prostakov spouses appear. Prostakova flatters Milon and apologizes for not coming out to meet him in time. Praises Sophia and tells how she has already arranged everything for her uncle. The girl and Prostakov leave to look at the room. They are replaced by Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin. The teachers tell Pravdin about themselves, how they learned to read and write, and how they ended up in the Prostakovs' house.

Action 3

Pravdin, seeing Starodum's carriage from the window, went out to meet him first. The official talks about the atrocities of the Prostakovs in relation to Sonya. Starodum says that one cannot act on the first impulse, since experience has shown him that ardor is not always good, tells Pravdin about his life, as he saw that people are different.

This is where Sophia comes in. Starodum recognizes his niece, they are happy to meet. Uncle says that he left everything and left, because otherwise he could not earn money without “exchanging it for his conscience”.

At this time, Prostakova and Skotinin managed to fight. After they were pacified by Milon, Prostakova notices Starodum and orders Eremeevna to call her son and husband. The entire Prostakov family and Skotinin greet Starodum with excessive joy, hug and flatter in every possible way. Mitrofan repeats after his mother that Starodum is his second father. This surprises Uncle Sophia very much.

Starodum says that he is taking the girl to Moscow to marry. Sophia, not knowing that her uncle chose Milon as her husband, nevertheless agrees with his will. Prostakova and Skotinin are trying to convince him. The woman says that studies were not held in high esteem in their family, but Mitrofan allegedly does not get up because of the book and studies hard. Pravdin interrupts the woman, saying that the guest is tired from the road and everyone disperses.

Tsyfirkin and Kuteikin remain, who complain to each other that Mitrofan cannot learn arithmetic and four years of reading and writing. They blame the German Vralman for that, who interferes with the teaching, and both are not opposed to beating the unfortunate student, if only he would start doing something.

Mitrofan and Prostakova enter. The woman persuades her son to learn, at least for the sake of it. Tsifirkin sets two tasks, but in both cases, before Mitrofan counts, Prostakova solves them based on her personal experience: “I found the money, don’t share it with anyone. Take everything for yourself, Mitrofanushka. Don't study this stupid science." Only Kuteikin begins to teach the young man to read and write, when Vralman appears and says that Mitrofan does not need to learn to read and write, and in general it is better to make friends with “his own”, illiterate people, in which Prostakova supports him. Vralman makes a reservation that he saw the light while sitting on a cab, but he catches himself in time and the woman does not notice that he is lying to her.

Prostakova and Mitrofan leave. The teachers are arguing. Tsyfirkin and Kuteikin want to beat Vralman, but he runs away.

Action 4

Starodum and Sofya are talking about virtue, about how people go astray from the righteous path. The uncle explains to his niece that nobility and wealth should be calculated not by deeds for their own benefit, but by deeds for the fatherland and other people. The man explains that the position should correspond to the deeds, and not to one title. He also speaks about family life, that a husband and wife should understand each other, support that the origin of the spouses is not important, if they love each other, but this love should be friendly.

Here Starodum is brought a letter from which he learns that the young man for whom he was going to marry Sophia is Milon. Starodum, talking with Milon, learns that he is a man with high concepts of duty and honor. The uncle blesses the niece and the young man.

Skotinin tears them away from the conversation, trying to show himself in a favorable light, but only makes them laugh with his absurdity. Pravdin, Prostakova and Mitrofan arrive. The woman again praises her son's literacy. Pravdin decides to check. Mitrofan does not give a single correct answer, while his mother tries in every possible way to justify his stupidity.

Prostakova and Skotinin continue to ask Starodum who he will choose for his niece, to which they receive an answer that she already has a fiancé and they are leaving tomorrow morning. Skotinin and Mitrofan with Prostakova separately plan to intercept the girl on the road.

Action 5

Pravdin and Starodum are discussing what everyone will soon find out that without truth and good manners it is impossible to achieve something worthwhile, that the guarantee of the welfare of the state is worthy, honest, educated, well-mannered people.

They are interrupted upon hearing a noise. As it turns out, Yeremeevna wanted to take Sophia away by force on Prostakova’s orders, but Milon prevented her. Pravdin says that this is an illegal action. He points out that the girl's uncle and fiancé can accuse the Prostakovs of a crime and demand immediate punishment. The woman tries to beg forgiveness from Sophia, she forgives her. Prostakova, only she is released from guilt, is going to punish the servants who did not allow the atrocity to take place and missed the girl. However, Pravdin stops her - he reads out a paper that came from the government that from that moment the house and villages of the Prostakovs come under his care. Prostakova is indignant and asks for at least three days, but Pravdin refuses. Then the woman recalls the debts to the teachers and Pravdin agrees to pay them off himself.

Vralman, Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin arrive. Vralman's deceit is revealed - that he is in fact a retired groom of Starodum, and not a German teacher and connoisseur of high society. Vralman agrees to go to the service of Starodum again. Tsyfirkin does not want to take extra money from Prostakova, since for all the time he could not teach Mitrofan anything. Pravdin, Starodum and Milon reward Tsyfirkin for honesty. Kuteikin is not against getting money even for fruitless science, but is left with nothing.

Starodum, Milon and Sophia are going to leave. Mitrofan tells his mother to get rid of him, his father reproaches him for this. Pravdin offers the young man to go to serve and he agrees. Prostakova is in despair, as she has lost everything. Starodum sums up what happened: "Here are worthy fruits of evil-mindedness!"

Conclusion

The comedy "Undergrowth" by Fonvizin is a landmark work of the 18th century, which exposed the acute issues of that time. The play contrasts education, upbringing, high moral principles with stupidity, ignorance, anger and waywardness. The subtle humor of the writer, his understanding of global human problems allows even today to read the classic comedy. We advise you not only to read the retelling of the "Undergrowth" by actions, but also to evaluate the work in full.

See also: Comedy, written in 1664, has been one of the most popular plays in the world for several hundred centuries. In his work, the French comedian severely criticized such human vices as meanness, hypocrisy, stupidity, selfishness, cowardice.

The plot of the play "Undergrowth" in 3 minutes

The action of the play "Undergrowth" takes place in the Prostakovs' estate in the outback of Russia at the end of the 18th century.

Action 1

The absurd and cruel landowner Mrs. Prostakova keeps her serfs in fear, flogs them with rods and humiliates them. Prostakova has only one weakness - her only son Mitrofanushka, a 15-year-old underage. Mitrofan is a spoiled, lazy and stupid teenager. The father of the family is Mr. Prostakov, a spineless and inconspicuous "henpecked". One day, Prostakova's brother, Taras Skotinin, a cruel and stupid landowner, comes to visit them. Today, he intends to finally agree on a wedding with Sophia (to conclude a “conspiracy”). He dreams of getting the villages owned by Sophia. Sophia is a sweet and kind girl, an orphan and a relative of the Prostakovs. They allegedly took her into their custody, but treat her badly. Sophia does not want to marry Skotinin. Suddenly it turns out that her uncle Starodum is coming to Sofya from Siberia. He appoints Sophia the heiress of his decent fortune. Hearing this, Prostakova decides to marry Mitrofan to Sophia in order to get her inheritance. At this time, soldiers come through the village of Prostakov and stand here to rest. The soldiers are led by officer Milon.

Action 2

Entering the Prostakovs, Milon suddenly meets Sophia, his beloved. Milon and Sophia lost contact six months ago and did not expect to meet here. Milon learns that the Prostakovs want to marry Sophia to Mitrofanushka by force. Sofya hopes that Uncle Starodum will have time to save her from the clutches of the Prostakovs. Skotinin enters the room and declares that he will marry Sofya. When Mitrofan enters, Skotinin attacks him. Skotinin sees in the undersized nephew a rival in the fight for Sophia. Uncle and nephew are immediately separated. As always, during the day Mitrofan is visited by his teachers, Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin. Lazy Mitrofan does not want to study and even threatens his mother that he will drown himself in the river. Before lessons, Mitrofan and the rest of the heroes go to dinner.

Action 3

After dinner, the old man Starodum comes to the Prostakovs. Sophia is happy to meet her uncle. The old man says that now he has money to marry his niece Sophia to a worthy, albeit poor man. Starodum finds Mrs. Prostakova, who beats Skotinin for attacking Mitrofanushka. Realizing that Starodum has arrived, Prostakova immediately begins to pretend to be a kind and sweet woman. Starodum, a wise and intelligent man, sees through the hypocritical Prostakovs. The old man goes to rest. Meanwhile, Mitrofan works with teachers. But the lesson lasts several minutes, since Prostakova does not want to tire her darling son too much.

Action 4

Sofya and her uncle Starodum are talking alone in the Prostakovs' house. At this time, Starodum receives a letter in which his acquaintance recommends one officer as Sofya's husband. It turns out that we are talking about Milo, Sophia's lover. Milon enters and introduces himself to Starodum. The young officer likes the old man, and he immediately agrees to the marriage. Sophia and Milon are happy. The old man announces to everyone in the house that Sophia is engaged.

Action 5

Starodum talks with Pravdin, an official who lives for 3 days with the Prostakovs as an observer. Pravdin can take action against the Prostakovs if they continue to behave violently. Meanwhile, a cry is heard in the house: the Prostakovs are trying to kidnap Sofya in order to forcibly marry her to Mitrofanushka. Milon manages to prevent the Prostakovs from kidnapping Sophia. After this scandal, Pravdin announces to the Prostakovs that he is depriving them of the right to manage the estate and that the estate is taken under the guardianship of the state. Mitrofanushka is immediately taken to serve. So Mrs. Prostakova is left without her beloved son and without unlimited power over the peasants.

Retelling of the play by events with quotes

Action in the village of Prostakov.

STEP ONE

PHENOMENON I

Mrs. Prostakova, examining Mitrofan's new caftan, scolds Trishka for having restrained and ruined the thing. She sends Eremeevna for a tailor, and Mitrofan for her father.

PHENOMENON II

Prostakova, calling Trishka "cattle" and "thieves' mug", scolds him for the spoiled caftan. Trishka justifies himself: he is self-taught. To this, Prostakova replies that the first tailor also did not study with anyone. To which Trishka brilliantly objects:

Yes, the first tailor, perhaps, sewed worse than mine.

PHENOMENON III

Prostakova scolds her husband that he is hiding from her, and asks to resolve the dispute about the caftan. It seems to Prostakov that the caftan is baggy (i.e. large). Prostakova scolds her husband, and he replies: “With your eyes, mine do not see anything.” Prostakova complains that God gave a foolish husband.

EVENT IV

Skotinin appears and asks whom the sister wants to punish on the day of his collusion? On another day, he himself will help punish anyone: “Don’t be Taras Skotinin, if I don’t have any fault to blame.” Looking at Mitrofan's caftan, Skotinin says that it is sewn "quite a bit." Prostakova tells Eremeevna to feed Mitrofan, for the teachers will come soon. Eremeevna replies that he has already eaten 5 rolls, and before that, he was washed out all night from gluttony. Mitrofan says that he was tormented by nightmares: the mother beat the father. Mitrofan regrets that his mother is tired of the fight. Mrs. Prostakova calls her son “my consolation” and sends him to frolic.

EVENT V

Prostakova and Skotinin are talking about Sophia. Skotinin suggests: it would not be a sin for her to find out about the conspiracy. Prostakova replies that there is nothing to report to her. And he remembers how well she treats the orphan. Prostakov, on the other hand, clarifies that, together with Sophia, we undertook to oversee her village. The wife abruptly cuts him off. Skotinin is impatient to get married in order to unite the lands and breed pigs, to which he has a “mortal hunt”. Prostakova claims that Mitrofan is all like an uncle, he also loves pigs.

EVENT VI

Sophia enters with a letter, but neither Skotinin nor Prostakova can read it and boast that there were no literate people in their family.

PHENOMENON VII

Pravdin enters, Prostakova asks him to read the letter, but Pravdin first asks Sofya for permission, explaining that he does not read other people's letters. From the letter it turns out that Sophia is "the heiress of income from ten thousand." Skotinin and Prostakova are stunned. Prostakova rushes to hug Sophia. Skotinin understands that his collusion will no longer be.

SCENE VIII

The servant announces to Prostakov that soldiers with an officer have entered the village. Prostakova is frightened, but her husband reassures her that the officer will not allow the soldiers to mess up.

ACT TWO

PHENOMENON I

PHENOMENON II

Milon is happy to meet his beloved, and Sophia complains about the harassment she had to endure in the Prostakovs' house. Sophia is surprised by today's change to her Prostakova. Milon is jealous, but Sophia describes Mitrofan's stupidity, and Milon calms down. Sophia is sure that her fate is in the hands of her uncle, who will arrive soon. Skotinin appears.

PHENOMENON III

Skotinin complains that his sister, who summoned him from the estate to collusion, has sharply changed her mind. He tells Sophia that no one will take her away from him. Milo is outraged by such audacity. Skotinin threatens to take revenge on Mitrofan, who crosses his path.

EVENT IV

Yeremeevna persuades Mitrofan to study, and he calls her "an old bastard". Enter Skotinin threatens Mitrofan with reprisals. Eremeevna rushes to protect her pet. Skotinin retreats.

EVENT V

Prostakova fawns over Milon and Sophia, says that she can’t wait for her uncle, and then begins to tell how she loves Mitrofan and takes care of him, if only to bring him out to people. Teachers appear, not God knows what, but they are cheap to pay. Tsyfirkin complains that for the third year he cannot teach Mitrofan to act with fractions. Pravdin and Milon are convinced that the teachers are useless, and leave so as not to interfere with Mitrofan's studies.

EVENT VI

Prostakova asks Mitrofan to repeat what has been done with the teachers. And her son complains to her about his uncle, who almost killed him. Prostakova attacked Eremeevna, why she did not stand up for the “child”. Then she tells her mother to feed the teachers and continue teaching. As they leave, the teachers complain about their unfortunate lot.

ACT THREE

PHENOMENON I

Pravdin and Starodum, talking, recall the Petrine era, when people were valued for their intelligence, and not for their rank and wealth. They talk about the merits of traditional education, when they brought up not only the mind, but also the soul. Starodum tells the case when he met an unworthy person, but did not immediately recognize it. Starodum served the fatherland, fought and received wounds, but found out that the young man, thanks to his father's proximity to the court, went around him in the service, without showing the slightest zeal for business, then Starodum left the public service and resigned. Once at the court, Starodum was surprised that no one there walks along a straight road, but all by detours, just to get around each other. He did not like all this, and he preferred to retire. Having received neither ranks nor villages, he retained "soul, honor and rules." Starodum pronounces a sentence on the reigning house: “It is in vain to call a doctor to the sick is incurable. Here the doctor will not help, unless he himself becomes infected.

PHENOMENON II

Starodum and Sophia meet joyfully and cordially. Sophia says that she was very worried where he disappeared for so many years. Starodum reassures her that he has made enough money in Siberia to marry her well. Sophia expresses her respect and gratitude to him. They hear a terrible noise.

PHENOMENON III

Milon separates the fighting Prostakov and Skotinin. Skotinin is pretty shabby. If not for Milo, he would have had a very bad time. Sophia shows Milon with her eyes at Starodum, Milon understands her.

EVENT IV

Prostakova scolds Yeremeevna that she does not see any of the servants except her. Eremeyevna says that Palashka has fallen ill and is delirious, “like a noble woman.” Prostakova is surprised. She orders to call her husband and son to introduce them to Uncle Sophia.

EVENT V

Starodum, barely escaping from the arms of Prostakova, immediately gets to Skotinin. Then he meets Milon. And Mitrofan and Prostakov grab him by the hand. Mitrofan intends to kiss Starodum's hand, fawning over him under his mother's dictation. Prostakova tells Starodum that she never quarrels with anyone, because. quiet disposition. Starodum sarcastically replies that he managed to notice this. Pravdin adds that he has been watching battles for three days now. Starodum says that he is not a fan of such spectacles, so tomorrow he will leave with Sophia for Moscow. Prostakova literally cries that she will not survive Sophia's departure. Starodum says that he is going to marry Sophia to a worthy person. Prostakova recalls her parents, who had 18 children, and only two survived: she and her brother. Her father always said that he would curse his son if he studied. And now another century, here she is teaching her son something. Prostakova boasts of Mitrofan and wants Starodum to appreciate his successes. Starodum refuses, saying that he is a bad judge in that.

EVENT VI

Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin are indignant that they have to wait a long time for their student each time. Kuteikin sympathizes with the local servants, saying that he is a serviceman, he has been in battles, but it is more terrible here. Tsyfirkin regrets that Mitrofan cannot be properly punished for stupidity and laziness.

PHENOMENON VII

Mitrofan agrees for the sake of his mother to study for the last time, but so that the conspiracy would be today: “I don’t want to study, but I want to get married.” Mitrofan repeats what he has learned with his teachers, but he cannot solve the simplest problem. The mother constantly interferes, teaches her son not to share with anyone, and there is no need to know geography, there are cabs for that.

SCENE VIII

Teacher Vralman speaks with a strong foreign accent, he can hardly be understood. He is sure that one should not stuff the child's head with sciences, if only there is health. He scolds the Russian teachers who are ruining Mitrofanushka's health. Prostakova completely agrees with him. She leaves to look after her son so that he does not anger Starodum somehow by chance.

PHENOMENON IX

Kuteikin and Tsyfirkin attack Vralman, he runs away so that his sides are not crushed.

ACT FOUR

PHENOMENON I

Sophia is reading a book and waiting for her uncle.

PHENOMENON II

Starodum sees Sophia's book and says that the author of Telemachus cannot write a bad book. He believes that Sophia is reading an excellent book. They talk about good and bad people. Sophia assures that happiness is nobility and wealth. Starodum agrees with her, saying that he has his own calculation. He values nobility by the number of deeds done by a person for the benefit of the Fatherland, and sees wealth not in saving money in chests, but in giving the excess to those in need. Sophia agrees with him. Starodum talks about a person in general. He talks about a family in which the husband and wife hate each other - this is a misfortune for them and those around them, the children in such a family are abandoned and the most unfortunate creatures. And all because people do not consult their hearts. Sophia is happy that she has such a wise mentor.

PHENOMENON III

The valet brings a letter to Starodum. Sophia goes to get glasses for her uncle.

EVENT IV

Starodum reflects on Milo. He wants to marry Sophia for him.

EVENT V

Sophia confesses to Starodum her love for Milon.

EVENT VI

Pravdin presents Staroduma Milon. Sophia says that her mother loved him like her own son. Milon expresses his views on the service and the person, close to the views of Starodum. Milon shows himself to be an educated and sensible young man. Starodum likes him, and he blesses Sophia and Milon for marriage.

PHENOMENON VII

Skotinin appears and asks to bless him and Sophia. He shows himself to be an absolute fool. The Old Man laughs.

SCENE VIII

Mrs. Prostakova wonders if anyone prevented Starodum from resting; she made everyone walk on tiptoe so as not to disturb such a dear guest. Prostakova again asks Starodum to examine Mitrofan. Mi-rofan shows absolute ignorance of elementary things. The mother, protecting her son, says that for a century people have lived without science, and he will live happily.

PHENOMENON IX

Prostakova wonders if Starodum recognized her son. He replies that he knew both of them as well as possible. To Mitrofan's question, he replies that Sophia will not visit him, she has already been arranged for another. Prostakova runs around the room in anger and makes plans: to steal Sophia at six in the morning, before she leaves with her uncle.

ACT FIVE

PHENOMENON I

PHENOMENON II

Milon, with a sword in his hands, repels Sofya from Eremeevna and Prostakova's people, who forcibly dragged the girl into the carriage and wanted to take her to church to marry Mitrofan.

PHENOMENON III

Pravdin is sure that this crime gives the uncle and the fiancé a reason to turn to the government to punish the criminals. Prostakova on her knees begging for mercy.

EVENT IV

But Starodum and Milon refuse to complain about the Prostakovs, who are pathetic and disgusting in their humiliation. Skotinin understands nothing of what is happening. Prostakova gets up from her knees when she realizes that she is forgiven, and is immediately going to inflict reprisals on her people, who "let Sophia out of her hands." She says that she is free to flog everyone if she wants. Here Pravdin takes out a paper on guardianship of the estate. Skotinin, fearing that they will get to him, prefers to retire.

EVENT V

Prostakova asks Pravdin to pardon or give a respite, at least for three days. He doesn't even give three hours.

EVENT VI

Starodum recognizes in Vralman his former coachman. Kuteikin demands money for his work, and Prostakova says that he did not teach Mitrofan anything. He replies that it is not his fault. Tsyfirkin refuses money, because. for three years Mitrofan learned nothing worthwhile. Pravdin shames Kuteikin and rewards Tsyfirkin for his kind soul. Milon also gives him money. Vralman asks Starodum to be a coachman.

PHENOMENON VII

Starodum's carriage has been served, and Vralman is ready to take the coachman's place: Starodum takes him into his service.

PHENOMENON LAST

Starodum, Sofya, Milon say goodbye to Pravdin. Prostakova rushes to Mitrofan, her last hope, and Mitrofan replies: “Yes, get rid of it, mother, how you imposed it ...” Prostakova was killed by “the betrayal of her son.” Even Sophia rushes to console her. Pravdin decides to give Mitrofan to the service. Starodum says, pointing to Prostakova: "Here are worthy fruits of evil-mindedness."

Video summary

The name "Undergrowth" is associated with the decree of Peter I, which forbade unlearned nobles to serve and marry, calling such young people "undergrowth".

Year: 1782 Genre: comedy

Main characters: Mitrofan is a capricious young man, Prostakova is Mitrofan's mother, Prostakov is Mitrofan's father, Skotinin is Prostakova's brother, Sofya is a relative of the Prostakovs, Starodum is Sophia's uncle, Milon is an officer, Pravdin is the guest of the Prostakovs.

The famous comedy shows us the Prostakov family, where one of the main characters is the stupid teenager Mitrofanushka, who does not study at all. Everything revolves around him. His mother hopes to find him a bride with a huge dowry, but it does not work out. Having gone bankrupt, Prostakova tries to find comfort in her child, but she only hears impudent speeches in response. The acquired upbringing received from the mother gave its results. We observe how heartless and empty-headed this young man has become.

The work teaches we should treat the older generation with respect, so as not to be like Prostakov Jr., work to the best of our ability and not neglect the work of other people, gain a good education and strive for the best.

Brief retelling

The work "Undergrowth", created by the writer Denis Ivanovich Fonvizin, tells about the customs that reigned in Russian estates in the 18th century.

The noblewoman Prostakova forced her servants and serfs to do things that they did not know how to do. The woman severely punished them for not diligence and disobedience. Her husband always and in everything agreed with his wife.

The couple raised a son named Mitrofan, who did not want to study. The young man was completely illiterate, despite the fact that his parents hired several teachers for him. The mother promised the undergrowth a quick wedding, provided that he takes up his studies. But the son in every possible way shied away from the unloved business.

The woman had a brother - Skotinin. He dreamed of starting a family with Sophia, an orphan who lived on the estate. After all, the girl had a rich inheritance. Prostakova also cherished the idea of marrying her offspring to Sophia. Only officer Milon truly loved the girl. And the poor orphan also had romantic feelings for the young man.

Sophia found out that they wanted to force her to marry and did not know what to do. Fortunately for the girl, Starodum arrived at the estate - her uncle and guardian. He wanted to take Sophia to him. Prostakova catered to the man in every possible way, wanting to acquire in his person an ally for her son's marriage. She told Starodum what an educated offspring she had, and how many teachers taught him to read and write.

Starodum found out that his niece was educated, as well as honest and kind. He found out that the girl sympathizes with Milon. The man realized that young people would be an excellent married couple, and gave his consent to their marriage.

But other contenders for the hand of a rich heiress did not give up their attempts to charm Starodum. Skotinin said that there are many beautiful pigs on his estate, and that his family has very ancient roots. Prostakova showed her "educated" son. Starodum explained to everyone that his niece already has a fiancé, their wedding will take place soon. The man also said that he would leave with his niece the next morning.

However, Prostakova did not give up trying to carry out her cunning plan. She ordered the servants to take Sophia to another village and forcibly marry her to Mitrofan. Only the intervention of Milo saved the girl from a terrible fate.

At this time, Mr. Pravdin, a state official, visited the estate. He came to find out the whole truth about the affairs of the Prostakovs. Pravdin

learned about the atrocities that the noblewoman did with the servants and serfs. I found out that she had been stealing from Sophia for a long time. Starodum and Milon testified that Prostakova wanted to forcibly marry an innocent girl with her son. Pravdin deprived the couple of their estates and dismissed all the teachers of Mitrofanushka. The undergrowth himself was identified as a soldier. Skotinin, having learned about the misfortune of his sister, quickly left for his home.

In his work, Fonvizin denounced the morals that prevailed in Russian society. At the suggestion of a brilliant writer, the words "undergrowth" and "Mitrofanushka" began to be called ignorant people and half-educated people.

Summary of Fonvizin's undergrowth by action (read in 4 minutes)

Action 1

The plot begins with a scene where Prostakova scolds her servant for a poorly sewn caftan. Trishka warned the hostess that he had nothing to do with needlework, but the domineering woman did not want to listen to him. The yard worker is kicked out. The landowner considered the servants of the lowest rank, and therefore she always insulted the poor and punished them for no reason. From early in the morning, screams and curses were heard in the house against the peasants, and this was always done in front of the children and the spouse.

Here, between the husband and wife, as well as her brother, there is a conversation about Mitrofanushka. The mother is worried about him. After listening to the complaints of the child, she embraces him and says that for her he is one joy. Then the conversation goes about Sophia, who was a relative of the Prostakov family. The young lady grew up as an orphan, she did not have a father and mother, and the Prostakovs took her from the capital to their place to continue her upbringing. The only relative, her uncle, left a long time ago, and there was no news from him, so everyone thought that he had died.

In the course of the conversation, Skotinin is presented to us as a greedy, evil person who did not need Sophia, but her household. He also treats his workers cruelly, and exacts huge taxes from their farms. The pupil suddenly receives a note from her supposedly missing uncle. But, the lady does not believe, and thinks that the news is from her friend. She cannot read the paper, because she does not have the skills of writing and reading. Then a guest appears, who has arrived to arrange order in the Prostakovs' estate, reads out a paper where it was written that Starodum made his niece a wealthy mistress. The case took a completely different turn. The lady no longer scolds her, but wants to woo Mitrofanushka, who really wants to marry. While such a conversation is taking place, everyone learns from the servant that a military regiment has entered the village.

Action 2

From the news about the soldiers, we also learn that they are led by Milon, who is in love with Sophia. Here he runs into an old friend, where he told about a long separation from his beloved. Pravdin tells him that he was sent to this property in order to understand the lawlessness that is taking place here in relation to the peasants. Suddenly, unexpectedly, Sophia passes by her friends. The young people were delighted with such a meeting, but the officer became aware that the landowner was burning with the desire to forcefully marry his bride.

Then they notice Skotinin and figure out how to get rid of him. Milon and Pravdin turn their brother against their sister, stating that she does not respect him at all. Skotinin, hearing such speeches, became angry and began to think about how to put Prostakova in her place. Suddenly, Mitrofanushka appears with a nanny who guides the fool on the true path, constantly telling him that he needs to study. But the stupid youngster does not want to hear. Having seen this scene, Skotinin starts a quarrel with his nephew because of the girl. And perhaps it all ended in a fight if Eremeevna and Pravdin had not eliminated the conflict. Prostakova appears. She pleases the officer, and explains that all these years she has been taking care of the girl, waiting for Starodum to return as soon as possible. But she does not forget to brag about the fact that she devotes all her strength and means to the education of her son, if only he becomes a famous gentleman in society.

Following the departure of Sophia, teachers appear, as inexperienced and stupid as their student. One of them dropped out of school at one time, because he did not understand the sciences, the second was a guardsman in the past. They complain that they have not been able to teach Mitrofanushka for a year, explaining their appearance in this house. Milon and his friend understand that the youngster's teachers are completely incompetent. The landowner is present at her son's classes, and begs him to repeat the material he has necessarily passed. Son, tells her about the conflict with Skotinin. Mother showers Eremeevna with curses for allowing Mitrofanushka to be offended.

Action 3

Starodum arrives. Pravdin, as soon as he found out that he had arrived, immediately went out to meet him and began to tell him what kind of unrest was going on at the Prostakovs. Nevertheless, the elderly man explains to the official that before blaming people, you need to think, and immediately tells about his personal life. Together with Pravdin, they recall the time when the mind was held in high esteem, and its essence was developed in a person. Starodum remembered one event, because of which he was forced to leave the service and return home. Aspiring to a career and honorably fulfilling his duties, he noticed that a young man who served irresponsibly, but who had connections at court, pulled ahead of him.

Fulfilling his duty to the Motherland, Starodum, while staying at the court of the sovereign, noted that all officials are cured as best they can, but none of them follow an honest path. He did not like it, and he left the service. The sincere conversation was terminated due to the appearance of Sophia, who was glad to see her uncle. She slightly scolds him for not making himself known for a long time, but he reassured her, informing her that she was now a rich heiress. Suddenly, they hear a roar and swearing, they rush there, and an unpleasant sight appears before their eyes: Prostakova and Skotinin are fighting. Milon tries his best to separate them, and he succeeds. Sofya tries to hint to the officer that her uncle has arrived, and he understands.

The landowner, having just moved away from a quarrel with her brother, scolds Yeremeevna for the fact that there are no other servants besides her. The old woman, in turn, explains the reason for all the absent servants. Starodum's acquaintance with all those present of the estate is fastened. After a pleasant acquaintance with Milon and Pravdin, it is impossible for uncle to tear himself away from the obsessive greeting of the Prostakovs. Father and son are trying to grab his hands. Mitrofanushka bows before him as her mother taught. The very same thunderstorm of the whole family fawns over Starodum, saying that she has never come across such a wonderful person anywhere, and she does not like to quarrel. And the embarrassment that came out of her with her brother is simply absurd. Starodum does not believe a single word of her, and reports that he is leaving in a hurry with his niece to Moscow.

Prostakova is upset, tearfully begging Sofya to stay here. But Starodum wants to find a decent husband. The landowner goes into memories of her childhood. She didn't see anything good. They had a large family, but only she and her brother survived. The father, who served as governor for a long time, could only acquire wealth, and he did not need knowledge. And he did not teach his own children. And so Prostakova intends to teach Mitrofanushka all the sciences. Pravdin was tired of listening to the stupid speeches of the lady, and he, seeing everyone out of the room, gives Starodum a break.

Teachers of a mediocre student appear. They cry to each other that they can’t teach Prostakov Jr., and they see the problem in this in a German who interferes with their studies. During the conversation, Mitrofanushka appears with her mother. When Tsifirkin gives him something to do, the ignoramus cannot cope. He turns to Prostakova for help, to which she replies that the entire amount must be taken for herself. Kuteikin also cannot teach him the elementary basics of literacy, because Vralman intervenes and assures the student not to study and in the future to communicate with the same illiterate people like him. The teachers intend to beat Vralman, but he escapes from them in time.

Action 4

An uncle and his niece appear before us for an interesting conversation, where Starodum explains to the girl that you need to live truthfully and be fair, shares the secrets of a happy family life. Suddenly, a message is delivered to him, where he learns that Milon is the noble man for whom he decided to marry Sophia. Here Prostakova with her son and Pravdin come in.

The lady is trying to show what Mitrofanushka has learned, but when Pravdin began to question him in all areas of science, he did not receive a single intelligible answer. But Prostakova does not care how smart her son is. She wonders what kind of groom Sophia will have. Having learned that a promising person has already been selected for her, and they will depart the next day, the lady, together with her son and brother, decide to stop her.

Action 5

While Pravdin and Starodum were having a business conversation, Eremeevna wanted to intercept Sofya and take her to an unfamiliar place. But Milo, who arrives in time, prevents the kidnapping. Prostakova asks to pardon her and blames the lackeys who allowed such a case. Pravdin does not believe her and reads to her a special paper, in which it is reported that all her lands with the peasants are being transferred to his disposal.

The official pays off the teachers, but Tsifirkin did not take the money. He was ashamed that he had not taught Mitrofanushka anything like that. After the departure of Starodum. Pravdin offers Mitrofanushka to enter his service, and the young man agrees. The mother regrets that she has lost everything and tries to find support from her son, but he pushes her away rudely. Observing what is happening, Pravdin points out to the landowner the result of her upbringing.

Picture or drawing Fonvizin - Undergrowth

Summary of Fonvizin's work "Undergrowth" by actions

Important! In act 1, the reader discovers a large house where the Prostakov family lives.

The hostess is dissatisfied with the caftan, which was sewn by Tryphon for his son Mitrofan. She gives the order to bring the tailor and her husband.

Trifon enters the house, Prostakova begins to accuse him of a poorly tailored caftan. The man makes excuses that he has no education.

The owner also expresses his displeasure. In his opinion, the caftan is more like a bag. He always trusts his wife and her opinion. Prostakova insists that Tryphon be punished.

The owner's brother, Skotinin, enters the house. He made an appointment for the orphan Sofya, who also lives in the house.

This was supposed to be a solemn event, so Prostakova ordered a caftan from Tryphon.

Skotinin persuades his sister not to punish the tailor today, and assures her that she will be able to deal with him after the celebration on her own.

The hostess expresses her displeasure, and orders that her son be served breakfast.

Teachers should be here soon. The nanny says that Mitrofan ate five buns. At night he did not sleep well and complained of pain in his stomach.

The mistress's son says that he had terrible dreams, and his mother began to beat his father. He was very sorry for his mother, because in a dream she overworked. Prostakov.

Allows his big son to go and look at the pigeons. Skotinin is interested in where his future wife has disappeared, and he needs to find her.

He is waiting for the wedding ceremony. The girl was left alone, relatives died.

Skotinin marries Sophia because she has large pigs on her estate, and since childhood he has liked these animals.

Sophia runs into the living room with good news. She holds in her hand a letter sent to her by her only uncle Starodum.

The Prostakovs were not happy about this news, who immediately claim that Sophia was deceiving them.

The teacher Mitrofan Pravdin comes to the house and reads the letter. Sophia's uncle got rich in Siberia and wants to take his heir.

Prostakova decides to marry Mitrofan to Sophia. A servant abruptly runs into the house and reports that there are soldiers in the village.

Note! In act 2, officer Milon appears.

The girl complains that she does not want to marry Mitrofan. Skotinin was very upset that his marriage did not work out.

A fight breaks out between him and Mitrofan. In the third act, Pravdin sees from the window that Starodum's carriage is driving up to the house.

He meets his old friend. Starodum talks about how he served in the army and was promoted.

His story was interrupted by Sophia, who was glad to see her uncle. A picture unfolds where Prostakova beats Skotinin because he dared to hit her beloved son.

Starodum begins to laugh, and Prostakova blames her uncle for daring to laugh at them. Sophia introduces her uncle, and Prostakova changes tactics, begins to suck up.

Starodum announces that he is taking his niece to marry her to a wealthy young man. The uncle promises his niece that she will be able to choose her own groom.

Mitrofan's teachers: Tsyfirkin, Kuteikin and Vralman claim that the mother of their student demands too much from her son. His nanny Eremeevna is also convinced of this.

In the fourth act, Sophia and Starodum talk about their future plans. The uncle was convinced that his niece grew up to be a reasonable and honest girl.

He receives a letter from the Count of Chestan. His friend proposes to marry the girl to his nephew Milo. At this moment, Milon himself enters their room, and the girl introduces him to her uncle.

Starodum, after a short conversation, concludes that this is a good young man, gives a blessing. Skotinin arrives and tries to persuade his uncle to give Sophia for him.

Prostakova invites Starodum to check the literacy and mind of her beloved son Mitrofan. But the undergrowth cannot answer simple grammar questions.

Mitrofan starts talking nonsense that seems obvious to a learned person.

Starodum announces that he is passing off his Sophia as Milon. Prostakova organizes the kidnapping of the girl in order to secretly pass her off as Mitrofan.

Starodum, together with Pravdin, decide that they can sue for the crime. But the Prostakovs begin to beg for forgiveness. Sophia decides not to punish them.

The prostakovs are removed from the management of the house. All servants receive remuneration and new jobs.

Prostakova begins to defend her son, but Mitrofan rudely pushes her away. Mother faints, and Pravdin decides to send the undergrowth to the service. Mitrofan doesn't mind.

When Prostakova regains consciousness, she begins to cry that she was left without power and a son. Starodum is sure that bad deeds should be punished.

Characteristics of the heroes: very briefly

Below, a very brief description of the characters with a description:

Hero	a brief description of
Prostakov	The woman mistreats the peasants, humiliates everyone. loves his son
Prostakov	He indulges his wife, tries to please her
Mitrofanushka	Son of the Prostakovs. The young man is lazy to study. Teachers work with him who cannot get literacy out of him
Skotinin	Brother of Prostakova. Likes to take care of pigs, wants to marry Sophia to get her dowry
Sofia	Niece of Starodum. The girl is kind and honest
Starodum	I was able to earn money, I was at war, Uncle Sophia
Milon	Honest and hardworking officer. Wants to marry Sofia
Pravdin	An official who maintains order in the provinces. Punished the Prostakovs for their bad attitude towards working peasants
Tryphon	A simple and kind peasant who was not afraid to argue with mistress

Denis Ivanovich Fonvizin in his work "Undergrowth" tries to convey to readers that any evil is punished. It is important to be a decent, kind person.

In order to understand the short content of the chapters or according to the action of the play “Undergrowth”, it is better to first get acquainted with the characters.

CHARACTERS of Fonvizin's play "Undergrowth"

Prostakov- the head of the family, the man is "small" and weak. In everything he tries to please his wife, loves his son. Can't read. When asked to read the letter sent to Sophia, he only answers: "It's wise."
Mrs. Prostakova- his wife, the main negative character of the play. He loves his son very much and seeks to marry him to Sophia after he learns about her inheritance. A noblewoman, because of which she believes that everything is allowed for her.
Mitrofan- their son, undersized. Rather indifferent to everyone around and, moreover, a lax boy, outwardly he loves his mother very much, but only pretends because of her imperiousness. In the finale, he is sent to the army, and he shows what he really thinks about his mother (“Yes, get rid of it, mother, how it was imposed ...”).
Eremeevna Mitrofan's nanny.
Pravdin- a government official, called to understand the affairs of the Prostakovs. He learns about the atrocities of Prostakova, as well as that she robs Sophia. With the help of Starodum and Milon, he convicts Prostakova and takes away her estate in favor of the state.
Starodum Sophia's uncle and guardian. It was because of his condition that Prostakova tried to marry Mitrofan to Sophia.
Sofia- Starodum's niece, an honest, decent, educated and kind girl.
Milon- a young officer, beloved of Sophia, it was he who prevented her abduction.
Mr. Skotinin- Brother of Mrs. Prostakova. Wants to marry Sophia. Loves pigs.
Kuteikin- seminarian, teacher Mitrofan.
Tsyfirkin- retired sergeant, Mitrofan's teacher.
Vralman- a German, a former coachman, but pretends to be a scientist. Hired to teach Mitrofan "in French and all sciences", but doesn't actually teach anything, only getting in the way of other teachers.
Trishka- self-taught tailor.
Servant of Prostakov.
Starodum's valet.

"Undergrowth" summary by chapter (by action)

ACT FIRST Fonvizin's play "Undergrowth"

PHENOMENON I

The village of landowners Prostakovs. Mrs. Prostakova is angry: the serf tailor Trishka, she believes, sewed a too narrow caftan for her beloved son, a sixteen-year-old underage Mitrofanushka. Trishka justifies herself by saying that she did not learn tailoring, but the lady does not want to listen to anything. She sends Eremeevna for a tailor, and Mitrofan for her father.

PHENOMENON II
Prostakova, calling Trishka "cattle" and "thieves' mug", scolds him for the spoiled caftan. Trishka justifies himself: he is self-taught. To this, Prostakova replies that the first tailor also did not study with anyone. To which Trishka brilliantly objects:
- Yes, the first tailor, perhaps, sewed worse than mine.
PHENOMENON III
Prostakova scolds her husband that he is hiding from her, and asks to resolve the dispute about the caftan. It seems to Prostakov that the caftan is baggy (i.e. large). Prostakova scolds her husband, and he replies: “With your eyes, mine do not see anything.” Prostakova complains that God gave a foolish husband.
EVENT IV
Skotinin appears and asks whom the sister wants to punish on the day of his collusion? On another day, he himself will help punish anyone: “Don’t be Taras Skotinin, if I don’t have any fault to blame.” Looking at Mitrofan's caftan, Skotinin says that it is sewn "quite a bit." Prostakova tells Eremeevna to feed Mitrofan, for the teachers will come soon. Eremeevna replies that he has already eaten 5 rolls, and before that, he was washed out all night from gluttony. Mitrofan says that he was tormented by nightmares: the mother beat the father. Mitrofan regrets that his mother is tired of the fight. Mrs. Prostakova calls her son “my consolation” and sends him to frolic.
EVENT V
Prostakova and Skotinin are talking about Sophia. Skotinin suggests: it would not be a sin for her to find out about the conspiracy. Prostakova replies that there is nothing to report to her. And he remembers how well she treats the orphan. Prostakov, on the other hand, clarifies that, together with Sophia, we undertook to oversee her village. The wife abruptly cuts him off. Skotinin is impatient to get married in order to unite the lands and breed pigs, to which he has a “mortal hunt”. Prostakova claims that Mitrofan is all like an uncle, he also loves pigs.
EVENT VI
Sophia enters with a letter, but neither Skotinin nor Prostakova can read it and boast that there were no literate people in their family.
PHENOMENON VII
Pravdin enters, Prostakova asks him to read the letter, but Pravdin first asks Sofya for permission, explaining that he does not read other people's letters. From the letter it turns out that Sophia is "the heiress of income from ten thousand." Skotinin and Prostakova are stunned. Prostakova rushes to hug Sophia. Skotinin understands that his collusion will no longer be.
SCENE VIII
The servant announces to Prostakov that soldiers with an officer have entered the village. Prostakova is frightened, but her husband reassures her that the officer will not allow the soldiers to mess up.

ACT TWO of Fonvizin's play "Undergrowth"

PHENOMENON I

Milon unexpectedly meets with an old friend Pravdin and says that he is going to Moscow in a hurry, grieves that he does not know anything about his beloved, who may be subjected to cruelty. To which Pravdin says that in this family there is a cruel wife and a stupid husband. He, Pravdin, hopes to put an end to "the malice of the wife and the stupidity of the husband." Milon is pleased that his friend has the authority to do so. Sophia enters.
PHENOMENON II
Milon is happy to meet his beloved, and Sophia complains about the harassment she had to endure in the Prostakovs' house. Sophia is surprised by today's change to her Prostakova. Milon is jealous, but Sophia describes Mitrofan's stupidity, and Milon calms down. Sophia is sure that her fate is in the hands of her uncle, who will arrive soon. Skotinin appears.
PHENOMENON III
Skotinin complains that his sister, who summoned him from the estate to collusion, has sharply changed her mind. He tells Sophia that no one will take her away from him. Milo is outraged by such audacity. Skotinin threatens to take revenge on Mitrofan, who crosses his path.
EVENT IV
Yeremeevna persuades Mitrofan to study, and he calls her "an old bastard". Enter Skotinin threatens Mitrofan with reprisals. Eremeevna rushes to protect her pet. Skotinin retreats.
EVENT V
Prostakova fawns over Milon and Sophia, says that she can’t wait for her uncle, and then begins to tell how she loves Mitrofan and takes care of him, if only to bring him out to people. Teachers appear, not God knows what, but they are cheap to pay. Tsyfirkin complains that for the third year he cannot teach Mitrofan to act with fractions. Pravdin and Milon are convinced that the teachers are useless, and leave so as not to interfere with Mitrofan's studies.
EVENT VI
Prostakova asks Mitrofan to repeat what has been done with the teachers. And her son complains to her about his uncle, who almost killed him. Prostakova attacked Eremeevna, why she did not stand up for the “child”. Then she tells her mother to feed the teachers and continue teaching. As they leave, the teachers complain about their unfortunate lot.

ACT THREE of Fonvizin's play "Undergrowth"
PHENOMENON I

PHENOMENON II

PHENOMENON III

EVENT IV

EVENT V

EVENT VI

PHENOMENON VII

SCENE VIII

ACT FOUR plays by Fonvizin "Undergrowth"

PHENOMENON Sophia is reading a book and waiting for her uncle.

PHENOMENON II
Starodum sees Sophia's book and says that the author of Telemachus cannot write a bad book. He believes that Sophia is reading an excellent book. They talk about good and bad people. Sophia assures that happiness is nobility and wealth. Starodum agrees with her, saying that he has his own calculation. He values nobility by the number of deeds done by a person for the benefit of the Fatherland, and sees wealth not in saving money in chests, but in giving the excess to those in need. Sophia agrees with him. Starodum talks about a person in general. He talks about a family in which the husband and wife hate each other - this is a misfortune for them and those around them, the children in such a family are abandoned and the most unfortunate creatures. And all because people do not consult their hearts. Sophia is happy that she has such a wise mentor.
PHENOMENON III
The valet brings a letter to Starodum. Sophia goes to get glasses for her uncle.
EVENT IV
Starodum reflects on Milo. He wants to marry Sophia for him.
EVENT V
Sophia confesses to Starodum her love for Milon.
EVENT VI
Pravdin presents Staroduma Milon. Sophia says that her mother loved him like her own son. Milon expresses his views on the service and the person, close to the views of Starodum. Milon shows himself to be an educated and sensible young man. Starodum likes him, and he blesses Sophia and Milon for marriage.
PHENOMENON VII
Skotinin appears and asks to bless him and Sophia. He shows himself to be an absolute fool. The Old Man laughs.
SCENE VIII
Mrs. Prostakova wonders if anyone prevented Starodum from resting; she made everyone walk on tiptoe so as not to disturb such a dear guest. Prostakova again asks Starodum to examine Mitrofan. Mi-rofan shows absolute ignorance of elementary things. The mother, protecting her son, says that for a century people have lived without science, and he will live happily.
PHENOMENON IX
Prostakova wonders if Starodum recognized her son. He replies that he knew both of them as well as possible. To Mitrofan's question, he replies that Sophia will not visit him, she has already been arranged for another. Prostakova runs around the room in anger and makes plans: to steal Sophia at six in the morning, before she leaves with her uncle.

ACT FIVE of Fonvizin's play "Undergrowth"

PHENOMENON I

Pravdin and Starodum are talking about how to put an end to Prostakova's wickedness. Pravdin was instructed to take custody of the estate. Pravdin and Starodum discuss the virtues of the tsar, who is entrusted with the lives of his subjects, how great his soul should be. Further, they move on to a discussion about the nobles, "who should be well-behaved."
PHENOMENON II
Milon, with a sword in his hands, repels Sofya from Eremeevna and Prostakova's people, who forcibly dragged the girl into the carriage and wanted to take her to church to marry Mitrofan.
PHENOMENON III
Pravdin is sure that this crime gives the uncle and the fiancé a reason to turn to the government to punish the criminals. Prostakova on her knees begging for mercy.
EVENT IV
But Starodum and Milon refuse to complain about the Prostakovs, who are pathetic and disgusting in their humiliation. Skotinin understands nothing of what is happening. Prostakova gets up from her knees when she realizes that she is forgiven, and is immediately going to inflict reprisals on her people, who "let Sophia out of her hands." She says that she is free to flog everyone if she wants. Here Pravdin takes out a paper on guardianship of the estate. Skotinin, fearing that they will get to him, prefers to retire.
EVENT V
Prostakova asks Pravdin to pardon or give a respite, at least for three days. He doesn't even give three hours.
EVENT VI
Starodum recognizes in Vralman his former coachman. Kuteikin demands money for his work, and Prostakova says that he did not teach Mitrofan anything. He replies that it is not his fault. Tsyfirkin refuses money, because. for three years Mitrofan learned nothing worthwhile. Pravdin shames Kuteikin and rewards Tsyfirkin for his kind soul. Milon also gives him money. Vralman asks Starodum to be a coachman.
PHENOMENON VII
Starodum's carriage has been served, and Vralman is ready to take the coachman's place: Starodum takes him into his service.
PHENOMENON LAST
Starodum, Sofya, Milon say goodbye to Pravdin. Prostakova rushes to Mitrofan, her last hope, and Mitrofan replies: “Yes, get rid of it, mother, how you imposed it ...” Prostakova was killed by “the betrayal of her son.” Even Sophia rushes to console her. Pravdin decides to give Mitrofan to the service. Starodum says, pointing to Prostakova: "Here are worthy fruits of evil-mindedness."

Foreword

D. I. Fonvizin, the creator of the famous comedy "Undergrowth", consisting of five acts, is not only a wonderful prose writer, but also a born publicist. Fonvizin is one of the key figures of Russian education, he expressed in his works the national self-consciousness of the 18th century. Initially, the word "undergrowth" was not negative, since this was the official name for young men who did not receive a document confirming their education and did not enter the military service, which is Mitrofan, the main character of the story. In addition, the word "undergrowth" denoted any minor nobleman. A brief summary will help you learn about the life of the main characters of Fonvizin's comedy. "Undergrowth" is a play in which traditional noble measures of education are condemned, the main characters are clearly divided into negative and positive. Fonvizin gave them all surnames that speak for themselves.

Summary. "Undergrowth". D. I. Fonvizin

The first action of the comedy takes place in the house of Mrs. Prostakova, who scolds her tailor, the self-taught Trishka, for the too narrow caftan sewn to her beloved Mitrofan. The latter is the only child of the landowners Prostakovs, who has been at the stage of learning to read and write and arithmetic for the fourth year already. Mitrofanushka, being stupid and uneducated, nevertheless agrees to marry a smart and decent girl Sofya, who does not know that they want to marry her. Sophia was left an orphan, therefore, after the death of her parents, she is in the power of the Prostakov landlords, who are her distant relatives. She had an uncle Starodum, who once went to Siberia and about whom nothing has been heard for a long time, so there is no one to protect the girl from the arbitrariness of uneducated landowners. On the very eve of the matchmaking, Sophia receives a letter in which it turns out that her uncle Starodum is alive and has amassed a large fortune. After it becomes known about Sophia's inheritance, Prostakova certainly wants to marry the rich bride Mitrofan, for whom marriage is better than studying. At this time, a company of soldiers under the command of Milon stops at the Prostakovs' estate, who meets Pravdin, a representative of the governorship, and learns about Prostakov's plans. It turns out that Milon is Sophia's lover, who has been looking for her for a long time. After a meeting of lovers takes place, where Milon understands the whole essence of the ignorant Prostakovs. At the same time, Skotinin appears with the intention of marrying Sofya, since with the money from her inheritance he could acquire many pigs. After he learns about Mitrofan's marriage plans, Skotinin quarrels with Prostakova and starts a fight. Starodum arrives, he meets Milon, who asks for the hand of his niece, and gives his blessing to the young.

Afterword

The text, written without numerous details, is a summary. "Undergrowth", of course, is not designed for such an acquaintance. To understand the whole essence of comedy, you need to read the full version of the work. So, some people, having learned the summary of the story "Undergrowth", will show interest and wish to read its full version. Which is very desirable. Other readers will find a brief summary sufficient. "Undergrowth" is a comedy that condemns the moral decline and methods of education for the sake of the fashionable conventions of society. The essence of Fonvizin's work rests on numerous details that are not mentioned in this text. The summary of the comedy "Undergrowth" introduces the reader to the main actions and highlights the main problem of the work.