Abstract

With the global spread of Chekhov’s plays in the 20th century, his works have transcended their literary origins to become foundational texts in modern theatre, influencing both dramatic realism and avant-garde experimentation. Beyond their structural and thematic innovations, Chekhov’s plays engage deeply with existential, metaphysical, and spiritual questions, making them fertile ground for religious and philosophical inquiry. His dramatic texts possess a meta-theatrical quality, not only reflecting the human condition but also serving as a medium for grappling with themes of faith, meaning, and transcendence. This study examines Chekhov’s plays as philosophical theatre, exploring how they resonate with religious and metaphysical thought in their engagement with fate, suffering, and the search for purpose. Through an analysis of theatrical interpretations—including Stanislavsky’s psychological realism, the metaphysical dimensions in productions by the Koriada Theater, Red Torch Theater, and Alexander Linski Theater—this research reveals how Chekhov’s works have been adapted to reflect contemporary existential and spiritual concerns. His dramas often evoke a sense of waiting, disillusionment, and silent prayer, mirroring theological reflections on divine silence, existential uncertainty, and the search for redemption in a seemingly indifferent world. By examining the interplay between theatrical realism, meta-theatrical awareness, and philosophical reflection, this study highlights Chekhov’s enduring influence as a dramatist whose works not only depict reality but also invite meditations on the sacred, the absurd, and the metaphysical. This research contributes to the broader discourse on religious philosophy and dramatic arts, arguing that Chekhov’s theatre functions as a metaphysical space where philosophical and theological themes—such as the confrontation with mortality, the longing for transcendence, and the ethical dilemmas of human agency—are staged and explored. Future studies should further investigate how Chekhov’s dramaturgy engages with religious existentialism and the spiritual dimensions of theatrical performance, deepening the connection between theatre, philosophy, and metaphysical inquiry.