The Government Inspector (World Classics)
Hereford Plays Series
What’s inside...
This series presents a wide choice of 20th-century drama. The books offer scene-by-scene analysis, structured questions and assignment suggestions for GCSE. In this Russian comedy, a young traveller in a provincial town is mistaken for a government inspector. LE BEST-SELLER #1 QUE LE SYSTÈME NE VEUT PAS QUE VOUS LISIEZ !!!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
14-18
Length
318 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ivan Alexandrovich Khlestakov
Marya Antonovna Skvoznik-Dmukhanovskaya
Anna Andreyevna Skvoznik-Dmukhanovskaya
Ivan Kuzmich Shpekin
Ammos Fyodorovich Lyapkin-Tyapkin
Pyotr Ivanovich Bobchinsky
Anton Antonovich Skvoznik-Dmukhanovsky
Discussion points
What do you think the main character learned about honesty by the end of the story?
How did the behavior of the townspeople change throughout the play, and why do you think it changed?
If you were a character in the book, how would you have reacted to the arrival of the inspector?
What lessons do you think this story teaches us about power and responsibility?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, discuss the historical and cultural setting of the play to give your child context.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe what they think a government inspector might do today compared to the book's period.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they might feel or react if they were in the same situation as the characters.
After finishing the book, ask your child to draw or write about their favorite scene, discussing why it stood out to them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: In 'The Government Inspector', the mistaken identity of Khlestakov leads to a cascade of corruption and bribery among officials, demonstrating the consequences of dishonest behavior.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that honesty fosters trust and good relationships, and that being truthful is vital in everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The impact of corruption
Explanation: The play highlights the pervasive and destructive effects of corruption within a town, showing how it can distort justice and societal values.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of fairness and integrity, encouraging them to be outspoken against injustices and unethical behavior in their community.
Example Lesson: The value of self-awareness
Explanation: Characters in the play often lack self-awareness, which leads to absurd situations and misunderstandings. This serves as a humorous lesson on the importance of understanding oneself.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to reflect on their actions and behavior, helping them grow into self-aware and responsible individuals.