An Excursion into the History of Health Tourism Through the Literary Works of Anton Chekhov

This study aims to explore how Chekhov depicted health tourism and medical institutions in his works, how he used illness as a narrative device, and what these depictions reveal about social attitudes toward health and medicine. The study employs a qualitative content analysis of Chekhov’s literary works, focusing on references to health resorts, medical practices, and illness. Frequency analysis was conducted to quantify the most mentioned health destinations, diseases, and medical treatments in his works. The research also examines the stylistic and thematic role of illness in Chekhov’s narrative structures. Findings indicate that Chekhov frequently referenced both Russian and European health destinations, including Yalta, Crimea, Kislovodsk, and Baden-Baden. His works highlight a variety of medical conditions such as tuberculosis, neurasthenia, rheumatism, and psychological disorders, often using them as metaphors for existential and social struggles. His minimalist and psychologically nuanced style allowed him to depict illness not just as a physical ailment but as a symbol of human fragility and social inequalities. Furthermore, Chekhov’s health resorts serve as spaces where characters undergo personal transformation, reflecting the broader cultural belief in the healing power of travel. Chekhov’s literary representation of health tourism offers valuable insights into historical medical practices and the social perceptions of illness during his era. His works contribute to the understanding of health tourism as both a medical necessity and a cultural phenomenon. By integrating realism with psychological depth, Chekhov created a nuanced portrait of the human experience of illness, self-discovery, and healing.