Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer, renowned for his contributions to modern literature. Born in Taganrog, he studied medicine at Moscow University, becoming a doctor. His literary career began with humorous sketches, evolving into profound short stories noted for their realism and depth. His works are celebrated for their subtle humor, compassion, and exploration of the human condition. Chekhov died of tuberculosis at age 44, leaving a lasting impact on both theater and literature.

The Duel explores the clash between idealism and materialism through the contrasting worldviews of its characters, using their personal conflicts to reflect broader philosophical and societal tensions. Its literary significance lies in its nuanced portrayal of human nature and moral ambiguity, characteristic of Chekhov's psychological realism.

Constance Garnett (1861-1946) was a British translator who significantly influenced English-speaking readers' access to Russian literature. Garnett is best known for her translations of works by Russian authors like Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Chekhov, Turgenev, and Gogol. Her translations, starting in the early 20th century, brought these classics to a broader audience.

Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. He was a U.S. paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division during the war.