Sergei offered Lushkoff to chop wood for him and earn money instead of telling lies and begging. Sergei made this offer because he believed that people could be reformed by hard work and not by giving sympathy

Answer:

Explanation:

In the story "The Bet" by Anton Chekhov, Sergei and Lushkoff are two characters who make a bet. Sergei, a young lawyer, believes that capital punishment is more humane than life imprisonment, while Lushkoff, a banker, argues the opposite. They agree to a bet of two million roubles, and Sergei agrees to live in complete isolation for fifteen years while Lushkoff provides him with everything he needs.

During his fifteen years of isolation, Sergei spends his time in a small lodge in the banker's garden. He reads books, plays the piano, and studies various subjects. One activity that Sergei engages in to keep himself physically active is chopping wood.

Significance of Chopping Wood:

Chopping wood serves as a symbol of Sergei's self-reliance, discipline, and strength. It represents his ability to survive and sustain himself during his years of solitude. Chopping wood also provides him with a sense of purpose and accomplishment, as it is a physical task that requires effort and determination.

Sergei's Reward:

After fifteen years, when Sergei completes his isolation period, Lushkoff comes to visit him in the lodge. Lushkoff is amazed to see Sergei's transformation and acknowledges his wisdom and personal growth during the years of seclusion.

As a reward for his perseverance and self-discipline, Sergei presents Lushkoff with a small, simple wooden cross that he made himself by carving it out of a tree trunk. This cross symbolizes Sergei's spiritual journey and his newfound understanding of the value of life and human connection.

In return, Lushkoff gifts Sergei with a document that declares him the rightful owner of the two million roubles, effectively winning the bet. However, Sergei refuses to accept the money, stating that he no longer believes in material wealth and considers it meaningless. He renounces his claim to the money and leaves the lodge, leaving the cross behind as a reminder of his transformative experience.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Sergei gives Lushkoff a small, wooden cross that he made himself as a symbol of his spiritual growth and understanding. The gift represents Sergei's rejection of material wealth and his newfound belief in the value of life and human connection.