The works of Anton Chekhov revolutionized modern playwriting through his innovative approach to narrative and character development. He introduced subtlety in dialogue and placed emphasis on the inner lives of characters, creating a sense of realism that departs from traditional dramatic structures. Chekhov's ability to express complex human emotions through nuanced interactions made his plays profoundly relatable. His concept of the Chekhov's gun principle, wherein every element in a story has significance, shaped the way contemporary playwrights construct narratives, leading to more introspective and character-driven theatrical experiences.