Final answer:
The modern playwright widely recognized for employing the tragicomic form during the late nineteenth to early twentieth century is Anton Chekhov. His significant contributions include the plays "Three Sisters" and "The Cherry Orchard," which are marked by their realism and focus on the personal struggles of common people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The modern playwright that often employed the tragicomic form in the late nineteenth to early twentieth century is Anton Chekhov. Chekhov was a Russian playwright who introduced a new depth to the tragicomedy genre by integrating psychological realism and social commentary into his plays. His works, such as "Three Sisters" and "The Cherry Orchard," reflect the challenges and tribulations of common people, making his dramas relatable and poignant for contemporary audiences. These plays exemplify the evolution of tragedy during that period, which focused on more realistic and personal accounts rather than the grandiose themes of earlier eras.
George Bernard Shaw is another notable figure who wrote during the same time as Chekhov and was recognized for his sharp wit and critique of societal norms. However, it is Chekhov's use of everyday characters and blend of tragic and comic elements that truly exemplify the tragicomic form in modern theatre.