The Diary of a Madman and Other Stories

Nikolai Gogol's works showcase a unique blend of comedy, social commentary, and fantasy, influencing later Russian literary giants. This collection features "The Diary of a Madman," which delves into madness, and "The Nose," where a detached nose leads to absurd adventures. "The Carriage" humorously critiques a landowner's pretensions, while "The Overcoat" tells the tragicomic story of a clerk's obsession with status. The novella "Taras Bulba" explores themes of heroism and rebellion through the tale of a legendary Cossack leader.