Dead Souls

The narrative centers on Chichikov, a middle-class gentleman with a questionable scheme to elevate his social standing in a Russian town. He aims to acquire "dead souls," or deceased serfs, from landowners, believing this will enhance his wealth and influence. Through satire, Gogol explores the absurdities and moral failings of society. Although the novel ends abruptly and is thought to be incomplete, it remains a significant work that showcases Gogol's sharp critique of human nature. This edition features a translation by C. J. Hogarth and is printed on premium acid-free paper.