Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Nikolai Gogol: A 19th-century Russian writer of Ukrainian origin, widely regarded as a foundational figure in Russian literary realism. His works often blend satire, the grotesque, and the absurd with keen social observation.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • We studied the works of Gogol in my Russian literature class.
  • Gogol's novel "Dead Souls" is a masterpiece of satire.

Advanced Usage

• The term is almost exclusively used as a proper noun referring to the historical figure. In literary criticism, his name is used adjectivally to describe styles or themes characteristic of his work.
  • The story had a Gogolian sense of the absurd.
  • He is considered a Gogol scholar.

Variants and Related Words

• Gogolian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the works or style of Nikolai Gogol.
  • The play's humor was distinctly Gogolian.

Synonyms

• Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol: The writer's full name.
• Author of "The Overcoat": A reference by one of his most famous short stories.

Notes on Meaning

• This word refers specifically to the individual, Nikolai Gogol. It is not used as a common noun and has no other general meanings in English. Its significance is entirely tied to the author's literary legacy.

Noun

1. Russian writer who introduced realism to Russian literature (1809-1852)