Dead Souls by Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol is a classic novel that tells the story of a man named Chichikov who travels around Russia buying the “dead souls” of serfs who have died but are still listed as alive on the census. Chichikov’s plan is to use these dead souls as collateral to secure a loan, but his scheme is complicated by the corrupt officials and landowners he encounters along the way. The novel is a satirical commentary on the social and political realities of 19th century Russia, and Gogol’s vivid characters and humorous writing style make it a memorable and entertaining read.

This edition of Dead Souls, translated by C.J. Hogarth and published by J.N. Dent & Sons LTD in 1948, includes an introduction by John Cournos and is part of the Everyman’s Library series. The book is in good condition despite its age, with a slightly rubbed and faded red cloth hardcover and no dust jacket.