"Diary of a Madman" is a short story written by Russian author Nikolai Gogol. It was first published in 1835 and is considered a classic of Russian literature. The narrative follows the life of Poprishchin, a low-ranking government clerk who descends into madness. Through his diary entries, readers witness his increasingly delusional thoughts and perceptions of reality. The story explores themes of social class, isolation, and the struggle for identity. Poprishchin becomes obsessed with a woman and believes he is the rightful heir to the Spanish throne, illustrating the impact of societal pressures on mental health.