Nikolay Gogol was a Russian writer born on March 31, 1809, in what is now Ukraine. He is best known for his unique blend of realism and fantasy, often exploring themes of identity, bureaucracy, and the absurdities of life. His most famous works include the short story "The Overcoat" and the novel "Dead Souls." Gogol's writing style is characterized by vivid imagery and a keen sense of humor, which often highlights the flaws of society. He played a significant role in the development of Russian literature and influenced many later writers, including Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. Gogol passed away on March 4, 1852.