Nikolai Gogol's 'Dead Souls' is a satirical novel that delves into the intricacies of 19th-century Russian society. The book follows the story of Chichikov, a con man who travels through Russia buying deceased serfs in order to increase his social standing. Through vivid storytelling and a dark sense of humor, Gogol criticizes the greed and moral decay that plagued the landowning class at the time. The novel's unique blend of realism and absurdity makes it a classic work of Russian literature, showcasing Gogol's mastery of the literary form.