The Night of Christmas Eve
The story revolves around a poor but honest peasant who lives with his wife and children in a small village. On Christmas Eve, he receives an unexpected visit from the devil, disguised as a beggar, who offers to help him become wealthy by selling his soul. The peasant initially refuses, but after being tempted by the promise of wealth and comfort, he eventually agrees to make a deal with the devil. However, when the devil returns on Christmas morning to collect the peasant's soul, he finds that the peasant has changed his mind and is now unwilling to give up his soul. The story explores themes of morality, temptation, and redemption as the peasant struggles with the consequences of his decision.
By Nikolai Gogol · First published 1836 · Genre: Fantasy, Folklore, Comedy · 22,621 words
First lines
The last day before Christmas had just closed. A bright winter night had come on, stars had appeared, and the moon rose majestically in the heavens to shine upon good men and the whole of the world, so that they might gaily sing carols and hymns in praise of the nativity of Christ. The frost had grown more severe than during the day; but, to make up for this, everything had become so still that the crisping of the snow under foot might be heard nearly half a verst round. As yet there was not a single group of young peasants to be seen under the windows of the cottages; the moon alone peeped stealthily in at them, as if inviting the maidens, who were decking themselves, to make haste and have a run on the crisp snow. Suddenly, out of the chimney of one of the cottages, volumes of smoke ascended in clouds towards the heavens, and in the midst of those clouds rose, on a besom, a witch.
What this Textopian page supports
The Night of Christmas Eve is listed on Textopian as a novel by Nikolai Gogol, dated 1836 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Nikolai Gogol
- Date: 1836 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fantasy, Folklore, Comedy, Romance, Satire
- Length: 22,621 words
- Structure: 1 section, 263 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Fantasy — The narrative incorporates supernatural elements and magical realism, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
- Folklore — The story draws heavily on Slavic folklore, integrating traditional tales and cultural motifs.
- Comedy — The plot features humorous situations and character interactions that evoke laughter.
- Romance — Themes of love and romantic pursuit are central to the character's motivations and conflicts.
Tags
Satire · Social Commentary · Russian Literature · 19th Century Fiction · Dark Comedy · Critique of Society · Morality Tale · Farcical Elements · Absurdity · Black Humor · Cultural Satire · Societal Commentary