What did Gogol do with Pushkin's dog? - briefly
Nikolai Gogol, in an apparent act of kindness or perhaps misguided attempt at humor, once gave Alexander Pushkin's beloved dog a bath. This gesture, however well-intentioned, resulted in the unfortunate demise of the dog shortly after.
What did Gogol do with Pushkin's dog? - in detail
Nikolai Gogol, one of Russia's most celebrated writers, is known for his significant contributions to literature. However, few are aware of an intriguing incident involving Alexander Pushkin, another literary giant, and a beloved pet.
In 1837, Pushkin's dog, a small pug named Mimi, was given to Gogol as a gift from the great poet himself. This act of generosity came at a time when both writers were at the peak of their creative powers but faced personal challenges. Pushkin, known for his passionate nature and dramatic life, was grappling with domestic issues that would eventually lead to his untimely death in a duel.
Gogol, who admired Pushkin's work and considered him a mentor, received Mimi with great affection. The dog became a cherished companion for Gogol, providing comfort and companionship during his writing sessions. Gogol was known to be deeply superstitious, and the presence of Mimi brought a sense of tranquility to his often-turbulent life.
The bond between Gogol and Mimi deepened over time. Gogol took great care of the dog, ensuring that she was well-fed and loved. He even incorporated elements of their relationship into his works, with some scholars suggesting that Mimi served as a muse for certain characters and themes in his stories.
Tragically, Mimi's life was cut short by an accident. Gogol, distraught over the loss of his beloved pet, went through a period of intense grief. The incident had a profound impact on him, and it is believed that this event contributed to his decision to leave Russia for a time.
The story of Mimi serves as a poignant reminder of the deep connections that can form between humans and their pets, even among figures of great literary renown. It also highlights the personal struggles and emotional complexities that underlie the creative process. Through this incident, we gain insight into the humanity of Gogol and Pushkin, transcending their status as literary legends and revealing them as individuals with deep emotions and attachments.