Count Dmitrii Ivanovich Khvostov occupies a unique place in the history of Russian literature--as an object of scorn. Generations of Russian literati sharpened their wit at the expense of Khvostov's writings. Even after he was no longer read, Russians continued to make fun of his name, regardless of what he had actually written. Later generations came to forget Khvostov's writings completely but always remembered his reputation as a literary buffoon, which had been indelibly etched into Russian literary consciousness. This image of Khvostov's literary biography presents a striking contrast to his actual life and career. Active, energetic, well respected as a government official, he did not in the least resemble a clown. Neither did the kind, intelligent, humble, and compassionate man resemble the graphomaniac convinced of his own genius who became the butt of countless jokes and epigrams.

Dmitrii Ivanovich Khvostov was born in Saint Petersburg on 19 July...