The task of stationmaster as described in Pushkin's story no longer exists in the modern world. There are modern professions that are similar, however, inasmuch as they put people into positions of responsibility without giving them much influence over their situation. What modern-day professions can you think of that are similar in this way to the obsolescent profession of stationmaster?

In Gogol's story, a man's nose leaves his face and pursues an independent life as a government employee until eventually returning to the man's face. During his nose's absence, the man is very embarrassed and reduced. Do you think the nose is intended as an allegory for something else? If so, what, and if not, then what is the story really about?

In Dostoevsky's story, the dead retain consciousness after death for 3-6 months. During that time they can talk and smell, but they...