How Nikolay Gogol invented Russian horrorThis statement might seem bold, but it's not far from the truth. As we celebrate his birthday this week, [Born March 20 (Old Calendar)/April1 1809] it's fitting to reflect on how his literary legacy shaped the genre in Russia.The first work that inevitably springs to mind is Gogol's "Viy," along with its chilling Soviet adaptation. Indeed, much of horror literature draws from such themes - from Hoffmann's unsettling tales of monsters and demons to the contemporary, predictable vampire stories.Yet Gogol dives deeper. When do traditional relationships between generations break down irretrievably?Almost all contemporary Russian horror literature follows Gogol's blueprint. In this sense, he didn't merely craft terrifying tales;