Between secular literature and theology: archimandrite Theodore (Bukharev) - reader of Gogol

The influence of Nikolai Gogol's legacy on the literary, critical and theological works of Archimandrite Theodore (A. M. Bukharev) is studied. The detailed analysis by Father Theodore of the images of “Dead Souls”, close to the author's intention, is analyzed. The attitude towards marriage and monasticism of Gogol is considered; the question is raised about the possible reflection of the writer's thoughts on the beneficial influence of women on modern society in the fate of Archimandrite Theodore. The role of the critic Vissarion Belinsky in the reading circle of Father Theodore is noted. The key to the issues raised, which were of general importance for Nikolai Gogol, the artist Alexander Ivanov and Archimandrite Theodore, are the words of St. Apostle Paul: “…The flesh desires what is contrary to the spirit, and the spirit is contrary to the flesh: they oppose each other, so you do the wrong thing.” whatever you would like” (Galatians, chapter 5, verse 17). The article consists of four chapters: 1. Foreshadowing of the conflict; 2. Archimandrite Theodore and “Dead Souls”: reading the author's intention; 3. Paths of salvation: marriage and monasticism; 4. Literature and life: problems of interpretation of Gogol's legacy.