Russian short stories are known for being melancholy, often dealing with suffering. However, they can also be funny and absurd. Some common subjects include class distinctions, the plight of the underdog, and a rejection of authoritarianism and bureaucracy. The best collection of Russian short stories includes: Fyodor Dostoevsky: Notes from the Underground The Dream of a Ridiculous Man The Beggar Boy at Christ's Christmas Tree Leo Tolstoy: The Death of Ivan Ilyich Kholstome