Pushkin's "The Queen of Spades"

"**The Queen of Spades**" by Alexander Pushkin is a Gothic short story about a man named Hermann who becomes obsessed with mastering a mysterious card trick that allegedly guarantees wealth. He learns from an old countess a secret involving three specific cards, but in his greed and desperation, he tries to uncover the secret repeatedly. His obsession leads to psychological torment and tragic consequences, illustrating themes of greed, obsession, and the supernatural. The story combines psychological depth with gothic atmosphere, exploring how obsession and the allure of fortune can distort reality and morality.