Student Question
Do you sympathize with Akaky in "The Overcoat"? Why or why not?
Quick answer:
Many people sympathize with Akaky in "The Overcoat" because he is portrayed as weak, powerless, and socially awkward, evoking empathy for his struggles. His attempts to stand up for himself, despite ultimately being unsuccessful, endear him to readers who often feel compassion for downtrodden characters striving for dignity and respect.
This is really a question for your own personality to answer, but many people sympathize with Akaky because he is weak, powerless, balding, short, has a bad complexion, etc. He also finally stands up for himself, and although he is not successful in doing so, people usually like downtrodden characters who attempt to stand up for themselves.
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