Student Question

Do you sympathize with Akaky in "The Overcoat"? Why or why not?

Expert Answers

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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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