Short Fiction · Character
Akaki Akakievitch
A humble copying clerk so invisible that colleagues treat him like a passing fly, until a new overcoat gives his life a sudden, fragile glow.
major
Also known as Akaki, the little Akaki, Akakievitch
First appearance: The Mantle
As a major figure in Short Fiction, Akaki Akakievitch is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
Protagonist of 'The Overcoat,' a lowly clerk whose life revolves around his coat.
Akaki Akakievitch is a titular councillor in a Petersburg chancellery, a bald, silent man who bends over the same documents in the same spot while younger clerks shower him with paper snowflakes. His one plea, 'Do leave me alone! Why do you always want to disturb me at work?' carries a pathos that stops at least one young man cold. When he finally sets his heart on a new overcoat, the small hope transforms him, and the story's middle arc turns on how much a life can hinge on a garment.
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Character Web
15 connectionsA slice of how Akaki Akakievitch sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Other
Character groups
- St. Petersburg tales characters
- Madness and overcoat characters
- Viy story characters
- Nose and madness characters
+10 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional and psychological peak occurs as the auction transforms the deceased art-lover’s cherished colle…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingIn the story
Akaki Akakievitch appears across 2 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Akaki Akakievitch unlock in the free preview.
See Akaki Akakievitch in The Mantle