The Overcoat

The Overcoat

Hardcover
4.52

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Beschreibung

From the Father of the Golden Age of Russian Literature, Nicolai Gogol's The Overcoat is one of the greatest short stories of all time. This satire on Russia's 19th century bureaucracy is amusing, pointed and has influenced many renowned Russian writers.
Civil servant, Akakiy Akakievitch, is underpaid and underappreciated. The harsh winter months are fast approaching and Akakievitch knows all too well that his overcoat won't survive another repair. He scrimps and saves to the best of his ability until he finally has the funds to purchase a new coat. With the arrival of the garment, we see Akakievitch emerging from his shell. He is gradually more outgoing and is given a new lease of life. But in the cruel world of 19th century Russia, this newfound happiness cannot last long.
When Akakievitch is assaulted on his way home, the two thugs steal his new overcoat. His coworkers, the police and even a government official refuse to assist Akakievitch. As the days grow shorter and the nights colder, Akakievitch falls deathly ill...
Originally published in 1842, The Overcoat is a short story with great impact. Its themes of social commentary, the human condition and a touch of the supernatural are combined with Gogol's biting wit and innovative writing.
Complete with a specially commissioned author biography, Read & Co. Books is proud to have republished this new edition of The Overcoat. A must-have addition to the bookshelves of classic Russian literature lovers, this short story is not one to be missed.
Haupt-Genre
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Sub-Genre
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Format
Hardcover
Seitenzahl
52
Preis
23.20 €

Beiträge

2
Alle
5

In the short story "The Overcoat" Nikolai Gogol narrates the rise and fall of an insignificant person, Akakij Akakijewitsch. Working as a copyist, mobbed by his superiors and colleagues, he is a creature of habit, wearing the same coat and implementing the same tasks and duties on a daily basis. Never does he want anything more, in fact, any change out of his routine causes bewilderment. A turnaround appears in Akakij Akakijewitsch´s life when his coat is worn out and, therefore, needs a new coat based on his tailor´s pressing advice. The anticipation of a new coat, the meticulous planning to purchase the same depict an emotional roller-coaster to Akakijewitsch. Eventually, when he carries himself around in his new coat, his life seems to become more interesting. He is admired by his very same superiors and colleagues and he is socializing by attending an event. So far so good you would think...However, to every rise, there is a fall and Akakij Akakijewitsch draws the consequences of obtaining a new coat, giving into the admiration of his circle, having the coat stolen and his pathetic attempts to initiate legal steps with Russian officials against the thieves. A tragicomic story that fascinated me with its accurate character description, insights into hierarchies in official departments of Russia and its completely unforeseen ending. Gogol engages the reader to such an extent that it will make you sympathize with the protagonist and chuckle at some incidents, but most importantly, Gogol keeps you wondering what will happen next and keeps you wanting more of his impeccable writing style. With every world melting on your palate, you will recognize that many authors of past and present times are inspired by Gogol and his story "The Overcoat". Though the scenery is set in Russia, the parallels in characters and events are a global matter. Easy 5 stars! So happy to have read this short story. Thanks to my virtual book-club on goodreads! #GroupReading #GroupDiscussion IG: nilguen_reads

4

One very strange and sad story. Read it. Love the paranormal twist at the end.

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