Freddy vs. Akaky

A very introverted and reclusive protagonist, Akaky Akakievich Bashmachkin, who spends most of his time copying documents of unknown importance invoke descriptions from readers such as pathetic, worthless, or a pushover. The last words that one would use to describe Akaky throughout most of the novel would be assertive and goal-oriented. In fact, even his name, with Greek roots, directly means “harmless” or “lacking evil.” It is safe to say that the most action that’s ever happened to Akaky is when he was robbed of his overcoat near the end of the story. Fortunately for Akaky, he mans up and changes from the day in & day out copying that controls his life.

Even though Akaky ends up dying over something small and meaningless such as the loss of his new overcoat, he redeems himself by the end, saving himself in the last few pages. I’m sure most readers have had a point in their life when they have been completely afraid of ghosts. Some might even recall a place such as under the bed, closet, or attic where they have been particularly afraid. Fortunately for Akaky, a huge shift in power occurs after he dies. Once tormented by co-workers, muggers, and the Very Important Person, Akaky engages on an adventure that could easily be turned into a novel on its own. Akaky is the one calling the shots as a ghost, roaming the streets of St. Petersburg stealing overcoats from people.

I don’t know about other readers, but personally I would be petrified if, on a cold night in Russia, my overcoat was taken by a stout redheaded ghost. Ironically, the one man who would not help Akaky and even scolds him is eventually haunted by him. Once a quiet document copier, Akakievich could not have made more of a change as he becomes part of the supernatural. Even the ones who mugged him, in the end, are alluded to have had a similar fate, roaming the streets in another part of the city. Did Akaky have anything to do with this? With his level of power by the end, it is no wonder that the robbers are doomed to a restless death.