The Overcoat by Nikolai Gogol

Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

The Overcoat by Nikolai Gogol

Grade Level: This lesson plan is intended for High School English, ideally 9th or 10th grade.

Subject: Literature

Time Allotment: Two class periods (approximately 1.5 hours)

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will be able to identify key elements of Russian Realism in "The Overcoat."
  • Students will be able to analyze the character of Akaky Akakievich and the societal forces that shape him.
  • Students will be able to discuss the themes of poverty, social hierarchy, and alienation.
  • Students will be able to interpret the symbolic significance of the overcoat.

Materials:

  • Copies of "The Overcoat" by Nikolai Gogol
  • Whiteboard or projector
  • Markers or pens
  • Character analysis worksheet (optional)
  • Theme analysis graphic organizer (optional)

Lesson Procedure:

Day 1: Introduction and Character Analysis

  1. Introduction (10 minutes):
  • Briefly introduce Nikolai Gogol and his place in Russian Realism, a literary movement that focused on social criticism and the struggles of ordinary people.
  1. Setting the Stage (10 minutes):
  • Discuss the social hierarchy of 19th-century Russia, emphasizing the rigid class system and the plight of the lower classes.
  1. Character Analysis (30 minutes):
  • Have students read the first half of "The Overcoat" (focusing on Akaky Akakievich's life and his relationship with the overcoat).
  • Individually or in small groups, students complete a character analysis worksheet on Akaky Akakievich. This worksheet could prompt them to consider:

✵ Akaky Akakievich's personality traits and occupation.

✵ How his work environment and social interactions reflect his low social status.

✵ The significance of the overcoat in his life (both practicality and emotional attachment).

  1. Class Discussion (15 minutes):
  • Facilitate a class discussion based on the character analysis worksheets.
  • How does Gogol portray Akaky Akakievich's sense of self-worth and his place in society?
  • How does the overcoat become more than just a piece of clothing for him?
  1. Exit Ticket (5 minutes):
  • Briefly have students answer a reflection question on a notecard:

✵ How would you describe Akaky Akakievich's life so far?

✵ What is your initial impression of the role of the overcoat in the story?

Day 2: Thematic Exploration and Symbolism

  1. Review (5 minutes):
  • Briefly review the previous day's discussion on Akaky Akakievich and the social context.
  1. Themes and Symbolism (40 minutes):
  • Have students complete the reading of "The Overcoat."
  • Introduce the key themes of the story:

✵ Poverty and social injustice: How does Gogol highlight the struggles of the lower class?

✵ Alienation and dehumanization: How is Akaky Akakievich treated by others?

✵ The Dream of Advancement:

  • Discuss the symbolic significance of the overcoat:

✵ As a symbol of social status and acceptance.

✵ As a representation of Akaky Akakievich's dreams and aspirations.

  1. Theme Analysis Graphic Organizer (20 minutes):
  • Have students use a graphic organizer to analyze the themes in more depth. They can identify specific quotes from the text that illustrate each theme and explain how it contributes to the overall meaning of the story.
  1. Wrap-Up and Open Discussion (15 minutes):
  • Discuss the ending of the story and its implications.
  • How does the supernatural element change the meaning of Akaky Akakievich's story?
  • Open the discussion to broader questions about social inequality, the pursuit of happiness, and the human condition.

Differentiation:

  • Provide scaffolding for reading comprehension by offering chapter summaries or a glossary of unfamiliar terms.
  • Offer different options for character analysis worksheets (e.g., mind map, Venn diagram)
  • Allow students to choose a specific theme to focus on for their graphic organizer analysis.

Extension Activities:

  • Students can research the life of Nikolai Gogol and the historical context of 19th-century Russia.
  • Have students write a diary entry from Akaky Akakievich's perspective, expressing his thoughts and feelings.
  • Compare and contrast "The Overcoat" with another short story that explores themes of poverty and social injustice.