"The Overcoat" is a short story by Nikolai Gogol that follows the life of Akaky Akakievich Bashmachkin, a low-ranking government clerk in St. Petersburg. He is mocked by his colleagues for his shabby appearance and struggles to make ends meet. When his old overcoat becomes threadbare, he saves money to buy a new one, which brings him temporary happiness and respect. However, after losing the overcoat, Akaky's life takes a tragic turn. He seeks help from authorities but is ignored, leading to his decline in health and eventual death. The story highlights themes of social injustice and the importance of material possessions in a harsh society.