Ragtime
In E. L. Doctorow's Ragtime, we learn the story and struggles of distinct genders, classes, races and ethnicities during the turn of the last century. Two such members of these different backgrounds are Tateh and Coalhouse. The first man is a Jewish immigrant who transforms himself from a poverty stricken, frightened newcomer to Baron Ashenazy, a wealthy, flamboyant Americanized filmmaker. The second man is an educated, well-dressed black musician who comes to be known as an enraged lunatic because of his organized violent raids against the more powerful white class. Together, these men are a prime example of how American society - its demands, prejudices and opportunities - can change a man's mentality. In this essay, I will contrast the difficulties faced by Tateh and Coalhouse in establishing their roles as fathers as they relate to gender, class, race and ethnicity.At the beginning of twentieth century, it is the role of the man to provide for his family. He must contribute a steady income, safety, and maybe for the first time in history, love of his wife and children. Throughout our story, we find that Tateh's and Coalhouse's sole purpose in life seems to be to take care of their families. Because Tateh is a single pa
slumped over in defeat like the old Tateh. After he has assimilated into American society with a few years past, Tateh finds himself between two identities. During their struggles with gender, class and race, Tateh and Coalhouse struggle with their ethnicity. Class and race presents both Tateh and Coalhouse with enough struggles to force them to jeopardize their roles as fathers. Therefore, we find that Tateh and Coalhouse live up to their male gender roles, but in contrasting ways. (237)Coalhouse responds by simply suggesting that maybe they are both "servants of our color who insist on the truth of our manhood and the respect it demands" (238). Upon Sarah's unfortunate death, Coalhouse cuts off all relations with his child; but, he does although realize that the family who has taken on the child will provide for him. The name he invents for himself, Baron Ashenazy, reveals a blend of immigrant and American mentalities. Yet, both men are happy with what they are doing and are confident they are doing the right thing for their children.
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Acceptance Essays
