Protagonist

Character Role Analysis

Coalhouse Walker, Jr.

Coalhouse Walker is the protagonist of Ragtime in that he is the character that most wants something, and is the character who must face tragedy. We want justice for him, and yet, as we realize he won't get it, we feel conflicted. He'll get his revenge but it will come at a price—his own life. The fact that his fiancée dies and his downfall occurs because of discrimination makes it all the harder to witness.