Set in the early 20th century, Ragtime weaves together the lives of fictional and historical figures, capturing the spirit of an era marked by rapid social and cultural changes.The narrative follows three primary storylines that converge throughout the novel.
The first revolves around an upper-class white family living in New Rochelle, New York. The family consists of the Father, Mother, and their Younger Brother. One day the paths of Coalhouse Walker Jr, a Black man, cross theirs.
The second storyline centers around Coalhouse Walker Jr., who experiences a series of discriminatory incidents that culminate in a tragic event. Motivated by revenge and seeking justice, Coalhouse embarks on a violent quest that exposes the racial tensions of the time.
The third storyline introduces a range of historical figures, including Harry Houdini, Emma Goldman, and Henry Ford. These characters represent different aspects of American society, reflecting the diverse and evolving landscape of the early 20th century.
Ragtime combines fictional narratives with real-life events, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. Think Zelig. Doctorow incorporates elements of the ragtime music genre, which serves as a metaphor for the syncopated rhythms of American society.