"The Plot Against America" Characters Analysis

"The Plot Against America" is a novel written by Philip Roth that explores an alternate history of the United States during World War II. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Philip Roth himself as a young boy, the story depicts a fictionalized version of events where Charles Lindbergh becomes the President of the United States, bringing about disturbing social and political changes. This character analysis will delve into the key characters, their roles, traits, backgrounds, arcs, and relationships.

List of Characters

Role Identification

• Philip Roth: The protagonist and the main character of the story who experiences the alternate history unfolding around him.
• Herman Roth: Philip's father who faces the challenges and uncertainties brought on by Lindbergh's presidency.
• Bess Roth: Philip's mother who becomes increasingly concerned about the changes happening in the country.
• Sandy Roth: Philip's older brother who develops differing political views from the family.
• Alvin: Philip's cousin who fights against the fascist regime in Canada.
• Charles Lindbergh: The historical figure who becomes president in Roth's alternate reality, bringing about divisive policies and shifting the U.S. political landscape.
• Evelyn Finkel: Neighbors and friends of the Roths, they symbolize the divided American society.
• Rabbi Lionel: The spiritual and moral guide for the Roth family and the Jewish community during the turbulent times.

Character Descriptions

Philip Roth

Philip Roth is portrayed as a young boy in the novel. He is curious, observant, and intelligent, often trying to make sense of the events happening around him. As the story progresses, he becomes more aware of the intolerance and discrimination faced by his family and the Jewish community. Philip serves as the eyes through which readers witness the unfolding chaos and fear.

Herman Roth

Herman Roth, Philip's father, is a hardworking and principled man. He is an insurance agent who strives to provide for and protect his family. As Lindbergh's presidency starts influencing the nation, Herman's unease and resistance grow. He becomes a symbol of patriarchal authority and resilience, fighting to safeguard his family and his values.

Bess Roth

Bess Roth is Philip's mother, a strong-willed and protective woman. She is deeply rooted in her Jewish identity and traditions, which serve as a source of comfort and strength for her. Bess becomes increasingly anxious about the changing political climate and its impact on her family. Her dedication and determination to keep her family safe shine throughout the story.

Sandy Roth

Sandy is Philip's older brother, and his character undergoes a significant transformation as the story progresses. Initially, he admires and idolizes Charles Lindbergh, embracing Lindbergh's vision of America. As time goes by, Sandy becomes more politically and socially active, leading to a strained relationship with his family.

Alvin

Alvin, Philip's cousin, plays a vital role in the story as a brave and rebellious character. He fights against the rising fascist regime in Canada, recognizing the dangers it poses to the democratic world. Alvin goes through physical and emotional hardships, serving as a constant reminder of the impact of political choices.

Charles Lindbergh

Charles Lindbergh, a real-life historical figure, serves as the catalyst for the alternate reality depicted in the novel. Presented as a charismatic and populist politician, he becomes the President of the United States. Lindbergh's presidency brings about policies that favor Nazi Germany and undermine democracy, leading to the rising discrimination against the Jewish community.

Evelyn Finkel

Evelyn Finkel, along with her parents, is the neighbor and friend of the Roth family. As the story progresses, Evelyn becomes involved in a romantic relationship with Sandy, causing further tension between the Finkel and Roth families. Her character represents the divided loyalty and shifting alliances within the American society during this period.

Rabbi Lionel

Rabbi Lionel is a religious leader who becomes a trusted spiritual advisor for the Roth family and the Jewish community. He offers guidance and hope to the community during the challenging times, emphasizing the importance of faith and unity.

Character Traits

• Philip Roth: Curious, observant, intelligent, resilient.
• Herman Roth: Hardworking, principled, protective.
• Bess Roth: Strong-willed, dedicated, anxious.
• Sandy Roth: Admirer turned activist, rebellious, conflicted.
• Alvin: Brave, resilient, patriotic.
• Charles Lindbergh: Charismatic, populist, divisive.
• Evelyn Finkel: Independent, conflicted, loyal.
• Rabbi Lionel: Wise, compassionate, spiritual.

Character Background

The characters in "The Plot Against America" come from Jewish backgrounds and share a common heritage. They navigate the challenges of being a minority group during a political climate that supports anti-Semitic policies. Their Jewish identities shape their experiences and responses to the events unfolding in the novel.

Character Arcs

Each character in "The Plot Against America" undergoes their own arc, influenced by the social and political upheaval introduced by Lindbergh's presidency. Philip Roth's character arc is primarily about coming of age and finding his voice in an increasingly hostile environment. Herman and Bess Roth's arcs revolve around their ongoing struggle to protect their family and preserve their values in the face of adversity. Sandy's arc explores the ideological conflict between his family and his own shifting beliefs. Alvin's story follows his fight against the fascist threat and his personal transformation through sacrifice. Charles Lindbergh's character arc represents the danger of charismatic leaders and the erosion of democratic values.

Relationships

The relationships between the characters in "The Plot Against America" illustrate the tensions and divisions within the society affected by Lindbergh's presidency. The Roth family's bond is tested as they navigate the changing landscape. The relationship between Philip and his older brother, Sandy, becomes strained as they develop opposing political views. The friendship between the Roths and the Finkel family suffers due to conflicting beliefs and romantic entanglements. The relationship between the Roths and Rabbi Lionel highlights the crucial role of faith and community in challenging times.

In conclusion, "The Plot Against America" presents a compelling alternate history that explores the impact of political leadership on individuals and society. The richly developed characters and their diverse backgrounds, traits, arcs, and relationships contribute to the depth and complexity of the narrative, making it an engrossing read.