Tateh, also known as Abraham Licht, is a character from the novel "Ragtime" by E.L. Doctorow. The novel is set in the early 20th century, and follows the lives of several characters from different social classes as they intersect and interact with one another.
Tateh is a poor Jewish immigrant from Eastern Europe who has come to America in search of a better life. He is a talented artist and craftsman, and he makes a living by creating silhouette portraits of people using scissors and black paper. Despite his artistic talent, Tateh struggles to make ends meet and provide for his daughter, whom he deeply loves and wants to give a better life than the one he has had.
As the novel progresses, Tateh's fortunes improve when he meets and befriends a wealthy industrialist named Father, who takes an interest in Tateh's work and helps him to establish a successful business creating moving pictures, or "flickers," as they were known at the time. With Father's help, Tateh becomes a successful and wealthy man, but he remains deeply concerned about the well-being of his daughter and is haunted by the memories of his difficult past.
Throughout the novel, Tateh's character arc serves as a commentary on the immigrant experience in America and the struggles and sacrifices that immigrants often face in their pursuit of the American Dream. Despite the many challenges he faces, Tateh remains determined and resourceful, and his hard work and perseverance eventually pay off when he is able to provide a better life for his daughter.
In conclusion, Tateh is a complex and multifaceted character in "Ragtime" who embodies the struggles and triumphs of the immigrant experience in America. His journey from poverty to prosperity serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, and his love for his daughter serves as a reminder of the enduring bonds of family.
