Fraternity Row

Rodger is the adult narrator who recalls his fraternity days with moral clarity. He challenges hazing and tries to steer the pledges toward reform, balancing loyalty with ethical responsibility. He confronts the consequences of the system when he sees Zac die and realizes the limits of reform.

Chuck is the hardline pledge master who enforces traditional hazing. He drives the group toward its brutal rituals and clashes with Rodger and Zac. His insistence on preserving the old ways contributes to the tragedy.

Zac is a pledging member who rises to pledge class president and seeks reform from within. His relationship with Jennifer and his idealism are tested by Chuck’s rigidity, culminating in a fatal Hell Week.

Jennifer is a KDA pledge who connects with Zac and questions the Greek system. She urges resignation and later breaks up with Zac, showing the tension between personal beliefs and social loyalty.

Betty Ann is a KDA member who receives Zac’s pin but later witnesses the fray from a distance. She participates in social rituals and uses racist language that exposes how prejudice operates within the college social structure.

Lloyd Pope is a pledger whose diplomat father is accused of being a communist, leading to his expulsion during McCarthy-era tensions. He is not restored to the fraternity after his status is challenged.

An alumnus who commends the pledges at a formal dinner after their radio contest victory. He symbolizes the outward respectability of the fraternity and hosts gatherings that frame its social power.