Paul Proteus is the son of George Proteus, one of the men who engineered an economy that is completely run by machines. Because of his family connections and high intelligence, Paul is slated for a powerful position in the new world order. Paul, however, experiences vague dissatisfaction. He has a rebellious streak and an apathetic attitude.
Throughout the novel, Paul is pushed to side either with the giant corporate entity that runs the economy and employs him as head of the Ilium works or else to side with the Ghost Shirt Society rebels, who are trying to overthrow the machines. Paul is moved along by the current of society around him instead of making a choice until finally he must decide whether to turn informant on the Ghost Shirts.
Paul ultimately sides with the Ghost.....
