Final answer:
The protagonist in Lawrence Yep's "The Homecoming" is the main character who deals with the central conflict of the story, but their specific identity cannot be determined from the provided context.
Step-by-step explanation:
The protagonist in the short story "The Homecoming" by Lawrence Yep is not explicitly mentioned in the provided context. In literature, the protagonist is the main character or hero of the story, who carries the narrative forward and faces the central conflict or tension. This character usually undergoes significant change or development throughout the story. Based on typical narrative structures, the protagonist is the character with whom the reader is meant to empathize and follow through the journey of the plot.
Without specific details about "The Homecoming," it's impossible to identify the actual protagonist. It's crucial for a story's protagonist to engage with the main problem or obstacle as this is what typically defines their role within the narrative. Throughout the story, Clarence faces various challenges and learns about his Chinese heritage. He is the central character and drives the plot forward as he navigates his identity and relationships with his family and culture.