Exploring 'Passing' by Nella Larsen

 'Passing' by Nella Larsen

By: Mr. Abualkibash

Learning Objectives

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to identify and discuss the main themes of racial identity and societal expectations in 'Passing'.

What do you already know about the Harlem Renaissance and racial identity?

Summary of 'Passing' by Nella Larsen

Tells the story of Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry navigating racial identity in Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance.

Character Analysis: Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry

Irene identifies as African-American, while Clare has been passing as white.

Climax: The Party and Clare's Fatal Fall

Clare's presence causes turmoil in Irene's life, leading to a party where Clare's true racial identity is discovered.

Themes: Identity, Belonging, and Societal Constraints

Explores the complexities of racial identity and societal expectations during the Harlem Renaissance.

Setting: Harlem Renaissance

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion celebrating African American culture in Harlem during the 1920s.

Ambiguity and Unresolved Questions at the Novel's End

Leaves open questions regarding characters' true motivations, ending with Clare's mysterious death.

Definition List

Passing, Harlem Renaissance, Internalized Racism, Ambiguity

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.