Passing by Nella Larsen: Study Guide - Part Two Chapters 1-4
What does Irene believe motivates Clare’s interest in her black heritage?
Who is Brian? Describe his personality.
Why doesn’t Irene want to see Clare again?
What is Brian’s assessment of blacks who “pass’? Why do black people protect those who “pass”?
Why is Brian restless in his life? Where does he want to travel to? How does Irene feel?
What is Irene’s plan to better her son, Junior, and curb her husband’s restlessness?
What is Irene’s main priority as a mother?
Describe communication between Irene and Clare at this point in the novel. What is the only bond Irene perceives between herself and Clare?
What is Irene’s advice to Clare? What is Clare’s reaction?
Why does Clare want to reconnect with the black community?
Who is Hugh Wentworth? Why does he call Irene?
What is Clare’s determination at the end of chapter 2.2?
Describe the Negro Welfare League dance.
What motivates whites to visit Harlem, including dances, according to Hugh?
What is Hugh’s assessment of Clare’s race? What is the racial meaning behind the Dorothy Tompkins story?
How has Brian’s view of Clare changed at this point in the novella? Why is Clare staying with the Redfields?
What is Clare’s view of children?
Why does Clare cry at the end of chapter 3.4? What is Irene’s reaction?
To find the answers to these questions, you will need to read and analyze the specific chapters (Chapter 1-4) of the novel "Passing" by Nella Larsen. Here are some tips on how to find the answers:
1. Go back to the chapters mentioned and read carefully. Look for passages or dialogues where Irene mentions or discusses Clare's interest in her black heritage. Take note of Irene's observations and thoughts about Clare's motivations.
2. Identify Brian as a character in the novel. Pay attention to the descriptions and actions attributed to Brian. Look for passages that reveal his personality traits. Consider how other characters perceive Brian and what their interactions with him reveal about his personality.
3. Look for the reasons given by Irene for not wanting to see Clare again. Pay attention to Irene's thoughts and feelings towards Clare, as well as any specific incidents or conversations that have influenced Irene's decision.
4. Explore the sections of the novel where Brian talks about blacks who "pass" and their assessment. Look for Brian's opinions on the matter and any insights he provides regarding why black people protect those who "pass." Consider if there are any specific incidents or societal factors mentioned that contribute to this protection.
5. Pay attention to the parts of the novel where Brian expresses restlessness and a desire to travel. Note where Brian wants to travel to and how Irene feels about it. Look for passages that highlight Brian's restlessness and Irene's thoughts and reactions to it.
6. Find the sections where Irene discusses her plan to better her son, Junior, and curb her husband's restlessness. Take note of Irene's specific plans and strategies. Consider why these actions are her chosen course of action.
7. Look for passages that mention Irene's main priority as a mother. Pay attention to any thoughts or statements Irene makes about her role as a mother and what she considers most important for her child.
8. Explore the interactions and communication between Irene and Clare in the chapters mentioned. Look for passages that describe their conversations and interactions. Consider Irene's perception of their bond and what she identifies as the only connection between herself and Clare.
9. Find the part of the novel where Irene gives advice to Clare and note down Irene's advice and Clare's reaction to it. Consider any insights or feelings Irene expresses during this interaction.
10. Look for passages that reveal Clare's motivation for wanting to reconnect with the black community. Pay attention to any conversations, thoughts, or motivations that Clare expresses regarding this desire to reconnect.
11. Identify Hugh Wentworth as a character and look for the part where he calls Irene. Pay attention to the context and purpose of the call. Consider why Hugh specifically reaches out to Irene.
12. Find the determination that Clare expresses at the end of chapter 2.2. Pay attention to the specific determination Clare has and any thoughts or actions that accompany it.
13. Explore the descriptions and details of the Negro Welfare League dance. Pay attention to the atmosphere, attendees, and any significant events or interactions that occur during the dance.
14. Look for passages that discuss why whites visit Harlem, including dances, according to Hugh. Pay attention to Hugh's insights and thoughts on the motivations of white visitors to Harlem.
15. Find the sections where Hugh gives his assessment of Clare's race. Take note of Hugh's thoughts and opinions on the matter. Consider the racial meaning behind the Dorothy Tompkins story and how it relates to Clare's race.
16. Explore the changes in Brian's view of Clare at this point in the novella. Look for passages that reveal Brian's changing perspective on Clare. Consider why Clare is staying with the Redfields and how it aligns with Brian's view.
17. Find Clare's view of children in the novel. Pay attention to any passages where Clare discusses or expresses her thoughts on children. Consider her attitude and beliefs towards them.
18. Look for the part where Clare cries at the end of chapter 3.4. Note the reasons given for Clare's tears and Irene's reaction to them. Consider the significance of this moment in the novel.
By following these steps and closely reading the specified chapters, you should be able to find the answers to the questions about "Passing" by Nella Larsen.