Passing is considered to be one of the Great American novels written by a Black female writer. 

"Irene Redfield is a Black woman living an affluent, comfortable life with her husband and children in the thriving neighborhood of Harlem in the 1920s. When she reconnects with her childhood friend Clare Kendry, who is similarly light-skinned, Irene discovers that Clare has been passing for a white woman after severing ties to her past--even hiding the truth from her racist husband.
Clare finds herself drawn to Irene's sense of ease and security with her Black identity and longs for the community (and, increasingly, the woman) she lost. Irene is both riveted and repulsed by Clare and her dangerous secret, as Clare begins to insert herself--and her deception--into every part of Irene's stable existence. First published in 1929, Larsen's brilliant examination of the various ways in which we all seek to "pass," is as timely as ever." Summary from Goodreads.com.

In this class, the teacher will provide relevant background information about the setting of the novel and lead a discussion of the book. The book takes place in 1920s Harlem so the teacher will provide relevant background information regarding the history of race in America during the time of the book. Through reading and answering comprehension questions, we will explore the plot, character development, themes, symbols, and other literary devices. 

Activities for the class will include:
A reading guide each week with comprehension questions and activities
A video lesson for each week's chapters
Comprehension questions posted in the class for students to answer
A weekly comprehension quiz
An optional essay for students to complete and receive feedback on.


This is a self-paced class where students can work at their own pace. There will be no live meetings. Please give three business days for teacher feedback on comprehension questions and the optional essay.