Passing

Definition

Passing refers to the ability of a person, particularly someone of mixed racial heritage or African descent, to be accepted as a member of a different racial group, typically white, in society. This phenomenon is significant in literature and culture as it explores themes of identity, race, and social dynamics, often revealing the complexities and struggles faced by individuals who navigate these blurred lines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The practice of passing became particularly prominent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as legal segregation intensified and opportunities for African Americans diminished.
2. Literary works that explore passing often delve into the psychological impact on individuals who choose to pass for white, showcasing themes of loss, betrayal, and alienation from one's cultural roots.
3. Passing can be both a survival mechanism and a source of internal conflict, reflecting the broader societal pressures to conform to racial hierarchies.
4. The act of passing raises questions about authenticity and the ways in which societal constructs of race can dictate personal choices and relationships.
5. Many notable works of literature feature characters who navigate the complexities of passing, such as Nella Larsen's 'Quicksand' and James Weldon Johnson's 'The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man.'

Review Questions

• How does the concept of passing challenge traditional views on racial identity and social acceptance?
  • Passing challenges traditional views on racial identity by highlighting the fluidity and complexity of race as a social construct. It reveals how societal acceptance often hinges on superficial traits rather than an individual's heritage or experiences. This dynamic exposes the internal conflicts faced by those who pass, as they may struggle with feelings of alienation from their true identity while seeking acceptance in a racially stratified society.
• In what ways does literature address the psychological effects of passing on individuals, particularly within African American narratives?
  • Literature often addresses the psychological effects of passing by exploring themes such as loss, betrayal, and the quest for self-identity. Characters who pass may experience significant internal turmoil as they navigate between two worlds—one that rejects their heritage and one that demands conformity. Through narrative techniques like introspective monologues and character development, authors reveal the emotional weight carried by those who make the choice to pass, ultimately critiquing societal norms around race.
• Evaluate the implications of passing on contemporary discussions about race and identity in American society today.
  • The implications of passing in contemporary discussions about race and identity are profound, prompting critical dialogues about authenticity, privilege, and societal expectations. In today's context, issues surrounding mixed-race identities challenge rigid categorizations of race, reflecting how historical practices of passing continue to influence modern understandings of belonging and acceptance. As society grapples with intersectionality and the complexities of identity formation, the legacy of passing underscores ongoing struggles for racial justice and equity.

Related terms

Double Consciousness:

A concept coined by W.E.B. Du Bois describing the internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups in an oppressive society, particularly African Americans grappling with their dual identity.

Racial Identity: The sense of belonging to a particular racial group, which influences individual identity, personal experiences, and social interactions.

Minstrelsy: A form of entertainment that caricatured African Americans through exaggerated performances, highlighting racial stereotypes and societal attitudes of the time.