Explain what “passing”, as portrayed in Larsen’s novel, means. What does the act of passing suggest about race more generally? Provide examples.

Compare Irene, Clare and Gertrude. How are they similar in their outlook on life and passing? How are they different?

Larsen’s novel makes a point of describing how similar the lives of Irene’s circle of friends in Harlem are to those of white Americans. Describe the two sides. Is there a marked difference?