The House Behind the Cedars

Definition

The House Behind the Cedars is a novel written by African American author Charles W. Chesnutt, published in 1900. The book explores themes of race, identity, and the complexities of social class within the African American community during the post-Civil War era. It tells the story of two mixed-race siblings who navigate their identities and societal expectations in a racially divided society, highlighting the struggles faced by those who are caught between two worlds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel's central characters, Rena and George, embody the struggle between embracing one's heritage and seeking acceptance in a predominantly white society.
2. Chesnutt uses the metaphor of 'the house behind the cedars' to symbolize the hidden lives of mixed-race individuals who must navigate their ambiguous social status.
3. The book is notable for its exploration of themes such as identity and belonging during a time when racial tensions were high in America.
4. Chesnutt was one of the first African American authors to gain national recognition, and his work contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance later on.
5. The narrative critiques both racism and the social structures that enforce racial boundaries, providing insight into the lived experiences of African Americans during this period.

Review Questions

• How does 'The House Behind the Cedars' illustrate the concept of passing within its narrative?
  • 'The House Behind the Cedars' illustrates the concept of passing through its main characters Rena and George, who both struggle with their mixed-race identities. Rena chooses to pass as white to gain societal acceptance and improve her prospects, while George grapples with his decision to embrace his African American heritage. This conflict highlights the personal dilemmas faced by individuals caught between two racial identities, showcasing how societal pressures influence their choices and relationships.
• Discuss how Chesnutt addresses issues of social stratification in 'The House Behind the Cedars.'
  • 'The House Behind the Cedars' addresses social stratification by depicting how race and class intersect in determining individuals' status within society. Through Rena and George's experiences, Chesnutt reveals that even within the African American community, there are divisions based on skin color and perceived social standing. The novel illustrates how these stratifications affect opportunities for education, employment, and social mobility, emphasizing that race is not merely a matter of color but also a complex social construct that shapes identity and experience.
• Evaluate the significance of 'The House Behind the Cedars' in relation to the broader themes of African American literature at the turn of the 20th century.
  • 'The House Behind the Cedars' is significant in African American literature as it offers a nuanced exploration of identity and race at a time when such topics were becoming increasingly prominent. Chesnutt's work challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about racial boundaries and social expectations. The novel's focus on mixed-race individuals serves as a precursor to later discussions about intersectionality and identity politics within African American literature, paving the way for subsequent authors to address complex themes regarding race, class, and gender in a more profound manner.

Related terms

Passing: The act of a person of one racial group being accepted as a member of another racial group, often for social or economic advantages.

Social Stratification: The hierarchical arrangement of individuals in society based on factors such as wealth, race, education, and social status.

Colorism: Discrimination based on skin color, often within the same racial or ethnic group, where lighter skin is favored over darker skin.