Desiree's Baby

Consider the term “passing” in the context of the story. In which ways do different characters try to “pass” as white? How are the social structures utilized in order to support this passing? Are they ultimately successful? Why or why not?

Teaching Suggestion: This Discussion/Analysis Prompt invites students to connect their responses from the Personal Connection Prompt within the context of Chopin’s story. Chopin alludes to the importance of “passing” for families, particularly those which possess generational wealth and employ the labor of enslaved people. Armand’s mother’s letter reveals the importance of protecting the family property, since The Unnatural and Irreconcilable Rules of Race indicate that certain social standards, particularly for families in the antebellum South, must be upheld and maintained. Despite Armand’s mother’s efforts to hide her son’s true lineage, the attempts at “passing” are not successful. This Prompt works well as either an in-class discussion or a take-home assignment.

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

CREATIVE WRITING: “Armand’s Response”

In this activity, students will write a creative response from the point of view of Armand outlining his next steps.