Plum Bun · Questions
Questions
Evidence-linked answers for Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Racial Passing and Identity?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Racial Passing and Identity across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. The central theme of the novel, explored through Angela Murray's decision to pass as white to gain social and economic freedom, and the psychological and moral conflicts this creates regarding her true identity and family ties. Central theme as Mattie passes for white, and Angela begins to internalize the possibilities and costs of such a choice. The chapter delves into the Murray family's navigation of racial identity, particularly through Mattie's passing and its impact on Angela's sense of self. The chapter centers on Mattie's casual 'passing' as white and Angela's growing belief that whiteness is essential for a life of glamour and freedom, highlighting the psychological and familial complexities of racial identity.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Social Class and Ambition?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Social Class and Ambition across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. The contrast between the modest, satisfied ambitions of Angela's parents on Opal Street and Angela's restless desire for wealth, luxury, and a broader, more glamorous life, which drives her actions. The nursery rhyme's reference to 'market' and 'plum bun' subtly evokes themes of commerce, desire, and the pursuit of social or material gain. Mattie's past as a domestic worker and her desire for a better life, as well as her observations about the ease of life with a white skin, highlight class and ambition. Virginia's appointment and the family's improved financial situation allow for greater comfort and leisure, reflecting upward mobility.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Freedom vs. Restraint?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Freedom vs. Restraint across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. Angela's intense longing for personal freedom—from poverty, duty, and especially racial restrictions—is pitted against the constraints of family, race, and societal expectations, leading her to seek liberation through passing. The cyclical structure of going to market and returning home suggests a tension between the freedom to venture out and the restraint of coming back to familiar confines. Angela perceives whiteness as liberation from the constraints of race, class, and duty, while her mother's actions show that such freedom is limited and comes with emotional costs. Angela's restlessness in church and her preference for Saturdays hint at her desire for personal freedom, contrasting with Virginia's contentment within the family's structured life.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Family and Sacrifice?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Family and Sacrifice across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. The novel examines the bonds and tensions within the Murray family, particularly the contrast between Virginia's loyalty and self-sacrifice for the race and Angela's pursuit of individual happiness at the cost of family connection. Mattie's passing creates tension within the family, particularly with Virginia, and shapes Angela's future decisions. The family's home life is marked by sacrifices made to maintain stability and opportunity, highlighting the theme of familial bonds. Mattie's shame at ignoring her husband and daughter during a passing excursion reveals the tension between personal pleasure and family loyalty, while Junius's forgiveness underscores the family's bond.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Race and Racism?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Race and Racism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. The pervasive impact of racism in early 20th-century America is shown through segregation, discrimination in education and employment, social exclusion, and the internalized pain and anger it causes characters like Angela and Virginia. Mattie's experiences with Madame Sylvio's racist assumptions and the broader societal discrimination against African Americans are central to the chapter. The chapter depicts the systemic racism Angela faces at school, where childhood friends distance themselves and even a close friend rejects her upon discovering her racial background. The chapter highlights systemic racism in Philadelphia's school system and the characters' differing views on how to cope with racial restrictions.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Art and Self-Fulfillment?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Art and Self-Fulfillment across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. Angela's talent as a painter serves both as a genuine passion and a means to achieve independence and social mobility, reflecting the broader theme of using creative work to find purpose and escape limitations. Angela pursues her art by enrolling in classes at Cooper Union, seeing it as a path to self-fulfillment and social connection. Angela's involvement with art students and her appreciation of Paulette's unconventional decor and highbrow books highlight her pursuit of artistic and personal fulfillment. Angela uses art as a means to connect with interesting people and a more attractive atmosphere, while Miss Powell sees it as a path to prove racial capability and achieve personal freedom.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Love and Marriage?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Love and Marriage across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. The novel explores love and marriage as both romantic ideals and strategic tools for security and advancement, contrasting Angela's pragmatic, self-interested relationships with Virginia's more idealistic and committed views. The chapter explores the complexities of love and marriage through Angela's calculated relationship with Roger, where she uses emotional withholding as a strategy, and her contrasting genuine connection with Anthony. Roger's proposal of a secret affair contrasts with Angela's desire for a conventional marriage, highlighting differing views on love. The chapter explores the conflict between conventional marriage and free love, as Roger advocates for a union without legal bonds while Angela insists on the necessity of marriage for security and respectability.
How does Plum Bun develop the theme of Selfishness vs. Community?
Plum Bun by Jessie Redmon Fauset develops Selfishness vs. Community across the chapters the companion marks for this theme. Angela's individualistic pursuit of personal happiness is set against the communal responsibilities and sacrifices expected within the African American community, a conflict highlighted by her sister Virginia's contrasting values. Angela's internal debate between personal ambition and loyalty to her sister illustrates the tension between selfish desires and communal bonds. Roger's pursuit of his own desires without regard for Angela's future or reputation contrasts with Angela's awareness of how her choices would be judged by her former community in Opal Street. Angela reflects on her loneliness and lack of genuine friendship, contrasting her selfless efforts with Roger's selfishness and the superficiality of her social circle.
