Plum Bun · Chapter
VI explained
Angela thrives at the Academy, enjoying camaraderie and recognition, but her racial secret and the presence of her sister Jinny prevent deeper social connections.
What happens
Angela thrives at the Academy, enjoying camaraderie and recognition, but her racial secret and the presence of her sister Jinny prevent deeper social connections. She confides in Mr. and Mrs. Shields about her desire for broader horizons. Meanwhile, tensions with Jinny escalate as Angela reveals her plan to sell the house, move to New York, and pass as white to pursue a freer life. Despite emotional farewells, Angela leaves Philadelphia secretly, severing ties and burning bridges.
Themes in this chapter
Racial Passing and Identity
Angela decides to pass as white in New York, severing ties with her past and family to pursue a freer life.
Family and Sacrifice
Angela's choice to leave Jinny and sell the family home highlights the painful sacrifices made for personal ambition.
Freedom vs. Restraint
Angela feels confined by her racial identity and seeks liberation through passing, while Jinny argues for solidarity.
Characters to notice
- Angela Murray
Excels at the Academy, feels constrained by her racial secret, and plans to move to New York to pass as white.
- Virginia Murray
Struggles with Angela's decision to leave and pass, feeling hurt and abandoned.
- Hettie Daniels
Lives with the sisters as housekeeper and chaperone; enjoys posing for Angela's sketches.
- Miss Henderson
A talented but standoffish Black student at the Academy who is not received with the same cordiality as Angela.
- Mr. Shields
Instructor at the Academy who encourages Angela to pursue practical applications of her art.
- Mrs. Shields
Hosts Angela for tea and advises her to prepare for future opportunities.
Key passages
“She had not mentioned the fact of her Negro strain, indeed she had no occasion to, but she did not believe that this fact if known would cause any change in attitude. Artists were noted for their broad-mindedness.”
Angela had not disclosed her Black heritage, assuming artists would be open-minded and judge her by merit alone.
Reflects Angela's naivety about racial prejudice in artistic circles.
“Why shouldn't I declare for the one that will bring me the greatest happiness, prosperity and respect?”
Angela argues she should choose the racial identity that offers her the most advantages.
Central to her justification for passing.
“I'm beginning to think that you have more white blood in your veins than I, and it was that extra amount which made it possible for you to make that remark.”
Jinny implies Angela's decision to pass stems from a psychological distance from their Black identity.
Highlights the emotional rift between the sisters.