Short Fiction · Characters
Character guide
Key figures in Short Fiction by Nella Larsen.
Irene Redfield
major
Also known as Irene, Mrs. Redfield, Irene Westover
A refined, cautious Black woman navigating identity and security in 1920s Harlem.
Clare Kendry
major
Also known as Clare, Claire, the Kendry
A childhood friend of Irene who passes as white, risking everything for her past.
Brian Redfield
supporting
Also known as Brian, Brian junior, Dr. Redfield
Irene's husband, a doctor restless with Harlem life and racial constraints.
Gertrude Martin
supporting
Also known as Gertrude, Fred Martin, Fred
A mutual friend of Irene and Clare, married to a white man.
Hugh Wentworth
supporting
Also known as Hugh, Wentworth, the Hugh Wentworth
A white writer and friend of Irene, observant of racial dynamics.
John Bellew
supporting
Also known as Bellew, Mr. Bellew
Clare's racist white husband who is unaware of her Black heritage.
Rene
minor
Also known as Rene
A minor character at social gatherings, possibly a friend of Irene.
Felise Freeland
supporting
Also known as Felise, Freeland
A lively hostess and friend of Irene in Harlem society.
Theodore
minor
Also known as Ted
Irene and Brian's younger son, a schoolboy.
Zulena
minor
Also known as Zulena
A maid in the Redfield household.
Jack
minor
Also known as Jack, Damn Jack
A minor acquaintance at parties, possibly a friend of Clare.
Obadiah
minor
Also known as Obadiah
A dialect-speaking character in the 'Sanctuary' section.
Junior
minor
Also known as Junior
Irene and Brian's older son, a schoolboy.
Jim Hammer
minor
Also known as Jim, III Jim Hammer, III, IV Jim Hammer
A minor character at social events, possibly a friend of Hugh.
Margaret Hammer
minor
Also known as Margery
A woman mentioned at a party, possibly Jim Hammer's wife.
