ERASING THE SELF: IDENTIFYING RACIAL PASSING IN BENNET’S THE VANISHING HALF

Abstract

This article examines the issue of racial passing in Brit Bennett's novel The Vanishing Half (2020) which tackles the intricacies of racial identity and persecution in a multicultural society. This study attempts to shed light on how characters deal with racial prejudice and the effects of their decisions by using an analysis based on passing theory. The story centres on twin sisters Stella and Desiree as they negotiate their identities in the face of institutional racism and social norms. While Desiree celebrates her Black identity, Stella's choice to pass as a white lady underlines the psychological and societal ramifications of colourism. The findings of the research aid in comprehending the larger conversation about race, identity, and the long-lasting effects of past injustices experienced by marginalised groups. Ultimately, this piece highlights Bennett's story's importance in modern African American literature and its critique of racial hierarchy.

Keywords: Racial Passing, Brit Bennett's Novel, The Vanishing Half, Racial Identity, Multicultural Society