40 pages • 1 hour read
The House Behind the Cedars
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Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Post-Civil War
1900
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
The House Behind the Cedars follows John and Rena Walden, siblings of mixed race, as they navigate societal boundaries and personal dilemmas related to race and identity in the post-Civil War South. John successfully passes as white and becomes an esteemed lawyer, while Rena's engagement to a wealthy white man falls apart when her heritage is revealed, leading her on a journey of self-discovery. The book contains sensitive topics like racial discrimination and abuse.
Romantic
Melancholic
Contemplative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
1,678 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Charles W. Chesnutt's The House Behind the Cedars receives praise for its rich exploration of race and identity, masterful narrative, and complex characters. Critics commend its social relevance and depth. However, some find its pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a seminal work in African American literature for its poignant thematic resonance and compelling storytelling.
Who Should Read The House Behind the Cedars?
Readers who appreciate complex social themes, African American literature, and post-Reconstruction era settings will enjoy The House Behind the Cedars by Charles W. Chesnutt. Fans of The Marrow of Tradition and The Souls of Black Folk will find this novel's exploration of race and identity compelling.
1,678 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rena Walden
Rena Walden
John Warwick's sister, who is tall, fair-skinned, and shy, with straight black hair, and seeks solidarity with other black people through teaching.
George Tryon
George Tryon
A wealthy 23-year-old attorney from North Carolina who becomes friends with John Warwick and is known for his handsome and capable presence.
Molly Walden
Molly Walden
John and Rena’s mother, a beautiful middle-aged woman of mixed-race ancestry, whose life significantly improves after becoming the mistress of a wealthy white man.
Frank Fowler
Frank Fowler
The son of former slaves, he is a devoted friend to Rena and provides her with support, knowing the constraints of their social positions.
Judge Straight
Judge Straight
An esteemed former judge from Patesville known for his fairness and decency, especially towards black individuals, and a mentor to John.
Dr. Green
Dr. Green
Patesville’s most prosperous doctor, embodying the prejudices of the antebellum South and opposing emancipation and Reconstruction.
Jeff Wain
Jeff Wain
A mixed-race man from North Carolina who presents himself as prosperous but conceals a more brutish temperament.
Plato
Plato
A former slave and one of Rena’s students, known for his clownish behavior and close relationship with George Tryon.
Blanche Leary
Blanche Leary
A young blond girl who is in love with George Tryon and tries to win his affection by learning about his interests.
Mrs. Tryon
Mrs. Tryon
George’s genteel mother, who wishes for him to make a good match and holds paternalistic views towards black people.
208
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Post-Civil War
1900
Adult
14+ years
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