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Iola Leroy; or, Shadows Uplifted is a novel by Frances E. W. Harper, first published in 1892
. Set during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, the story follows Iola Leroy, a mixed-race woman who is raised in freedom in the North without knowledge of her African heritage but later experiences the challenges of racial discrimination and enslavement. The novel explores themes of racial passing, education, and the quest for equality. Through Iola’s journey, Harper addresses the complexities of race and identity in a changing post-Civil War America.Read the full book summary, an in-depth character analysis of Iola Leroy, and explanations of important quotes from Iola Leroy.