So based on the paradox you gave me Aslan, create a theme based on the paradox,

Racial identity was largely based on ignorance and male control over women. The main conflict centers around the issue Armand has about Desiree's supposed mixed racial background. His hatred for the black race runs so strong that without thinking too hard about the possibility that the child's somewhat darker complexion could have been because of him, he effectively abandons Desiree.