Their Eyes Were Watching God

Definition

'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is a novel written by Zora Neale Hurston, published in 1937, that tells the story of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century South. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and the search for identity through Janie's relationships and experiences, making it a pivotal work in African American literature and a significant contribution to the Harlem Renaissance's artistic expression and cultural movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is celebrated for its rich use of dialect and narrative style that reflects the voice and experiences of African American women.
2. 'The novel's central theme revolves around Janie's quest for personal freedom and independence, contrasting societal expectations with her desire for love and self-fulfillment.
3. 'The book was initially met with mixed reviews but has since been recognized as a classic of American literature and a foundational text in feminist literary criticism.
4. 'Hurston's work emphasizes the importance of community and cultural heritage in shaping individual identity, showcasing the significance of storytelling within African American culture.
5. 'The novel has been adapted into several films and plays, further solidifying its impact on popular culture and its relevance in discussions about race, gender, and identity.'

Review Questions

• How does Zora Neale Hurston use Janie's character development to illustrate themes of empowerment in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'?
  • Zora Neale Hurston employs Janie's character development to depict her journey towards empowerment by showing her evolution from a voiceless girl into an assertive woman who seeks her own identity. Throughout the novel, Janie's relationships with men reflect her struggle for autonomy; each relationship teaches her valuable lessons about love and self-worth. By the end of her journey, Janie embodies strength and independence, illustrating that true empowerment comes from understanding oneself.
• In what ways does 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' reflect the broader cultural movement of the Harlem Renaissance?
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' reflects the Harlem Renaissance by capturing the essence of African American life in the early 20th century through its rich narrative style and exploration of cultural identity. The novel celebrates African American vernacular speech while also addressing social issues such as gender roles and racial discrimination. Hurston's emphasis on black female experience contributes to the literary diversity sought during this cultural movement, showcasing the unique voices emerging from Harlem.
• Evaluate how 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' contributes to discussions on race and gender within African American literature.
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' significantly contributes to discussions on race and gender by offering a nuanced portrayal of an African American woman's quest for identity amid societal constraints. The novel challenges traditional gender roles through Janie's pursuit of love and independence while also addressing racial oppression faced by African Americans in the South. This intersectional approach allows readers to understand the complexities of black womanhood in a historical context, making Hurston's work pivotal for both feminist literature and African American studies.

Related terms

Zora Neale Hurston:

'Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American author and anthropologist known for her contributions to literature during the Harlem Renaissance, particularly through her exploration of African American culture and folklore.'

Harlem Renaissance:

'The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s and 1930s, highlighting the creativity of African Americans in literature, art, music, and performance.'

Folk Culture: 'Folk culture refers to the traditional beliefs, practices, and customs of a specific community or group, often reflected in storytelling, music, and art; it plays a crucial role in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' through its incorporation of African American vernacular and cultural heritage.'