Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American author, anthropologist, and key figure of the Harlem Renaissance, known for her pioneering contributions to literature and folklore. Her most celebrated work, 'Their Eyes Were Watching God', showcases her unique narrative style and deep understanding of African American culture, blending themes of race, gender, and identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and grew up in Eatonville, Florida, one of the first all-Black towns in America.
2. She studied anthropology under Franz Boas at Barnard College and incorporated her knowledge of folklore and culture into her literary work.
3. In addition to her novels, Hurston wrote numerous short stories and essays that explored the complexities of African American life and culture.
4. Her writing style is characterized by its use of dialect and vivid imagery, which captures the essence of African American speech and experience.
5. Hurston's work was largely overlooked during her lifetime but has since gained recognition as a foundational part of American literature, influencing many contemporary authors.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's background and education influence her literary contributions?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Eatonville, Florida—a community with a rich cultural history—greatly influenced her understanding of African American life. Her education in anthropology at Barnard College under Franz Boas allowed her to blend academic insight with literary creativity. This combination enabled her to write authentically about African American experiences, as seen in her incorporation of folklore and dialect into her novels.
• Analyze the significance of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' within the context of the Harlem Renaissance.
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' stands out as a seminal work of the Harlem Renaissance due to its exploration of themes such as race, gender, and self-identity. Through the protagonist Janie Crawford's journey towards empowerment and independence, Hurston challenged the conventional roles assigned to women in society. The novel not only reflects the cultural richness of African American life but also illustrates the personal struggles against societal expectations prevalent during the Harlem Renaissance.
• Evaluate the impact of Zora Neale Hurston's contributions on contemporary African American literature and culture.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's pioneering work laid a foundation for contemporary African American literature by embracing a unique narrative style that celebrates black culture and identity. Her use of dialect and attention to the complexities of African American women's experiences opened doors for future generations of writers to explore their own identities. Today, her influence is evident in various literary forms and genres, inspiring authors to incorporate personal and cultural narratives while addressing themes related to race, class, and gender.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural movement in the 1920s that celebrated African American art, literature, and music, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and creativity.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, often passed down orally; Hurston's work often incorporated elements of African American folklore.

Their Eyes Were Watching God:

Hurston's most famous novel, published in 1937, which tells the story of Janie Crawford's journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.