Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American author and anthropologist, known for her contributions to literature during the Harlem Renaissance. She is celebrated for her novel 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' which explores the complexities of African American women's lives and their search for identity. Hurston's work blends folklore, cultural heritage, and rich storytelling, making her a central figure in capturing the essence of the Black experience in early 20th-century America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and later moved to Eatonville, Florida, one of the first all-Black towns in the United States.
2. She attended Barnard College and became the first African American woman to graduate from there, highlighting her commitment to education and intellectual pursuits.
3. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' was published in 1937 and initially received mixed reviews but later became a classic of American literature and is widely studied today.
4. Hurston's writing often focused on the experiences of African American women, exploring themes of love, independence, and empowerment.
5. She was part of a vibrant community of artists during the Harlem Renaissance and worked alongside other prominent figures like Langston Hughes and Claude McKay.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing influence her literary work during the Harlem Renaissance?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Eatonville, Florida, a predominantly Black town, deeply influenced her perspective and literary voice. Growing up in a community rich with African American culture and traditions allowed her to draw upon local folklore and experiences in her writing. This background contributed to her unique storytelling style that celebrated Black life and identity while simultaneously addressing social issues faced by African Americans during the Harlem Renaissance.
• What themes are prevalent in Zora Neale Hurston's most famous work 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' and how do they reflect the cultural significance of the Harlem Renaissance?
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and the struggle for personal fulfillment. The protagonist Janie's journey resonates with many women’s experiences during the Harlem Renaissance, as it highlights their quest for identity amidst societal expectations. This focus on individual voices and stories aligns with the broader movement's goal to celebrate African American culture and challenge stereotypes through artistic expression.
• Evaluate Zora Neale Hurston's impact on future generations of writers and the ongoing significance of her work within the context of African American literature.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's impact on future generations of writers is profound, as she paved the way for many Black authors to explore their cultural heritage through literature. Her innovative use of dialect and incorporation of folklore influenced later writers like Toni Morrison and Alice Walker. The themes of empowerment and self-identity in her works remain relevant today, as they continue to inspire discussions around race, gender, and cultural representation in literature. Hurston's legacy is evident in contemporary literary movements that seek to elevate diverse voices and experiences within the broader narrative of American literature.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, from the 1910s to the mid-1930s, showcasing African American talent in literature, music, art, and more.

Anthropology: The study of human societies and cultures, which Hurston used to document African American folklore and traditions, providing insight into Black culture.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed through generations; a key element in Hurston's writing that reflects African American cultural heritage.