Their Eyes Were Watching God

Definition

'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is a seminal novel by Zora Neale Hurston, published in 1937, that tells the story of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century South, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This work is often associated with the Harlem Renaissance due to its exploration of race, gender, and identity through rich storytelling and folk elements, reflecting the cultural awakening and artistic expression of the era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is notable for its use of dialect, which authentically captures the voice and culture of African Americans in the South.
2. The novel emphasizes Janie's search for independence and self-fulfillment through her relationships with three different men, each representing different aspects of her journey.
3. Themes of love, identity, and empowerment are central to the narrative, highlighting Janie's struggle against societal expectations placed on women.
4. The book faced initial criticism for its portrayal of African American life but has since become a classic and is celebrated for its rich character development and poetic language.
5. Hurston's work reflects the broader themes of the Harlem Renaissance, where artists sought to redefine African American identity and challenge racial stereotypes.

Review Questions

• How does 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' reflect the themes of the Harlem Renaissance?
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' embodies key themes of the Harlem Renaissance through its exploration of race, gender, and identity. The novel presents a nuanced portrayal of African American life and culture, challenging prevailing stereotypes while celebrating personal agency. Janie's journey toward self-discovery resonates with the movement's goal to express authentic voices and experiences within the African American community.
• Discuss the significance of Janie Crawford's character development throughout 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' in relation to societal norms.
  • Janie Crawford's character development is significant as it represents a rejection of traditional societal norms regarding marriage and gender roles. Throughout her three marriages, she evolves from a submissive figure into an empowered individual who seeks her own voice and desires. This transformation not only critiques societal expectations but also reflects the broader quest for identity that many individuals experienced during the Harlem Renaissance.
• Evaluate how Zora Neale Hurston's use of dialect contributes to the overall impact of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' within its historical context.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's use of dialect in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' enhances its authenticity and emotional resonance while immersing readers in the cultural landscape of African American life in the early 20th century. By employing vernacular speech, Hurston captures the richness of her characters' experiences and fosters a deeper connection with their struggles and triumphs. This linguistic choice not only preserves cultural heritage but also aligns with the Harlem Renaissance's mission to elevate African American voices in literature and art.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

'Harlem Renaissance' refers to a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing the talents of African American artists, writers, musicians, and thinkers.

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.

Folk Narrative: 'Folk Narrative' is a storytelling tradition that incorporates oral histories, myths, and legends passed down through generations, often reflecting cultural values and experiences.