Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American writer, anthropologist, and key figure of the Harlem Renaissance, known for her novels, essays, and folklore collections that celebrated Black culture and identity. Her most famous work, 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' is a seminal piece that explores themes of race, gender, and self-identity, showcasing the richness of African American life during the 1920s.

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 the U.S.
2. She attended Barnard College and became the first African American to graduate from the school, where she studied anthropology under Franz Boas.
3. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' published in 1937, is considered her masterpiece and explores the life of Janie Crawford as she seeks independence and fulfillment.
4. Hurston's work often highlighted the dialect and culture of African Americans in the South, emphasizing their unique voices and experiences.
5. Despite her significant contributions to literature, Hurston faced criticism during her lifetime and struggled with poverty towards the end of her life, but she has since been recognized as a foundational figure in American literature.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's background and education influence her literary works?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Eatonville, Florida—a vibrant all-Black community—greatly influenced her writing style and thematic choices. Her experiences in this unique environment shaped her understanding of African American culture, which she celebrated in her work. Additionally, her education at Barnard College under anthropologist Franz Boas provided her with the tools to study folklore and cultural expressions that enriched her narratives.
• In what ways did Zora Neale Hurston contribute to the Harlem Renaissance and how did her writing reflect the cultural dynamics of the time?
  • Zora Neale Hurston was a key figure of the Harlem Renaissance through her literary contributions that showcased African American culture and identity. Her writings reflected the era's celebration of Black life while addressing issues such as race and gender. By incorporating Southern dialects and folklore into her novels, she provided a voice to Black experiences that diverged from mainstream narratives, making significant impacts on both literature and cultural identity during the 1920s.
• Evaluate Zora Neale Hurston's legacy in contemporary discussions of race and gender in literature. How do her works continue to resonate today?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's legacy is significant in contemporary discussions about race and gender as her works challenge traditional narratives surrounding Black womanhood. Her exploration of self-identity through strong female characters paved the way for future generations of writers to delve into complex issues of race and gender dynamics. Today, 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is frequently studied for its rich portrayal of Black female autonomy, ensuring that Hurston's voice remains relevant in ongoing conversations about equality and representation in literature.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York during the 1920s, highlighting African American literature, music, and art.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community passed down through generations, often reflected in Hurston's writings.

Anthropology: The study of human societies and cultures, which Hurston pursued academically, deeply influencing her literary work.