Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American author and anthropologist, best known for her works that celebrate Black culture and explore themes of race, identity, and community in the early 20th century. Her most notable work, 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' highlights the experiences of African American women, connecting personal narratives to broader social issues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 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 United States.
2. She studied anthropology at Barnard College under Franz Boas and conducted fieldwork on African American folklore in the South.
3. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' published in 1937, is considered a seminal work in African American literature and has been widely studied for its exploration of gender roles and self-discovery.
4. Hurston's writing often incorporates elements of Southern Black dialect and folklore, showcasing her cultural roots and the richness of Black life.
5. Despite facing significant challenges during her lifetime, including poverty and criticism from contemporaries, Hurston's legacy as a pioneer of Black literature has only grown since her death in 1960.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing influence her literary works?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Eatonville, Florida, a vibrant all-Black community, significantly influenced her literary works. The rich culture, traditions, and oral histories she experienced as a child shaped her understanding of African American life. Her novels often reflect the authenticity of Black voices and celebrate cultural heritage while addressing social issues related to race and gender.
• Discuss how Hurston's work contributed to the Harlem Renaissance and its impact on African American literature.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's work played a vital role in the Harlem Renaissance by showcasing the depth and diversity of African American culture. Her emphasis on Black identity and cultural expression resonated with other artists of the time. Through her unique storytelling style and focus on vernacular speech, Hurston helped pave the way for future generations of writers to explore their cultural roots within their narratives.
• Evaluate the significance of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' within the context of early 20th-century literature and its lasting impact today.
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' holds significant importance in early 20th-century literature as it presents a powerful narrative centered on an African American woman's journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. The novel's exploration of themes like love, independence, and societal expectations challenged conventional norms at the time. Its lasting impact continues to inspire discussions about race, gender roles, and personal agency in literature and beyond, affirming Hurston's status as a foundational figure in both African American literature and feminist discourse.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural movement in the 1920s that celebrated African American art, music, literature, and intellectualism, marking a period of great creativity and social change.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and practices of a community, which Hurston famously documented in her anthropological work.

Anthropology: The study of human societies and cultures, which Hurston pursued alongside her literary career, contributing to her rich character development and storytelling.