Their Eyes Were Watching God

Definition

Their Eyes Were Watching God is a novel written by Zora Neale Hurston, published in 1937, that explores the life of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century South. The book is notable for its rich use of dialect and its profound themes of love, independence, and self-discovery, making it a significant contribution to American literature and especially to African American literary tradition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel is set in Eatonville, Florida, one of the first all-Black towns in America, which serves as a backdrop for Janie's journey toward self-realization.
2. The narrative style incorporates rich dialect and imagery, highlighting African American culture and community life in the South.
3. Janie's relationships with three significant men symbolize different stages of her search for identity and independence: Logan Killicks, Joe Starks, and Tea Cake.
4. The book addresses themes such as gender roles, the quest for self-fulfillment, and the impact of societal expectations on personal relationships.
5. Their Eyes Were Watching God received mixed reviews upon its release but has since been recognized as a classic of American literature and is studied widely for its themes and literary style.

Review Questions

• How does Zora Neale Hurston's use of dialect contribute to the authenticity of the characters and setting in Their Eyes Were Watching God?
  • Hurston's use of dialect brings an authentic voice to her characters and vividly portrays the Southern Black community. By incorporating the natural speech patterns and idioms of her characters, she immerses readers in their world, making their experiences relatable and genuine. This stylistic choice enriches the narrative and allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural context surrounding Janie's life.
• Discuss the significance of Janie Crawford's relationships in Their Eyes Were Watching God and how they reflect her journey toward self-discovery.
  • Janie's relationships with Logan Killicks, Joe Starks, and Tea Cake each represent different aspects of her quest for identity. Logan symbolizes societal expectations and stability but lacks love. Joe Starks represents ambition but suppresses Janie's voice. In contrast, Tea Cake offers companionship and respect, allowing Janie to express herself fully. Through these relationships, Janie learns about love, independence, and ultimately discovers her own voice.
• Analyze how Their Eyes Were Watching God addresses broader themes of race and gender in the context of early 20th century America and its relevance today.
  • Their Eyes Were Watching God tackles complex themes of race and gender by portraying Janie’s struggle against both racial oppression and patriarchal constraints. Hurston's exploration of Janie's search for autonomy reflects the intersections of identity that many women of color face today. The novel’s portrayal of a Black woman asserting her independence continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about feminism and race relations, highlighting ongoing struggles for equality and self-expression.

Related terms

Zora Neale Hurston:

An influential African American author and anthropologist known for her contributions to literature, particularly in the Harlem Renaissance.

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, celebrating African American cultural expression.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities; in Hurston's work, elements like the horizon symbolize Janie's aspirations and dreams.