Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was a prominent African American author, anthropologist, and filmmaker known for her contributions to literature during the Harlem Renaissance. Her work emphasized the importance of African American culture, folklore, and the experiences of Black women, making her a key figure in the literary scene and highlighting Alabama's rich artistic contributions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and later moved to Eatonville, Florida, which influenced much of her writing.
2. She earned a degree in anthropology from Barnard College and used her knowledge of cultural studies to enrich her storytelling with authentic folklore.
3. Her work was often overlooked during her lifetime but has gained significant recognition posthumously, marking her as an essential voice in American literature.
4. Hurston was an advocate for racial pride and self-identity; she believed in the importance of telling African American stories from an insider's perspective.
5. She also faced challenges as a female writer in a male-dominated literary world, yet her unique voice and perspective have made her a celebrated figure in literature today.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's background influence her writing and contributions to literature?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Alabama and her later experiences in Eatonville shaped her literary voice. Growing up in a culturally rich African American community exposed her to folklore and traditions that became central themes in her work. Her education in anthropology also provided her with tools to deeply analyze and portray African American culture authentically, allowing her to weave rich narratives that reflect the complexities of Black life in America.
• Discuss the significance of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' within the context of Zora Neale Hurston's body of work and its impact on literary history.
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is considered a pivotal work in Zora Neale Hurston's career as it encapsulates her unique style that blends folklore with personal narrative. This novel highlights the themes of self-discovery and empowerment through the protagonist Janie's journey. Its initial mixed reception did not overshadow its eventual acclaim as a classic of African American literature, establishing Hurston as a major literary figure whose work paved the way for future writers addressing race and gender issues.
• Evaluate the impact of Zora Neale Hurston's contributions to literature on modern understandings of African American identity and culture.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's work profoundly influences contemporary discussions about African American identity and culture. By using folklore and emphasizing the everyday lives of Black individuals, she challenged prevailing stereotypes and presented a nuanced view of African American experiences. Her emphasis on self-expression and racial pride resonates today, as it encourages a more comprehensive understanding of diverse narratives within the African American community. Hurston's legacy continues to inspire writers and scholars who explore race, gender, and identity.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, celebrating African American culture and producing significant works in literature, music, and visual arts.

Their Eyes Were Watching God:

Zora Neale Hurston's most famous novel, published in 1937, which tells the story of Janie Crawford's journey toward self-discovery and empowerment through her relationships and experiences.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and practices of a particular culture or community, which Hurston often incorporated into her literary works to celebrate African American heritage.