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 and self-discovery of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century. This powerful narrative reflects themes of love, independence, and the search for identity against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties and the Harlem Renaissance, capturing the vibrant cultural changes and the unique struggles faced by African Americans during this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel is often regarded as a seminal work in African American literature and has been praised for its deep exploration of female empowerment and self-identity.
2. Janie's character embodies the struggle for independence and fulfillment beyond societal expectations, reflecting the changing roles of women during the Roaring Twenties.
3. The narrative style uses rich dialect and incorporates elements of African American folklore, showcasing Hurston's anthropological background and cultural roots.
4. Their Eyes Were Watching God initially received mixed reviews but gained recognition over time as a classic work that addresses themes of race, gender, and personal growth.
5. The book was published during a time when African American writers were beginning to gain more visibility in mainstream literature, significantly contributing to the legacy of the Harlem Renaissance.

Review Questions

• How does Janie Crawford's journey in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' reflect the cultural changes occurring during the Roaring Twenties?
  • Janie Crawford's journey mirrors the cultural changes of the Roaring Twenties by showcasing her quest for independence and self-fulfillment. As women began to assert their rights and challenge traditional gender roles during this time, Janie's experiences with love and personal growth highlight these shifts. Her pursuit of happiness beyond societal expectations illustrates a broader movement among women seeking autonomy and self-expression in a rapidly changing world.
• Analyze how Zora Neale Hurston uses dialect in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' to enhance themes within the narrative.
  • Zora Neale Hurston employs rich dialect throughout 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' to bring authenticity to her characters and reflect their cultural backgrounds. The use of vernacular speech not only grounds the story in its Southern setting but also emphasizes themes of identity and community. By capturing the way her characters speak, Hurston celebrates African American culture while illustrating Janie's personal journey in a way that resonates with readers from various backgrounds.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' on the representation of African American women in literature during the Harlem Renaissance and beyond.
  • 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' significantly impacted the representation of African American women by providing a nuanced portrayal of their struggles, desires, and complexities. The novel challenges stereotypes prevalent in earlier literature by presenting Janie as a strong, independent character who defies societal norms. This emphasis on women's voices helped pave the way for future generations of writers who sought to explore themes of race, gender, and empowerment in their works, establishing a richer literary tradition that continues to influence contemporary discussions around identity.

Related terms

Zora Neale Hurston:

An influential African American author and anthropologist, known for her contributions to literature during the Harlem Renaissance and for her focus on African American culture and folklore.

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem during the 1920s, celebrating African American culture and producing notable works in literature, music, and art.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and practices of a culture, often passed down orally through generations; an important aspect of Hurston's work.