Their Eyes Were Watching God

Definition

Their Eyes Were Watching God is a novel written by Zora Neale Hurston, published in 1937, which centers around the life of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century. The novel explores themes of identity, love, and self-discovery, making significant contributions to the understanding of African American women's experiences during and after the Harlem Renaissance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel is notable for its use of dialect, which adds authenticity to the characters and captures the rich oral tradition of African American culture.
2. The protagonist, Janie Crawford, goes through three marriages that each teach her different lessons about love, independence, and self-identity.
3. The horizon is a recurring symbol throughout the novel representing Janie's dreams and aspirations for a fulfilling life.
4. The book was initially met with mixed reviews but has since become a classic of African American literature and feminist literary canon.
5. Their Eyes Were Watching God challenges traditional gender roles by portraying Janie's quest for personal freedom and self-fulfillment in a patriarchal society.

Review Questions

• How does Zora Neale Hurston's portrayal of Janie Crawford reflect key themes of identity and self-discovery in African American literature?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's portrayal of Janie Crawford emphasizes the struggle for identity and self-discovery as Janie navigates through her relationships and societal expectations. Each of Janie's three marriages reveals different aspects of her character and desires, showcasing her evolution from a submissive partner to an independent woman. This journey resonates with broader themes in African American literature that seek to explore personal autonomy within a racially and gendered context.
• Discuss the impact of Their Eyes Were Watching God on the Harlem Renaissance and its legacy in contemporary literature.
  • Their Eyes Were Watching God had a profound impact on the Harlem Renaissance by highlighting the unique voices of African American women writers at a time when they were often marginalized. The novel's celebration of Black female empowerment and its authentic representation of rural Southern life broadened the scope of African American literature. Its legacy continues today, influencing contemporary writers who seek to address similar themes of race, gender, and identity while drawing inspiration from Hurston's innovative narrative style.
• Evaluate how symbolism in Their Eyes Were Watching God contributes to our understanding of Janie's journey toward independence and fulfillment.
  • The symbolism present in Their Eyes Were Watching God plays a crucial role in illustrating Janie's quest for independence and fulfillment. For instance, the horizon represents her dreams and aspirations that she strives toward throughout her life. Additionally, the pear tree symbolizes Janie's ideal vision of love and harmony. By analyzing these symbols, readers gain insight into how Janie's experiences shape her understanding of herself and ultimately lead her to embrace her individuality within a restrictive society.

Related terms

Zora Neale Hurston:

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

Symbolism: A literary device that uses symbols to represent ideas or qualities; in this novel, symbols like the horizon and the pear tree illustrate Janie's journey toward self-realization.

Folk Culture: The traditions, customs, and stories of a community; Hurston’s use of dialect and folk elements enriches the narrative and captures the essence of African American culture.