Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was an influential African American author, anthropologist, and a key figure of the Harlem Renaissance, known for her contributions to literature that celebrated African American culture and folklore. Her most famous work, 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' showcases her deep understanding of black life in the early 20th century and integrates rich folklore elements, including stories about characters like Br'er Rabbit that reflect resilience and wit in the face of adversity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and later grew up in Eatonville, Florida, which is one of the first all-black towns in the United States.
2. She studied anthropology at Barnard College and conducted research on African American folklore, which heavily influenced her literary works.
3. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' published in 1937, is considered a seminal work in African American literature and has been praised for its lyrical prose and strong female protagonist.
4. Hurston's use of dialect in her writing authentically represents the voices of her characters and preserves the richness of African American culture.
5. Despite facing criticism during her lifetime for her portrayal of African American life, Hurston's work has since gained recognition as pivotal in understanding the complexities of race and gender in America.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's background influence her writing style and themes?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Eatonville, Florida—a vibrant all-black community—greatly influenced her writing style and themes. Her experiences immersed in rich oral traditions allowed her to authentically capture African American dialects and folklore in her works. This background is evident in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' where she weaves elements of folk tales like those of Br'er Rabbit to illustrate resilience and identity within the black experience.
• Discuss the role of folklore in Zora Neale Hurston's works and its significance to African American culture.
  • Folklore plays a crucial role in Zora Neale Hurston's works as it serves to preserve cultural heritage while offering profound insights into the lives of African Americans. Through her use of folklore—especially characters like Br'er Rabbit—she reflects themes of cunningness and survival against oppression. This incorporation not only celebrates African American traditions but also empowers readers by highlighting resilience through storytelling, making it an essential aspect of her literary contributions.
• Evaluate the impact of Zora Neale Hurston's literature on contemporary discussions about race and gender.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's literature significantly impacts contemporary discussions around race and gender by challenging stereotypes and highlighting the complexities of black womanhood. Her focus on strong female characters who navigate societal challenges resonates with modern feminist discourse. Additionally, by depicting authentic experiences within African American communities, Hurston's work encourages critical conversations about identity and intersectionality that remain relevant today, making her a vital figure in both historical and modern literary contexts.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s that celebrated African American cultural expressions through literature, music, and art.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, often passed down through generations, which form an essential part of cultural identity.

Br'er Rabbit:

A trickster character from African American folklore, known for using cleverness and cunning to outsmart larger and stronger foes, often depicted in stories that convey moral lessons.