Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was a prominent African American author, anthropologist, and key figure of the Harlem Renaissance, known for her contributions to literature and cultural history, particularly through her novel 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'. Her work reflected the social and cultural experiences of African Americans in the early 20th century and played a significant role in shaping the artistic and intellectual landscape of the Harlem Renaissance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and she spent much of her childhood in Eatonville, Florida, one of the first all-Black towns in the United States.
2. Hurston's most famous work, 'Their Eyes Were Watching God', published in 1937, explores themes of self-discovery and empowerment through the life of its main character, Janie Crawford.
3. She was heavily influenced by her studies in anthropology at Barnard College under Franz Boas, which informed her portrayal of African American culture in her literary works.
4. Despite facing significant challenges as a Black woman writer during her time, Hurston's unique voice and focus on the experiences of Black women set her apart in the literary world.
5. Hurston's legacy has experienced a revival since the late 20th century, influencing contemporary writers and scholars who celebrate her contributions to both literature and cultural history.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's background influence her literary works and her role in the Harlem Renaissance?
  • Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing in Eatonville, Florida, a predominantly Black town, deeply influenced her writing by providing rich cultural material that she drew upon for her stories. Her experiences as a member of the Harlem Renaissance allowed her to connect with other influential artists while also offering a unique perspective on the lives of Black women. This background fueled her desire to celebrate African American culture through literature, particularly folklore and dialect.
• Discuss the significance of Zora Neale Hurston's work in advancing the representation of African Americans in literature during the Harlem Renaissance.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's work was crucial in advancing the representation of African Americans by focusing on authentic voices and experiences often overlooked by mainstream literature. Through novels like 'Their Eyes Were Watching God', she explored themes such as identity and independence from a female perspective. Her incorporation of folklore showcased the richness of African American oral traditions, helping to elevate these narratives within the literary canon and assert their importance.
• Evaluate how Zora Neale Hurston's contributions to literature and anthropology have shaped contemporary understandings of African American culture.
  • Zora Neale Hurston's dual contributions as a writer and anthropologist have significantly shaped contemporary understandings of African American culture by emphasizing its complexity and diversity. Her anthropological work provided invaluable insights into Black folk traditions and practices that have informed modern scholarship. Additionally, her literary legacy has inspired generations of writers to explore identity and cultural heritage. This holistic view encourages ongoing discussions about race and gender within both academic fields and popular culture.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural, social, and artistic explosion centered in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s, highlighting the contributions of African American artists, writers, and musicians.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and practices of a community or culture, which Hurston extensively studied and incorporated into her writing.

Anthropology: The study of human societies and cultures, which Hurston practiced alongside her writing to better understand and document African American culture.