Zora Neale Hurston

Definition

Zora Neale Hurston was a prominent African American author and anthropologist in the early 20th century, best known for her contributions to literature that explore the experiences and cultural heritage of Black Americans. Her work, particularly the novel 'Their Eyes Were Watching God,' is celebrated for its rich storytelling and deep portrayal of African American life in the South, making her a significant figure in the recovery of lost narratives from marginalized voices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and grew up in Eatonville, Florida, which became a central theme in her writing.
2. She was a key figure during the Harlem Renaissance and is noted for her use of vernacular language, capturing the authentic voice of African American communities.
3. Hurston's anthropological studies included extensive research on African American folklore, which she incorporated into her fiction to highlight cultural richness.
4. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is considered one of her most important works, illustrating themes of self-discovery and empowerment for African American women.
5. Despite facing criticism during her lifetime and being overlooked after her death in 1960, Hurston's work has been rediscovered and celebrated as a vital part of American literature.

Review Questions

• How did Zora Neale Hurston's upbringing influence her writing and perspective on African American culture?
  • Growing up in Eatonville, Florida, an all-Black town, significantly shaped Hurston's worldview and literary voice. Her experiences allowed her to deeply engage with African American folklore and traditions. This background is evident in her works, where she vividly captures the nuances of Black life in America, highlighting the importance of cultural identity and community.
• Discuss the impact of Zora Neale Hurston's work on the literary canon regarding marginalized voices in America.
  • Hurston's work challenged the prevailing narratives about African Americans by presenting authentic voices and experiences that were often ignored. By integrating folklore and vernacular language into her stories, she enriched the literary canon with perspectives that reflected the complexities of Black life. Her contributions have led to a broader recognition and inclusion of marginalized voices within American literature.
• Evaluate how Zora Neale Hurston's anthropological background influenced her storytelling techniques and thematic focus in her writings.
  • Hurston's training as an anthropologist profoundly influenced her approach to storytelling. She employed ethnographic methods to gather folklore and cultural stories from African American communities, infusing her narratives with authentic voices and cultural context. This blend of anthropology and literature allowed her to explore themes of identity, resilience, and community dynamics within Black culture, which set her apart as a pioneering figure in both fields.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance:

A cultural movement in the 1920s that celebrated African American artistic expression and highlighted the achievements of Black writers, musicians, and artists.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community passed down through generations, often reflected in Hurston's writing.

Literary Canon: A collection of literary works considered to be authoritative or essential in a particular culture, where Hurston's contributions have increasingly gained recognition.