Their Eyes Were Watching God

Definition

Their Eyes Were Watching God is a novel by Zora Neale Hurston, published in 1937, that centers on the life of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century South. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, love, and gender roles, while also addressing the intersectionality of race and gender within feminist literature, showcasing how Janie's journey is shaped by her experiences as a Black woman in a patriarchal society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zora Neale Hurston's novel is often considered a seminal work in both African American literature and feminist literature due to its focus on a Black woman's perspective.
2. The narrative is framed through Janie's three marriages, each representing different aspects of her quest for independence and self-discovery.
3. The setting of Eatonville, Florida, serves as a backdrop that highlights themes of community and isolation in relation to Janie's identity as a Black woman.
4. Janie's journey is marked by her struggles against societal expectations and her pursuit of love and autonomy, which reflects broader issues within feminist discourse.
5. The novel employs rich symbolism, particularly with the horizon as a metaphor for Janie's dreams and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of personal agency.

Review Questions

• How does the novel depict the intersectionality of race and gender through Janie's character development?
  • In Their Eyes Were Watching God, Janie's character development vividly illustrates the intersectionality of race and gender. As a Black woman in the early 20th century South, Janie faces unique challenges that shape her identity and experiences. Her journey reflects the compounded oppression she encounters due to both her race and gender, demonstrating how these identities influence her relationships and her quest for self-empowerment.
• Analyze how Zora Neale Hurston's narrative techniques contribute to the themes of feminism in the novel.
  • Hurston employs a unique narrative style that combines dialect with poetic language, which enhances the authenticity of Janie's voice. This approach allows readers to connect deeply with Janie's experiences and emotions. By placing Janie's story at the forefront and prioritizing her perspective, Hurston challenges traditional narratives that often silence women. This narrative technique not only underscores feminist themes but also celebrates Black female identity and resilience.
• Evaluate the significance of the horizon as a symbol in Their Eyes Were Watching God and its connection to feminist ideals.
  • The horizon serves as a powerful symbol in Their Eyes Were Watching God, representing Janie's aspirations, dreams, and quest for freedom. As she navigates her relationships and societal expectations, the horizon embodies her desire for self-actualization and fulfillment. This symbol aligns with feminist ideals by emphasizing the importance of agency and autonomy in a woman's life. Janie's pursuit of her horizon reflects the broader struggle for women's empowerment and the rejection of limiting societal roles.

Related terms

Intersectionality: A concept that examines how various social identities such as race, gender, and class intersect and impact individuals' experiences of oppression and privilege.

Feminist Literature: A genre of literature that seeks to highlight women's experiences, challenge gender norms, and promote gender equality through the exploration of women's voices and stories.

Self-Actualization: The realization or fulfillment of one's talents and potential, often seen as a central theme in literature focusing on personal growth and identity.