Illustration of the profile of Janine Crawford and another person facing each other

Their Eyes Were Watching God

by Zora Neale Hurston

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Themes: Search for Self

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Although the novel follows Janie's journey through three relationships, most critics contend that the primary theme is her quest for self-identity. Janie must resist her grandmother's influence, which encourages her to prioritize security over personal fulfillment, as well as the stifling effects of her first two husbands on her growth. Joe Starks, her second husband, is particularly obstructive to her development. His middle-class aspirations reduce Janie to a mere representation of his social standing, forcing her to adhere to his standards of propriety and distancing her from the community's social life. When Joe becomes mayor, he asks her to say “a few words uh encouragement,” but interrupts with, “man wife don’t know nothin’ ’bout no speech-makin’. Ah never married her for her nothin’ lak dat. She’s uh woman and her place is in de home.” This public dismissal leaves Janie feeling “cold,” as it strips her of the opportunity to decide for herself whether to speak. Throughout their marriage, Janie represses her own desires to such an extent that she loses sight of them. However, following Joe's death, she finds an unprecedented sense of freedom.

When the youthful Tea Cake enters her life, Janie realizes she has spent too long conforming to Joe's and the town's expectations. She rejects their plans for her and marries a younger man. Her relationship with Tea Cake opens up new avenues for self-exploration. Nonetheless, some critics argue that Tea Cake poses another obstacle to Janie's self-discovery. In certain aspects, their relationship is conventional, with Janie deferring to Tea Cake's decisions and accompanying him on his adventures. She tells him, “Once upon uh time, Ah never ’spected nothin’, Tea Cake, but bein’ dead from the standin’ still and tryin’ tuh laugh. But you come ’long and made somethin’ out me.” Such remarks lead critics to question the extent of Janie's achievement in discovering her true self. Some interpret the ending as a reinforcement that a woman must attain self-discovery independently. By killing Tea Cake in self-defense, despite her deep sorrow, Janie completes her developmental journey. She now comprehends her identity and has found “peace.” The narrator concludes, “She pulled in her horizon like a great fish-net,” signifying that Janie no longer seeks external validation; she has discovered meaning within herself.

Expert Q&A

What does the quote "She stood there until something fell off the shelf inside her then she went inside there to see what it was" mean?

The quote symbolizes Janie's realization that her perception of Joe Starks was an illusion. Initially, she believed in his potential and ignored signs of his true nature. However, after Joe slaps her, she acknowledges the reality of his oppressive behavior and understands she had been deceiving herself about his character.

In Their Eyes Were Watching God, what does the horizon symbolize for Janie?

In Their Eyes Were Watching God, the horizon symbolizes Janie's aspirations and dreams. Initially, it represents her hope for equality and love in marriage, which she seeks through her relationships with Logan, Joe, and finally Tea Cake. Despite societal pressures and personal setbacks, Janie persistently pursues her dreams, and by the novel's end, she symbolically "pulls in her horizons," indicating she has achieved her goals.

Can you explain the final quote from the book?

"She pulled in her horizon like a great fish-net. Pulled it from around the waist of the world and draped it over her shoulder. So much of life in its meshes. She called in her soul to come and see."

The final quote symbolizes Janie's newfound independence and self-discovery. Throughout the novel, the horizon represents dreams and possibilities that seem out of reach. Initially constrained by societal and marital roles, Janie ultimately gains control over her own destiny, unlike the men who remain bound by limitations. By "pulling in her horizon," she embraces her inner strength and autonomy, finding meaning within herself rather than seeking it externally.

What is the significance of Zora Neale Hurston’s quote “So her soul crawled out from its hiding place”?

The significance and meaning behind Zora Neale Hurston’s famous quote “So her soul crawled out from its hiding place” relates to the way in which Janie’s keen love for Tea Cake makes her feel simultaneously free and obligated.

What might the metaphor "Like a great tree in leaf with the things suffered, things enjoyed, things done and undone" mean in Their Eyes Were Watching God?

The metaphor "like a great tree in leaf" in Their Eyes Were Watching God symbolizes the complex, multifaceted nature of Janie's life, encompassing both joyous and painful experiences. It suggests growth, development, and the coexistence of beginnings and endings. The tree imagery reflects Janie's personal journey through love, disappointment, and self-discovery, illustrating how life's varied experiences collectively shape one's identity.

What is the significance of the phrasing in this quote from Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God?

"Ah can't die easy thinkin' maybe de menfolks white or black is makin' a spit cup outta you: Have some sympathy fuh me. Put me down easy, Janie, Ah'm a cracked plate."

The phrasing in the quote from Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God is significant for its use of rural southern dialect, which enhances the character's authenticity. It highlights themes of gender and racial relations, and employs vivid, memorable language. Nanny's plea for sympathy and her metaphor of being a "cracked plate" reveal her vulnerability and foreshadow her death, showcasing Hurston's skillful dialogue.

How could Janie from Their Eyes Were Watching God be considered a feminist and what flaws might a feminist find in her?

Janie from Their Eyes Were Watching God could be considered a feminist due to her eventual confidence, independence, and desire to live life on her own terms. However, her early focus on marriage and romance, and her victimization in abusive marriages, might be seen as flaws by some feminists. Her journey reflects a complex interplay of personal growth and the societal constraints of her time.

What is the importance of horizons in Their Eyes Were Watching God and how do Janie's partners affect this?

Horizons in "Their Eyes Were Watching God" symbolize Janie's quest for self-awareness and true love. Her partners significantly influence her perception of these horizons. With Logan Killicks, her horizon is limited by a loveless marriage. Joe Starks expands her physical horizon but restricts her emotionally. Tea Cake, however, offers a fulfilling partnership that aligns with her dreams. Ultimately, Janie's journey concludes with the realization that her horizons, particularly those with Tea Cake, are internal and enduring.

How does Janie gain her voice and control over her life in chapters 1-9?

In chapters 1-9, Janie gradually gains her voice and control over her life through her relationships with her grandmother, Logan Killicks, and Joe Starks. Initially struggling to assert her identity, Janie eventually finds her voice when confronting Joe on his deathbed. This moment marks a turning point where she demands to be heard and understood, ultimately establishing her independence and ability to express her own thoughts and desires.

How does Janie's relationship with each husband relate to her quest for self-discovery?

Janie's relationships with her three husbands in Their Eyes Were Watching God reflect her journey of self-discovery. With Logan Killicks, she learns that security without love is unfulfilling. Joe Starks offers her status but treats her as a possession, prompting Janie to assert her independence. Finally, Tea Cake provides a partnership where Janie feels equal and free, leading to her ultimate self-realization and independence.

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