Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Their Eyes Are Watching God
Their Eyes Are Watching God
Group three.
5.Deborah Mwongeli-BED-05-0044/2020
7.Billah Atieno-Bed-05-0174/202
9. Mukire Peter
Bed-05-0149/2020
PLOT SUMMARY
"Zora Neale Hurston's book "Their Eyes Were Watching God" was originally released
in 1937. The novel is a coming-of-age tale that follows Janie Crawford, the heroine,
as she negotiates her path to independence and self-discovery while bucking gender
After her mother abandons her while she's very young, Janie is raised by her
considerably older farmer, because of her experiences with slavery and her wish for
Janie to live in financial security. Despite Nanny's best efforts, Janie is unable to
escape her unhappy and controlling marriage. She yearns for a satisfying partnership
Joe Starks, a gregarious and aspirational traveler, is introduced to Janie. After falling
in love, Joe brings Janie to Eatonville, Florida, where he wants to create a successful
neighborhood. Joe gives Janie more financial stability, but their marriage devolves
into a power struggle. Joe is overbearing and demands that Janie act in a way that
conforms to his ideal of a successful wife. Janie's individuality and dreams are stifled
by this. She longs for love and companionship since she feels alone.
Janie meets Tea Cake, a younger man after Joe passes away. He is pleasant and treats
her with love and respect, unlike her past marriages. They experience a passionate
love affair, and Janie gains a fresh feeling of freedom and self-awareness. Janie and
Tea Cake wed and relocate to Florida's Everglades despite the town's disdain and
rumors.
Janie finds real love and happiness in the Everglades with Tea Cake. Tea Cake
encourages Janie to pursue her aspirations and interests while they work together in
the fields. However, as a strong cyclone hits, their bliss is threatened. Tea Cake gets
attacked by a rabid dog while trying to save Janie during the storm. Tea Cake perishes
Janie is placed on trial for Tea Cake's murder after his passing, but she is exonerated.
She goes back to Eatonville, where she no longer worries about what people will
think of her. She tells her buddy Pheoby about her life, and Pheoby becomes a
Finally, "Their Eyes Were Watching God" is a stirring account of a woman's search
for freedom, love, and identity. The journey of Janie illuminates the complexity of
race, gender, and cultural expectations while highlighting the human spirit's tenacity
Themes:
· Identity and Self-discovery: Janie's quest for identity is a central theme of the
novel. She embarks on a journey to find her voice and authentic self, breaking
· Love and Relationships: The novel explores different aspects of love and
· Race and Gender: The book delves into the intersection of race and gender in
Character Development:
The protagonist in the book experiences a lot of growth, says Janie Crawford. She
first exhibits submission and complies with social norms. But as the narrative goes on,
she grows more self-assured and independent and eventually accepts who she is.
Tea Cake: Tea Cake, Janie's third spouse, is essential to her metamorphosis. He
accords with Janie's equal treatment and encourages her to follow her inclinations.
Joe Starks, Janie's second husband, is a metaphor for aspiration and a need for control.
He makes an effort to exert control over Janie and shape her into the stereotypical
wife.
Narrative Style:
the spirit of the people and their culture. This unique storytelling approach contributes
Symbolism:
The Horizon: Janie's hopes and goals are represented by the horizon. Her perspective
on the future develops as she gets more agency and control over her own life
The Pear Tree: The pear tree frequently represents Janie's search for love and her
aspirations to come true. It stands for her desire for passionate but devoted love.
Social Commentary:
experienced, stressing themes including racial prejudice, gender inequity, and cultural
demands. It also sheds light on the nuanced aspects of African American culture and
interpersonal dynamics.