Themes of Resilience in their Eyes were Watching God

Themes in "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston explore profound human and societal dynamics. Among the most significant are the themes of gender, love, and jealousy. These themes are intricately woven through the life of the protagonist, Janie Crawford, as she navigates her relationships and personal growth. By examining these themes, we can gain a deeper understanding of Janie's journey and the broader commentary on society that Hurston offers. The novel delves into the complexities of these themes through Janie's interactions with her husbands and relatives, offering a nuanced exploration of her character development and the societal constraints she faces.

Gender and Societal Expectations

The theme of gender is a pervasive and significant force in "Their Eyes Were Watching God." Throughout the novel, Hurston illustrates the patriarchal society in which Janie lives, where men often see themselves as superior to women and dictate their roles and duties. This theme is particularly evident in Janie's marriages, where her husbands attempt to impose their will upon her. For instance, Janie's first husband, Logan Killicks, expects her to bear the burden of physical labor. He tells her, "If ah kin haul de wood heah and chop it fuh yuh, look lak you oughta be able tuh tote it inside" (Hurston 26). Logan's view reflects the societal belief that women should work just as hard, if not harder, than men, while also managing domestic responsibilities.

Moreover, Logan's decision to acquire a second mule, expecting Janie to handle it, underscores the gender dynamics at play. He states, "Naw I need two mules dis yeah. Taters is goin’ tuh be taters in de fall. Bringin’ big prices. Ah aims tuh run two plows, and dis man Ah’m talkin’ ‘bout is got uh mule all gentler up so even uh women kin handle ‘Im” (Hurston 27). This expectation highlights the entrenched gender roles that define Janie's existence, forcing her to conform to a life of labor and submission.

Similarly, Janie's second husband, Joe Starks, perpetuates these gender norms. Joe's treatment of Janie in his store reveals his domineering attitude. "De way he rears and pitches in de store sometimes when she make uh mistake is sort of ungodly" (Hurston 50). Joe's public displays of anger indicate his belief that Janie should work flawlessly and adhere to his commands. This behavior not only reflects gender expectations but also highlights the power dynamics in their marriage.

The Quest for True Love

Love is another central theme that shapes Janie's journey. Throughout the novel, Janie embarks on a quest to find true love, only to discover that love is not guaranteed by marriage. Her initial belief that love naturally follows marriage is challenged by her experiences. In her first marriage to Logan Killicks, Janie waits for love to blossom, believing that marriage would bring it about: "The house was absent of flavor, too. But anyhow Janie went on inside to wait for her love to begin." (Hurston 22). This expectation reveals Janie's naivety about love, a sentiment that she eventually questions.

Janie's realization that love is not solely a product of marriage comes to the forefront in her relationship with Joe Starks. "She knew now that marriage did not make love." (Hurston 25). This pivotal moment marks a turning point in Janie's understanding of love, as she begins to recognize the importance of emotional connection and mutual respect in a loving relationship. Her journey towards finding genuine love is fraught with challenges, but it ultimately leads her to a deeper understanding of what love truly means.

Jealousy and Control

Jealousy is another significant theme that impacts Janie's life and relationships. Joe Starks' jealousy becomes evident when he insists that Janie cover her hair while working in the store. "Whut make her keep her head tied up lak some ole ‘oman round de store? Nobody couldn’t git me tuh tie no rag on mah head if Ah had hair lak dat." (Hurston 49). Joe's insistence on Janie covering her hair is driven by his fear that other men will find her attractive, revealing the extent of his insecurity and desire for control.

This possessiveness highlights the broader theme of jealousy and its impact on relationships. Joe's actions stem from a desire to maintain power over Janie, fearing that her beauty and independence could attract other suitors. Janie's response to this jealousy is complex; she is aware of Joe's motivations and chooses to comply, understanding that jealousy is a natural human emotion. However, this does not diminish the oppressive nature of Joe's actions and the impact they have on Janie's autonomy.

Conclusion

In "Their Eyes Were Watching God," Zora Neale Hurston masterfully explores the themes of gender, love, and jealousy, using them as lenses to examine Janie Crawford's journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. Through her experiences with her husbands and the societal norms she navigates, Janie gains valuable insights into these themes and their influence on her life. The novel ultimately serves as a powerful critique of the societal expectations that constrain women and a celebration of Janie's resilience and growth. As Janie learns to navigate the intricacies of love, confront the challenges of gender roles, and understand the complexities of jealousy, she emerges as a symbol of strength and independence. This thematic exploration not only enriches Janie's character but also offers readers a profound reflection on the human experience and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

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