Women’s Suffrage and Gender Inequality in Literature

On August 18, 1920, a landmark event in American history occurred when the U. S. Constitution was amended to grant women the right to vote, culminating nearly a century of relentless struggle and persistent advocacy. Women's suffrage has remained a cornerstone in the historical narrative of the United States, symbolizing the tireless fight for gender equality. This victory was not just a legal milestone but also a cultural and social turning point, reflecting the protests and sacrifices women made to claim their rightful place in the democratic process.

However, despite this significant achievement, the journey toward complete gender equality was far from over. Injustice persisted, particularly in the workplace and in broader societal contexts, where women continued to face discrimination and inequality.

"Their Eyes Were Watching God"

The breakthrough novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God," written by Zora Neale Hurston in 1937, provides a profound exploration of the gender inequalities and mistreatment that women, especially African American women, faced during that era. The narrative follows the life of the protagonist, Janie Crawford, who seeks love and self-realization through her marriages to three different men: Logan, Joe, and Tea Cake. Each of these relationships reflects various forms of mistreatment and the pervasive sexism of the time.

For instance, Joe Starks, Janie's second husband, embodies the patriarchal mindset that sought to confine women to domestic roles. He famously declares, "Somebody got to think for women and chillun and chickens and cows. I god, they sho don’t think none theirselves" (Hurston 67). This statement exemplifies the ingrained belief that women were incapable of independent thought and were merely extensions of their husbands. Although the novel was written 17 years after women gained the right to vote, it highlights the persistent societal attitudes that continued to deny women their full rights and humanity.

Challenging Traditional Gender Roles

Throughout the novel, Janie experiences and ultimately challenges the mistreatment and sexism imposed by her husbands. In her marriage to Joe, Janie is expected to remain silent and submissive, as Joe insists that her place is in the home, not in the public sphere. When the townspeople of Eatonville urge Janie to speak after Joe becomes mayor, he refuses, stating, "…mah wife don’t know nothin’ bout no speech-makin’. Ah never married her for nothin’ lak dat. She’s uh woman and her place is in de home" (Hurston 43). This scene underscores the societal expectation that women should be seen but not heard, a notion that Hurston critiques through Janie's eventual rebellion against such constraints.

Hurston's narrative is a powerful commentary on the struggle for women's rights, emphasizing the importance of rebellion and breaking traditions. As Janie begins to assert herself and defy the limitations placed on her, she becomes a symbol of women's fight for autonomy and equality. Her defiance is reminiscent of the suffragists who fought for the right to vote, as both challenged the status quo and sought to redefine women's roles in society.

Education and Gender Inequality

Another significant theme in the novel is the impact of education, or the lack thereof, on women's rights and opportunities. In the mid-twentieth century, many women were denied access to education, which was seen as unnecessary for their roles as wives and mothers. This educational disparity reinforced gender inequality, as men were afforded more opportunities and intellectual advantages. An article discussing gender inequality in education notes that "girls are not receiving the same quality, or even quantity, of education as their male classmates in both subjects" (Asimeng-Boahene). This lack of education not only limited women's opportunities but also restricted their ability to articulate and advocate for themselves, as seen in the character of Janie's grandmother, Nanny.

Nanny, who was a former slave, lacked formal education and sought a better life for Janie by ensuring she had financial security. Her decision to arrange Janie's marriage to Logan Killicks was driven by a desire to protect Janie from the hardships she had endured. Nanny's actions highlight the intersection of gender and race in shaping women's experiences and the limitations imposed by a lack of education.

Racial Barriers and Women's Rights

The novel also addresses the racial barriers that compounded the struggles of African American women in the early 20th century. While white women faced gender-based oppression, African American women endured the dual burdens of racism and sexism. Since the mid-19th century, African American women have been at the forefront of the fight for freedom and equality, often facing additional hurdles due to racial discrimination. This intersectionality is crucial to understanding the broader context of women's rights, as the suffrage movement itself was shaped by racial dynamics.

The struggle for women's suffrage was not just about gender equality but also about racial equality. An article on civil rights notes that "Women, Native Americans, and Asians faced many of the same handicaps as blacks in the decades following the Civil War" (Civil Rights). African American women, in particular, played a pivotal role in advocating for equal rights and challenging the societal norms that sought to silence them. Their activism laid the groundwork for future generations to continue the fight for justice and equality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while significant progress has been made in the fight for women's rights since the ratification of the 19th Amendment, the journey toward true gender equality is ongoing. Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" offers a poignant exploration of the challenges faced by women, particularly African American women, in their quest for autonomy and self-fulfillment. The novel underscores the importance of challenging traditional gender roles, advocating for education, and addressing the intersectionality of race and gender in the struggle for equality.

Today, women have more opportunities and rights than ever before, with increased access to education and representation in various professional fields. However, the fight against gender inequality continues, as women still face disparities in pay, representation, and societal expectations. By examining the historical and literary contexts of women's rights, we can better understand the complexities of this ongoing struggle and work toward a more equitable future for all.

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