Their Eyes Were Watching God
by Zora Neale Hurston
About This Novel
Their Eyes Were Watching God is a 1937 novel by African-American writer Zora Neale Hurston. It is considered a classic of the Harlem Renaissance and is frequently studied in American literature courses. The story follows Janie Crawford, a resilient and independent woman, through her journey of self-discovery.
Set in central and southern Florida in the early 20th century, the novel explores themes of love, personal growth, and the search for identity. Hurston's use of African American Vernacular English and her vivid portrayal of Black Southern culture make this work both linguistically rich and culturally significant.
Through Janie's three marriages and her ultimate quest for independence, Hurston crafts a powerful narrative about a woman's right to define herself and pursue her dreams, making it a pioneering work of feminist literature.