Questions and Answers
What are Janie's concerns regarding Tea Cake?
He is too young, not ready to make a commitment, maybe seeing multiple women, take her money and leave.
What does Janie do when she invites Tea Cake to sit with her on the front porch?
Shows interest in Tea Cake.
What reason does Hezekiah give for warning Janie about Tea Cake?
He might be married and is a 'gold digger'.
What do Janie and Tea Cake do on their second date?
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How does Janie feel when Tea Cake tells her he loves her?
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How does Tea Cake prove his sincerity in his declaration of love?
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How do the townspeople respond to Janie and Tea Cake's relationship?
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What is Janie's decision regarding her relationship with Tea Cake?
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What secret does Janie keep from Tea Cake?
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What does the phrase 'class off' imply in reference to Jody?
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What does Janie find out about the treatment of black and white bodies after the hurricane?
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What is the mood at Tea Cake and Janie's house the night before the storm?
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Describe Tea Cake's death.
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What does Janie take with her for remembrance when leaving Belle Glade?
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What does Janie mean when she tells Phoeby she has been to the horizon and back?
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What is the verdict of Janie's trial?
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Study Notes
Janie and Tea Cake's Relationship Dynamics
- Janie's initial concerns about Tea Cake revolve around his age, commitment issues, and potential financial motives.
- Despite her reservations, Janie warms up to Tea Cake, showing interest by inviting him to join her on the porch.
- Tea Cake's first date involves fishing, indicating a playful and genuine connection.
- Hezekiah warns Janie about Tea Cake, suggesting he might be married or a 'gold digger' aiming to exploit her wealth.
- Janie's comfort with Tea Cake grows during their second date, where she enjoys cooking and music, though she remains skeptical of his affection.
Themes of Love and Trust
- Janie's dream of love is symbolized by the imagery of the 'bee to a blossom,' reflecting her ideal expectations.
- To demonstrate his sincerity, Tea Cake expresses a desire to share his daytime thoughts, which Janie initially dismisses.
- Doubts creep into Janie's mind after Tea Cake leaves, leading her to question his loyalty and intentions.
- Despite societal scrutiny and criticism from the community for her relationship with Tea Cake, Janie remains steadfast, realizing that love takes precedence over social norms.
Decisions and Changes
- Janie's decision to marry Tea Cake and sell her store marks a pivotal moment of personal liberation and pursuit of true love.
- Their wedding in Jacksonville is filled with excitement, contrasting with previous experiences of confinement in her past marriage.
- Janie's secretive nature surfaces when she keeps $200 for emergencies, reflecting her cautious optimism regarding Tea Cake.
- Parallels drawn between Janie's past and Annie Tyler's downfall prompt her introspection about trust and vulnerability.
Struggles and Resilience
- The couple's bond strengthens as they lead a humble life in the Everglades, working closely together and sharing experiences.
- Tea Cake teaches Janie practical skills, deepening their partnership and eliminating societal barriers regarding gender roles.
- Jealousy emerges in Janie when she observes Nunkie's flirtations with Tea Cake; his reassurance strengthens their bond.
Climactic Events and Tragedy
- The narrative intensifies as a hurricane strikes, pushing Tea Cake and Janie into a fight for survival, which culminates in a tragic turn.
- Following the storm, disparities in the treatment of black and white bodies highlight racial injustices in their society.
- Tea Cake contracts rabies and becomes increasingly aggressive, causing Janie distress as he begins to distrust her.
Final Confrontation and Aftermath
- In a desperate act of self-defense, Janie ultimately shoots Tea Cake, reflecting the tragedy of their love amid uncontrollable circumstances.
- At her trial, Janie faces opposition from community members, yet she finds support from the sheriff and doctor.
- The verdict of not guilty acknowledges her actions as a tragic necessity rather than malice.
Reflection and Personal Growth
- The closing scene reveals Janie's profound loss of Tea Cake but also her newfound understanding of love and self-worth.
- As she prepares to leave Belle Glade, Janie's planting of garden seeds signifies hope for new beginnings.
- Her assertion that she has experienced true love allows her to confront life's complexities with a sense of peace and contentment, affirming her resilience.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the key themes and character dynamics in chapters 11 to 20 of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'. This quiz includes thought-provoking questions about Janie's feelings towards Tea Cake and the significance of their interactions. Dive deep into the text and explore Janie's journey.