Their Eyes Were Watching God - Ch. 16 Questions

Questions and Answers

Why do you think Janie and Tea Cake decide to stay in the Everglades?

So they could stay another season on muck

What does Mrs. Turner have against other African-Americans?

What does she want Janie to do?

Why does Mrs. Turner continue to forgive Janie for her rudeness? How does she justify Janie's (and her own) behavior?

She knows that Janie is more white than black; by saying that is how the white folks would act

What do you think of Mrs. Turner and her beliefs? Justify your response.

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Study Notes

Staying in the Everglades

Janie and Tea Cake opt to remain in the Everglades to experience another season on the muck, emphasizing their connection to the land and the community's vibrant lifestyle.

Mrs. Turner's Views

Mrs. Turner harbors prejudice against other African-Americans, believing they are inferior and that her own mixed heritage makes her superior.
She desires for Janie to distance herself from her own community, hoping Janie would align more closely with her vision of racial superiority.

Forgiveness and Justifications

Mrs. Turner continually forgives Janie's perceived rudeness, rationalizing it by attributing Janie's behavior to her more white appearance and demeanor.
This justification reflects her internalized beliefs about race, suggesting that Janie’s actions are indicative of how the "white folks" behave.

Perspective on Mrs. Turner

Mrs. Turner’s beliefs are seen as peculiar and misguided, as identity is shaped by individual choices rather than skin color.
The notion that one's worth is based on race challenges the core values of equality and self-identity within the African-American community.

Description

Test your understanding of Chapter 16 from Zora Neale Hurston's 'Their Eyes Were Watching God.' This quiz covers key themes and character relationships, particularly focusing on Janie and Mrs. Turner's perspectives. Explore the motivations and social dynamics at play in this pivotal chapter.