Questions and Answers
According to the book, what has the woman come back from doing?
burying the dead
Why did all the people see her come?
Everyone could see the woman because the sun was going down, and everyone had finished work and was sitting outside.
What do they remember about the woman?
They remember the envy they felt when she left.
What do the men notice about Janie as she walks down the street, and what do the women notice about her?
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What does Pheoby bring for Janie?
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What is Janie doing as Pheoby walks in?
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According to Sam Watson, why do the residents of Eatonville want to rise on Judgment Day?
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Why does Sam want to rise as well?
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Does Janie intend to tell the residents of Eatonville what happened while she was gone?
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What does Janie mean when she says 'unless you see de fur, a mink skin ain't no different from a coon hide'?
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Who is the main character?
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What is her situation at the beginning of the novel?
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What was Janie's most noticeable physical characteristic?
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Who was Janie's best friend?
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Study Notes
Key Characters and Relationships
- Janie Mae Crawford is the main character of the story, returning home after an extended absence.
- Pheoby Watson is Janie’s best friend and plays a significant role in providing comfort and support.
Social Setting
- Residents of Eatonville are depicted as observant, gathering outside due to the setting sun after work.
- There is a sense of community with neighbors watching Janie's return, highlighting societal dynamics.
Janie's Appearance and Reaction
- Janie is noted for her beautiful body and long dark hair, which catches the attention of men.
- Women, however, criticize her by focusing on her dirty clothes, indicating a contrast in perspectives.
Themes of Judgment and Secrets
- Sam Watson suggests that Judgment Day will reveal secrets, and the community attends church with the hope of rising to Heaven, seeking gossip-worthy stories.
- Humorously, Sam's motivation to rise is driven by personal curiosity regarding his lost corn-cob pipe.
Janie’s Narrative Approach
- Janie expresses her intention to share her story only with Pheoby, deeming it not worth the trouble to tell others.
- Her metaphor comparing mink and raccoon skins underscores the importance of understanding the complete context before judging a situation.
Symbolism and Metaphors
- The phrase about mink and coon hides symbolizes deeper understanding versus superficial appearance, reflecting Janie's complex experiences and narratives.
Food and Friendship
- Pheoby brings mulatto rice, signifying caring friendship and traditional Southern hospitality.
- Janie is depicted as nurturing herself with small rituals, such as soaking her feet, reflecting self-care amidst her return.
Community Dynamics
- The collective memory of the townspeople regarding Janie is marked by envy, hinting at underlying tensions in the community.
- The opening chapter sets the stage for themes of gossip, judgment, and the search for personal identity amidst societal expectations.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Chapter 1 of 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' with these flashcards. Explore key events, character observations, and themes highlighted in this opening chapter. Perfect for a deeper understanding of the text.
