Their Eyes Were Watching God Symbols & Motifs

Questions and Answers

What does 'The Horizon' represent?

Obstacles

Stagnation

Fear of the unknown

Change and potential (correct)

What does 'The Road' symbolize for Janie?

The pathway through life (correct)

A journey back in time

A dead end

An obstacle

'The Pear Tree' symbolizes what ideal for Janie?

An ideal relationship without possession or domination.

What does 'The Great Tree' represent?

Human nature and varied experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What do Janie's hair represent?

Both A and B Signup and view all the answers

What does 'The Hurricane' remind us of?

The power of God and nature Signup and view all the answers

What does 'The Mule' represent?

Oppression and cruelty. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'The Sun' symbolize?

The passage of time and change. Signup and view all the answers

What do 'The Head Rags' symbolize?

Oppression. Signup and view all the answers

What is represented by 'The Chair/Stool'?

High class or an exalted position. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Death' symbolize in Janie's life?

The end of phases and transitions to new ones. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'The Porch' represent?

The community. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Symbols in "Their Eyes Were Watching God"

The Horizon
- Symbolizes change and the potential for a better future.
- Represents the driving force for personal growth and aspiration.
The Road
- Acts as a bridge connecting Janie's current life to her envisioned future.
- Signifies the journey of life and the pursuit of happiness.
The Pear Tree
- Represents Janie's ideal relationship, characterized by passion without possession or dominance.
- Reflects an effortless union between individuals.
The Great Tree
- Symbolizes the richness of human experience and the diversity of life.
- Illustrates that varied life experiences contribute to personal growth.
Janie's Hair
- Embodies Janie's femininity and sexuality.
- Serves as a reflection of her empowerment and oppression linked to racial dynamics.
The Hurricane
- Represents the overwhelming power of nature and divinity over societal constructs.
- Emphasizes human identity beyond societal labels such as gender, race, and class.
The Mule
- Symbolizes the burden of oppression and cruelty, particularly for black women.
- Highlights the control exerted by men, paralleling Janie's experiences.
The Sun
- Marks the passage of time and signifies change.
- Reflects Janie's realization of potential and the importance of relationships for personal development.
The Head Rags
- Represent oppression and the constraints imposed by Jody on Janie's identity.
- Symbolize limitations on Janie's ability to embrace her femininity and self-worth.
The Chair/Stool
- Denotes class status and societal perceptions of happiness related to wealth.
- Illustrates Janie's understanding that true fulfillment is not tied to social standing.
Death
- Represents the end of certain life phases for Janie.
- Acts as a catalyst for transition and the emergence of new beginnings.
The Porch
- Functions as a gathering place representing the community.
- Reflects social interactions and relational dynamics within Janie's world.

Description

Explore the rich symbols and motifs in Zora Neale Hurston's 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'. This quiz focuses on key elements such as the horizon, the road, and the pear tree, illuminating their meanings and significance in Janie's journey. Enhance your understanding of how these symbols reflect her quest for fulfillment.