Characters
Who is Janie's first husband in "Their Eyes Were Watching God"?
Logan Killicks
The horizon serves as a powerful motif. What does the horizon symbolize for Janie?
Janie's dreams and aspirations for a fulfilling life
Finish this quote: "Ships at a distance have every man’s wish on board. For some, they come in with the tide. For others, they ________."
"stand forever still"
What traumatic event occurs at the beginning of the novel that prompts Janie to share her life story?
Janie's husband, Tea Cake, has died, and she is being questioned by the townspeople and the porch sitters.
In the novel, what do the bees symbolize when Janie is sitting under the pear tree?
The bees symbolize the pollination of Janie's blossoming sexuality and the fulfillment of her desires.
What is the nickname given to Janie by her grandmother in the novel?
Alphabet
The pear tree is a recurring image in the novel. What does it represent in Janie's life?
Janie's idealized vision of love and fulfillment
In the novel, Janie says, "Two things everybody’s got tuh do fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about ________."
"livin' fuh theyselves"
During Janie's first marriage to Logan Killicks, what realization about love does she come to, leading her to leave him?
Janie realizes that love should not be a forced duty but a natural and mutual connection, prompting her to seek true love elsewhere.
What does the hurricane that strikes in the novel symbolize in Janie's journey?
The hurricane symbolizes chaos, change, and the uncontrollable forces of nature that disrupt Janie's life.
Janie's second husband, Joe Starks, holds a prominent position in the town. What title does he acquire, reflecting his leadership role?
Mayor
In the novel, the motif of the porch is significant. What does the porch symbolize in Janie's relationships?
The space where Janie observes and reflects on the dynamics of her marriages
Janie reflects on love, saying, "Love is lak the sea. It’s uh movin’ thing, but still and all, it takes its shape from the shore it meets, and it’s ________."
"different with every shore"
What significant position does Joe Starks attain in Eatonville, and how does this impact his relationship with Janie?
Joe becomes the mayor of Eatonville, and the power he attains leads to controlling and oppressive behavior in his marriage with Janie.
Janie frequently observes the horizon and the setting sun. What does the setting sun symbolize in the context of Janie's life and relationships?
The setting sun symbolizes the end of certain chapters in Janie's life, marking transitions and changes in her relationships and self-discovery.
What is the profession of Janie's third husband, Tea Cake, that takes them to the Everglades?
Gambler and part-time laborer
Hair is a recurring motif in the story, particularly in the context of Janie's identity. How does Janie's hair symbolize her sense of self?
Janie's defiance of societal norms and expectations, expressing her independence
"There are years that ask questions and years that answer." Who is the author of this quote in "Their Eyes Were Watching God"?
Zora Neale Hurston
In the "muck" of the Everglades, Janie and Tea Cake face a life-threatening natural disaster. What is the disaster, and how does it impact their relationship?
A hurricane strikes the Everglades, and Tea Cake and Janie struggle for survival. The shared experience strengthens their bond but also introduces tragedy.
Janie's hair becomes a powerful symbol throughout the novel. What does her hair represent when she wears it in a tight braid?
When Janie wears her hair in a tight braid, it symbolizes societal expectations and the constraints placed on her by others.
This character, a friend of Janie, is a source of support and understanding throughout the novel. Who is she?
Pheoby Watson
The motif of the horizon reappears at the end of the novel. What does the horizon symbolize in the final scenes?
The possibility of a future full of self-discovery and independence for Janie, even after Tea Cake's death
Complete this quote by Janie: "Ah was fumblin’ around and God opened de door. The rest wuz easy."
"And Janie hurried inside"
After Tea Cake's death, what controversial action does Janie take that results in her being judged by the community?
Janie is seen in town wearing overalls and with her hair down, defying societal expectations and facing gossip due to her unconventional appearance.
What is the significance of the mule in the novel, and how does it connect to Janie's journey?
The mule represents Janie's realization of the limitations and oppression imposed by society, pushing her towards a path of self-discovery.