| Author | Year | Language | Pages |
| Zora Neale Hurston | 1937 | English | 281 |
Their Eyes Were Watching God, written by Zora Neale Hurston and first published in 1937, is a seminal work in African American literature. The novel tells the story of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century, as she embarks on self-discovery and personal empowerment. Through her relationships and experiences, Janie explores themes of love, independence, and identity.
Key Themes and Plot
The novel is set in the American South and follows Janie’s teenage years through adulthood. Raised by her grandmother, Janie is initially married off to a man much older than her, but she soon realizes that this marriage lacks love and fulfillment. Her quest for true love and happiness leads her through two more marriages, each representing different aspects of life and love.
Janie’s third marriage to Tea Cake, a younger and more vibrant man, becomes the central relationship in the novel. Through Tea Cake, Janie experiences love joy, and tragedy, ultimately leading her to a deeper understanding of herself and her place in the world. The title reflects the characters’ search for spiritual and emotional fulfillment, especially when facing challenges.
