Q: As the novel progresses, we see Janie become more immersed in black culture. (From her childhood, Eatonville, and the Everglades) Early on, we learn that Janie did not know she was a black girl until the age of 6 due to being surrounded by white people her entire life. With the absence of her biological parents and the presence of Nanny, how do these experiences in her childhood shape the way her identity evolves as she becomes older?

Q: In the novel, speech is used to show control. What are the major differences between the speech we see from the men in the novel versus Janie and other women characters? Are there any examples that come to mind?

Q: How do you think the quote, “They seemed to be staring at the dark, but their eyes were watching God.” and the journey of Janie’s independence are intertwined?

Q: How important was the author’s use of southern dialect to your understanding of the text? Did it help you understand the community and their way of life? Did you find it unnecessary and distracting?

Q: In the Perusall reading, we learned about Zora Hurston’s contribution to acceptance of Aftrican American’s in society. Where did you see this reflected in the novel? Are there specific scenes that you found noteworthy?