Zora Neale Hurston was an amazing author and anthropologist. She played a big role in shaping African American literature. Hurston is best known for her book, Their Eyes Were Watching God, written in 1937. In her work, she brought to life the beauty of Black culture, history, and dialect.
Even though she faced many struggles as a Black woman writer in the early 1900s, Hurston left a strong mark on literature and culture. Today, she is seen as a key figure in African American storytelling and a major player in the Harlem Renaissance.
This biography looks at Zora Neale Hurston’s life, her writing, and her lasting impact.
Early Life and Education
Born in the Heart of Black America
Zora Neale Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama. But she grew up in Eatonville, Florida—one of the first all-Black towns in the U.S.
Living in Eatonville shaped her life. She didn’t face the same racial issues many African Americans did. Instead, she saw Black success and leadership, which influenced her stories.
A Passion for Learning
Hurston loved storytelling from a young age. She listened to folktales from her community, which made her writing special.
Even with money troubles and personal challenges, she worked hard for her education:
- She attended Morgan Academy in Baltimore—a school for Black students
- She studied at Howard University, one of the tops historically Black colleges.
- She earned a degree in Anthropology from Barnard College. She was the first Black woman to graduate there. She learned from the famous anthropologist, Franz Boas.
Her studies helped her combine research with storytelling, creating a rich view of Black culture.
Literary Career and Major Works
Becoming a Voice of the Harlem Renaissance
In the 1920s, Hurston moved to New York City. There, she became an important figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a movement that celebrated Black art, music, and writing.
She worked with writers like Langston Hughes and Claude McKay. But unlike many of them, she didn’t focus on racism. Instead, she wrote about:
- The beauty of Black life and culture.
- Folklore, humour, and Southern traditions
- Strong Black female protagonists
This different viewpoint made her a groundbreaking voice in African American literature.
Their Eyes Were Watching God (1937): A Literary Masterpiece
Hurston’s most famous book is Their Eyes Were Watching God. It tells the story of Janie Crawford, a Black woman on a path to self-discovery and independence.
Hurston’s most famous novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, tells the story of Janie Crawford, a Black woman on a journey of self-discovery, love, and independence.
The book covers themes like:
- Female empowerment
- Love and relationships
- Freedom and personal growth
- The power of storytelling
At first, it didn’t get much attention. Later, thanks to writers like Alice Walker, it became recognized as one of the greatest American novels.
Other Notable Works
- Jonah’s Gourd Vine (1934) – A novel about a Black preacher’s life.
- Mules and Men (1935) – A collection of African-American folklore gathered during Hurston’s anthropological research.
- Tell My Horse (1938) – An exploration of voodoo and culture in the Caribbean.
- Dust Tracks on a Road (1942) – Hurston’s autobiography.
Anthropology and Folklore: Documenting Black Culture
Hurston wasn’t just a novelist; she was also a groundbreaking anthropologist. She travelled through the South, the Caribbean, and Haiti, documenting:
- African-American folklore and traditions
- Hoodoo and voodoo practices
- Oral storytelling and spiritual beliefs
She helped preserve many Black traditions that could have vanished. By mixing research with storytelling, she made learning fun for everyone.
Challenges and Controversies
Criticism from the Black Literary Community
While she was famous in the Harlem Renaissance, she also faced criticism. Some Black thinkers, like Richard Wright, said she didn’t focus enough on racism and made Black life seem too rosy.
She refused to fit into what others expected, which made her less popular in both Black and white literary circles.
Financial and Personal Struggles
Despite her success, Hurston faced money problems. Later in life, she worked as a maid and died in poverty, with her grave unmarked. It wasn’t until the 1970s that Alice Walker helped honor her by marking her grave.
Legacy and Influence
Revival of Her Work
In the 1970s, people began to rediscover Hurston’s work, thanks to Alice Walker calling her the foremother of Black literature. This sparked new interest in her books, especially Their Eyes Were Watching God.
Impact on Literature and Feminism
Hurston’s portrayal of strong Black women influenced many writers, including:
- Toni Morrison
- Maya Angelou
- Alice Walker
Her unique writing style and focus on Black joy opened doors for modern African American literature.
Honouring Her Contributions
Today, Hurston is celebrated as one of America’s great writers. Her legacy lives on through:
- The Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities in Eatonville, Florida.
- The Hurston/Wright Foundation, which supports Black writers.
- Her books being taught in schools around the world.
Conclusion
Zora Neale Hurston was a brilliant writer and storyteller who brought Black culture to life in her work. Though she was overlooked in her time, she’s now celebrated as a pioneer of African American literature.
Through her novels and her work in anthropology, Hurston changed how we tell Black stories. Her bold and independent spirit continues to inspire new generations.
