Symbolism

Symbols in Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

1.       Trees/roots/branches- people’s lives, African American people had little to no roots

2.       Pear tree- blossoming womanhood, desire for love

3.       Mule-black women doing all the worst jobs

4.       The lamp post- light and hope for the new town of Eatonville(progress)

5.       The general store- represents progress in Eatonville because the black people in town have their own store  and it was run by black people, it was also the center meeting spot

6.       Janie’s long, straight hair- how Janie is different, her bi-racial roots, her freedom as a woman

7.       A dog- represents how not to treat a lady

8.       Horizon- represents new dream/wishes out on the horizon; new beginning

9.       The gate- opening to a new possibility down the “road”

10.   Janie’s head rag- shows Joe’s control, similar to slavery

11.   Vultures-like the people, head vulture is like Joe
12. Checkers- equality with Tea Cake
13. Guitar- playful, relaxed side of Tea Cake
14. Overalls- represents the working class
15. Hurricane- represent God's power
16. Seeds- represent Tea Cake and regrowth

This is an image of a lamp post.

http://wsquaredscrapbooking.com/item_5211/Wooden-Flourish--Twin-Lamp-Post.htm