Delia spends her days as a washerwoman, earning a living by supporting herself and her husband, Sykes. However, Sykes is not the loving partner one might expect; instead, he is verbally and physically abusive towards Delia. He cheats on her and is constantly trying to find ways to take her hard-earned money for himself. Her commitment to her job has become a means of achieving financial independence and removing herself from the burden of her relationship with her husband. Through Delia's story, Hurston takes us into the heart of the Jim Crow South, a time and place where racism and gender inequality were rampant. Delia's suffers from Sykes that reflect the broader historical trauma experienced by African American women during this era. The abuse she endures is emblematic of the systemic oppression faced by many African American women, including domestic violence, economic exploitation, and the denial of basic human rights. Hurston's narrative shines a light on the enduring effects of this historical trauma and the survival it takes to overcome such adversity. Delia's confrontation with the snake symbolizes the historical trauma experienced by African American women during the Jim Crow era. This scene shows how strong and determined Delia is, just like many African American women who faced tough times back then. The snake, like historical trauma, keeps coming back, affecting people and communities for …show more content…
Through the experiences of characters like Cora, Delia, and Lauren, we witness the profound impact of historical trauma, discrimination, and societal collapse on individuals and communities. Whether it's the loss of a child, enduring abuse and oppression, or navigating a dangerous and chaotic world, these stories highlight the resilience and strength of marginalized individuals in the face of overwhelming challenges. Despite the differences in setting and circumstances, the characters in these narratives share a common thread of perseverance and determination in their quest for survival and dignity. Through their struggles and triumphs, they remind us of the enduring power of the human spirit and the importance of empathy, resilience, and hope in times of