What Is Hurston's Portrayal Of Women In Their Eyes Were Watching God

In post-Reconstruction society, women, especially women of color, were seen as subordinate, further perpetuated by a misogynic and patriarchal society. Hurston’s novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, eloquently captures this attitude by drawing a parallel between the treatment of black women and mules. Nanny, Janie’s grandmother, during a discord of marriage with Janie, stated that “de nigger women is du mule uh de world,” as a testament to her subdued perception on the subjects of marriage, race, and gender roles resulting from her background in slavery. The mule served as a symbol of abuse, and oppression, even though being a vital backbone to society, completing monotonous, and labor intensive work. Likewise, black women were treated with
condescending demeanors while providing much needed domestic and other chores alike in conjunction with childbearing responsibilities. Moreover, this juxtaposition of mules and black women, reflects the deplorable treatment of both groups—providing necessary exertion, but faced with adversities. Janie however, instead of living a life of oppression, discovers solace through her marital journey and recognizes that she can live on her own accord, without a man.