English Language and Literature ETDs

Publication Date

7-15-1975

Abstract

Zora Neale Hurston (1903-1960) was a black woman who rose from relative obscurity to become a noted novelist, folklorist, and anthropologist. Because more and more critics passed over her works for the more militant ones of "race conscious" black writers, however, Hurston was relatively ignored and neglected. While most other black writers were writing protest literature, Hurston was writing about individuals and the positive side of black folk life. Although she does not totally ignore racial issues, they are never major themes in her writings. Rather, most of her works speak for the affirmative side of life, for the fulfillment of body and soul, for true love and happiness. Because Hurston's themes differ drastically from those of most other black writers, and because she wrote during the same general period as the powerful and militant Richard Wright, she and her works have been overshadowed and relatively ignored. Those few critics who have discussed Hurston either never examined all her works or never considered any of them extensively. In view of such omissions, this study examines critically and extensively each of Hurston's works--her five short stories, four novels, two books of folklore, and her autobiography. The dissertation consists of nine chapters. In the Introduction, the background for the ensuing chapters is set, and a statement of the major problem is given. Chapter II discusses Hurston's early works, while Chapters III-VI discuss her novels; Chapter VII is devoted to non-fiction, while Chapter VIII discusses Hurston's striking style. The Conclusion, Chapter IX, discusses Hurston's place in the literary world and makes an argument for greater critical interest. Hurston is a writer deserving of sustained attention. Her themes are universal and can thus offer something valuable to every reader. Hurston was allowed to sink into oblivion because she dared to be different. Now it is time to give adequate attention to this accomplished novelist who was caught in the dilemma of the non-revolutionary black artist.

Degree Name

English

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

English

First Committee Member (Chair)

Robert E. Fleming

Second Committee Member

James Francis Barbour

Third Committee Member

Hoyt Trowbridge

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

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