'Their Eyes Were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston - Discussion Questions

Their Eyes Were Watching God is a sensual novel about an African-American woman in rural Florida that was first published in 1937. While it is an important telling of the black experience, it is also a story of love and strength with a voice that will draw you in and hook you. Use these book club discussion questions on Their Eyes Were Watching God to lead your reading group into Hurston's novel.

Spoiler Warning: These book club discussion questions reveal important details about Their Eyes Were Watching God. Finish the book before reading on.

1. How important is the use of vernacular dialect to Their Eyes Were Watching God? What does it add to the story?

2. How do the characters view God?

3. What do Janie's journeys around Florida reveal about her character and black culture during this period?

4. What are the differences between the language the men use and the way the women speak? What does this reveal about their beliefs and worldviews?

5. Discuss the sensual imagery in the novel and Janie's maturation in the areas of love and sex.

6. What were some of your favorite passages?

7. Rate Their Eyes Were Watching God on a scale of 1 to 5.