TEWWG - Chapter 4

How does Hurston use Joe Starks to develop the theme of self-determination?

• Joe is determined to have a baby with Janie.

• Joe is motivated to be a farmer and he is determined to have Janie help him like the wife before her used to.

• Joe is motivated by ambition to be accomplished, even dressing the part of what he thought an important man would wear, instead of farmer or work clothes. He has a vision for what he wants to be true and moves to an all-Black town to realize his dream.

• Joe is determined to buy Mr. Killucks land.

What evidence does NOT support your response that Joe Starks' character was centered around a theme of self-determination?

• • “But when he heard all about ‘em makin’ a town all outa of colored folks, he knowed dat was de place he wanted to be.” (28)

• “He had always wanted a big voice, but de white folks had all de sayso…everywhere else, exceptin’ dis place dat colored folks was buildin’ theirselves.” (28)

• • “He meant to git dere whilst de town wuz yet a baby. He meant to buy in big. It had always been his wish and desire to be a big voice and he had lived nearly thirty years to find a chance.” (28)

• “He wants things sweet wid his marriage lak when you sit under a pear tree and think. Ah…” (29)

Look at the language Joe uses to characterize Janie. What does this suggest about how he views her?

• • He views her like a little girl or a child in need of protection. 

  • He sees her as a beauty who should be waited on and spoiled

• He views her like a grown woman and wants to spoil her.

• He views her as equal to himself and feels like she needs to earn her respect.

• He views her like a motherly figure and wants to make sure she is respected by men and women.

Which evidence supports how Joe views Janie?

• • “A pretty doll-baby lak you is made to sit on de porch and rock and fan yo’self and eat p’taters dat other folks plant just special for you.” (29)

• • “Well, who’s lookin after a grown woman lak you?” (28)

• “Ah betch you wears a crown on yo' head” (28)

• • “You come heah wid you’ mouf full uh foolishness.” (29)

How are gender norms affecting Janie and Logan Killicks' marriage?

• Logan doesn't expect Janie to do any work.

• Logan expects Janie to work to help him and appreciate the things that he has done for her.

• Logan expects Janie to do all the work while he does nothing.

• Logan expects Janie to be like Nanny.