Janie's Marriages in Their Eyes Were Watching God

Janie's journey through marriage in Zora Neale Hurston's novel Their Eyes Were Watching God showcases her growth and self-discovery. Through her three marriages, Janie evolves from a submissive and silenced woman to a liberated individual who embraces her own identity. This essay explores the significance of Janie's second husband, Joe Starks, in shaping her understanding of love, power dynamics, and independence. By examining the implications of their relationship, we gain insights into Janie's transformation and the broader themes of the novel.

Janie's marriage to Joe Starks marks a turning point in her life. Initially, Janie sees this union as an opportunity to escape her oppressive grandmother's control. However, as their relationship progresses, Janie realizes that Joe is merely replacing one form of subjugation with another. Hurston's use of vivid imagery and powerful dialogues illustrate the power dynamics within their marriage.

For instance, when Janie voices her desire to engage in the social life of Eatonville, Joe dismisses her aspirations, stating, "Somebody got to think for women and chillun and chickens and cows. I god, they sho don't think none theirselves" (Hurston, 39). This quote highlights Joe's belief in traditional gender roles and his desire to control Janie's actions. Janie's realization of her submissiveness within this marriage sparks her journey towards self-discovery.

Furthermore, Janie's marriage to Joe Starks also exposes the limitations of material wealth in achieving true happiness and fulfillment. As Joe becomes more successful and gains power as the mayor of Eatonville, he becomes increasingly obsessed with his public image. This obsession leads Joe to neglect Janie emotionally, leaving her feeling isolated and unfulfilled.

For instance, despite Joe's outward success, Janie realizes that their marriage lacks love and emotional connection. Hurston employs the motif of the mule to symbolize Janie's suppressed desires. When Janie reveals her longing for love to Joe, he responds by comparing her to a mule, stating, "You ain't got no particular place. It's wherever Ah need yuh" (Hurston, 77). This dehumanizing comparison highlights Joe's disregard for Janie's emotional needs and emphasizes the emptiness of their marriage.

However, Janie's marriage to Joe Starks also acts as a catalyst for her eventual liberation. As she endures Joe's oppressive rule, Janie begins to question societal expectations and her own identity. Through her observations of the town and her interactions with others, Janie realizes that she wants more than just material comfort and social status.

Janie's growing dissatisfaction with her marriage is evident when she tearfully confesses to her friend Pheoby, "Ah done lived Grandma's way, now Ah means tuh live mine" (Hurston, 87). This moment signifies Janie's determination to embrace her individuality and pursue her own dreams. Joe's death later in the novel further allows Janie to break free from the constraints of her marriage and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Janie's second marriage to Joe Starks plays a significant role in her evolution as a character. Through her experiences with Joe, Janie learns the importance of love, emotional fulfillment, and personal autonomy. Hurston's portrayal of their relationship exposes the power dynamics within marriages and highlights the potential for growth and transformation. By breaking free from Joe's control, Janie takes her first steps towards becoming an empowered woman who embraces her own desires and journeys towards self-discovery.

Janie's journey through marriage in Their Eyes Were Watching God offers a powerful exploration of the complexities of love, power, and self-realization. By delving into Janie's second marriage, we gain insights into the broader themes of the novel and the transformative power of personal growth. Hurston's portrayal of Janie's relationships serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of individual agency and the pursuit of one's true identity.