Janie's Three Marriages in Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God"

Marriage is a complex institution that has been explored in countless literary works. In Zora Neale Hurston's novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God," the protagonist, Janie Crawford, experiences three distinct marriages that shape her understanding of love, self-identity, and independence. Each marriage presents Janie with unique challenges and opportunities for growth. This essay will analyze Janie's three marriages, focusing on her decision to marry Logan Killicks. By examining the reasons behind Janie's choice, we can gain insight into her character and the societal expectations that influenced her decisions.

Janie's first marriage to Logan Killicks is crucial in understanding her journey towards self-discovery. When Janie initially marries Logan, she is driven by societal pressures and the desire for stability. Logan is a well-respected member of their community and offers Janie a secure future. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that Janie's decision to marry Logan was not solely based on love.

Throughout the novel, Janie's relationship with Logan is depicted as unfulfilling and oppressive. She feels trapped in a loveless marriage and longs for something more. This dissatisfaction is further highlighted when Janie meets Joe Starks, her second husband. Despite the challenges she faces in her marriage to Logan, Janie's decision to marry him was not without reason.

One keyword that appears a few times in the text is "why did Janie marry Logan Killicks?" This question prompts us to delve deeper into Janie's motivations and the societal expectations placed upon her. Janie's marriage to Logan can be understood as a reflection of the limited options available to women in the early 20th century.

During this time, women often relied on marriage as a means of financial security and social status. Janie, being a young and impressionable woman, succumbs to these societal pressures. She believes that marrying Logan will provide her with a stable and respectable life, even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.

Additionally, Janie's marriage to Logan can be seen as a reflection of her desire for independence. Despite the lack of love and fulfillment in her relationship with Logan, Janie makes a conscious choice to marry him. This decision can be interpreted as an act of rebellion against her grandmother, Nanny, who arranges the marriage. By entering into this marriage, Janie asserts her autonomy and attempts to forge her own path.

Furthermore, Janie's decision to marry Logan can be seen as a result of her own naivety and lack of life experience. At the beginning of the novel, Janie is portrayed as an innocent and idealistic young woman. She believes that marriage will bring her the happiness and fulfillment she desires. However, as she quickly discovers, marriage is far more complex and challenging than she initially imagined.

In conclusion, Janie's decision to marry Logan Killicks is driven by a combination of societal pressures, her desire for independence, and her naivety. By examining Janie's motivations, we gain a deeper understanding of her character and the societal expectations that influenced her choices. Janie's three marriages in "Their Eyes Were Watching God" provide a lens through which we can explore the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations. Through her journey, Janie ultimately learns to prioritize her own happiness and define her own path, challenging the conventional notions of marriage and womanhood.