De Turkey and De Law: A Comedy in Three Acts

Zora Neale Hurston

May 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

Zora Neale Hurston's 'De Turkey and De Law' is a flavorful collection of folklore tales that showcases Hurston's mastery in capturing the essence of African American culture in the early 20th century. Through vivid storytelling and dialect, Hurston paints a vibrant picture of everyday life and challenges faced by the characters in each tale. The book is a testament to Hurston's anthropological background, as she delves deep into the customs, beliefs, and struggles of the people she portrays, giving readers a glimpse into a world rich with tradition and history. 'De Turkey and De Law' is not only a work of fiction but also a valuable literary document that sheds light on the oral traditions of the African American community during this time period. Hurston's unique narrative style draws readers in and immerses them in a world where storytelling is a way of life. Her stories are both entertaining and insightful, offering a window into a culture that is often underrepresented in mainstream literature. Readers interested in folklore, African American literature, or anthropology will find 'De Turkey and De Law' a compelling read that brings to life a vibrant and oft-overlooked aspect of American history.

About the author

Zora Neale Hurston (1891 – 1960) was a distinguished African-American writer, anthropologist, and a titan of the Harlem Renaissance. Her work in literature is expansive, blending her deep interest in racial struggles, folk traditions, and cultural anthropology. Born in Notasulga, Alabama, and raised in Eatonville, Florida, the first incorporated black town in the United States, Hurston's unique experience greatly influenced her literary voice and subject matter. Her classical book 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' (1937) is often celebrated for its strong narrative and profound thematic engagement with the plight of African-American women. Hurston was also known for her plays, and 'De Turkey and De Law', a folklore-inspired story written in 1930, showcased her adept ability to weave African-American oral traditions into her art. While her work was underappreciated during her lifetime, later literary scholars have recognized Hurston's significant contributions to American literature. Her writing is characterized by its luminous dialogue, rich description, and an unflinching exploration of the human condition. Unfortunately, Hurston died in relative obscurity, but her legacy has since been revived and her works are now widely studied for their historical context, linguistic innovation, and profound storytelling. Her ethnographic research and preservation of African-American folklore have cemented her place as an eminent figure in the humanities.