"Their Eyes Were Watching God" is a novel by Zora Neale Hurston that tells the story of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century American South, as she embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The novel opens with Janie returning to her hometown of Eatonville, Florida, after being away, facing gossip and judgment from the townspeople. Through a recounting to her friend Pheoby, Janie shares the story of her life which is marked by three significant marriages. Janie's grandmother raises her with the hope of financial security and social standing, arranging Janie's first marriage to Logan Killicks, a wealthy but emotionally unfulfilling man. She later leaves Logan for Joe "Jody" Starks, an ambitious man who becomes the mayor of Eatonville. This marriage brings Janie some status but confines her under Jody's control until his death. Finally, Janie marries Vergible "Tea Cake" Woods, with whom she experiences true companionship and love. Their relationship allows Janie to find her voice and live more freely, although it ends tragically. The novel addresses major themes such as the search for identity, gender roles, autonomy, and the complexities of love and freedom within the African American experience during that time. It is celebrated as a seminal work in American literature for its rich depiction of black womanhood and its unique narrative style incorporating African American dialect and culture.