Question

What metaphors does Zora Neale Hurston utilize in "Sweat" to enhance the story? Similes?

a) Birds and bees
b) Rivers and mountains
c) Snakes and ladders
d) Rainbows and clouds

Answer 1

In 'Sweat' by Zora Neale Hurston, the metaphor of sweat highlights the protagonist's hard work and symbolizes her challenging life, while the rattlesnake metaphorically represents her venomous husband. Similes are also used to vividly depict character traits and the discord in the protagonist's marriage.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Zora Neale Hurston's short story “Sweat”, various metaphors and similes are used to enhance the narrative and immerse readers into the story. Among the metaphors used, one of the most prominent is the comparison of the protagonist, Delia Jones, to a laboring animal through her constant work and “sweat.” This metaphor is significant as it not only illustrates Delia's hard labor but also symbolizes the struggle and toil of her life, especially within her abusive marriage. This physical 'sweat' ultimately leads to an emotional 'sweat' from Sykes as the dynamics of power shift by the end of the story, portraying a theme of self-liberation. Additionally, Hurston employs the image of the rattlesnake, which Sykes brings into their home to scare Delia. This snake serves as a metaphor for Sykes himself—venomous and deadly—whose presence in Delia's life is akin to a lurking danger. The story also features similes, such as comparing Sykes's laughter to the sound of a rusty saw, which vividly convey his harshness and the discord in their marriage.

Answer 2

Zora Neale Hurston employs the metaphor of snakes and ladders in "Sweat" to enhance the story.Thus correct option is c) Snakes and ladders

Explanation:

In "Sweat," Hurston masterfully employs the metaphor of snakes and ladders to convey the characters' struggles and triumphs. The metaphor of snakes represents the obstacles and challenges that the protagonist, Delia, faces in her life, symbolizing the venomous nature of her abusive husband, Sykes. Ladders, on the other hand, signify Delia's moments of progress and empowerment, illustrating her resilience and eventual ascent from the oppressive circumstances. Hurston uses this metaphor to vividly depict the fluctuating dynamics within the narrative, creating a powerful visual representation of the characters' journeys.

The snakes and ladders metaphor is deeply ingrained in the narrative, emphasizing the cyclical nature of Delia's experiences. The presence of snakes represents the constant threat and turmoil in her life, while the occasional appearance of ladders signifies fleeting moments of hope and advancement. This metaphor allows Hurston to intricately weave the themes of struggle, perseverance, and eventual liberation throughout the story, adding depth and symbolism to Delia's journey. Through this metaphorical framework, Hurston crafts a compelling narrative that resonates with readers, capturing the complexities of human existence and the resilience required to navigate through adversity.

By employing the snakes and ladders metaphor, Hurston effectively communicates the nuances of Delia's journey, offering readers a poignant exploration of triumph over adversity. This metaphor serves as a powerful tool in illustrating the protagonist's resilience and eventual triumph, allowing readers to connect deeply with the themes of struggle and empowerment portrayed in "Sweat." The interplay between the symbolism of snakes and ladders enriches the storytelling, amplifying the emotional impact and contributing to the story's enduring resonance.

Thus correct option is c) Snakes and ladders