Final answer:
The bloom came off Janie and Joe's marriage in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' due to Joe's controlling and abusive behavior, which stripped away the mutual respect and love in their relationship, leading Janie to a path of self-discovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Their Eyes Were Watching God, the bloom came off Janie and Joe's marriage due to Joe's increasingly controlling and abusive behavior. The progression of their relationship reveals that Joe's treatment of Janie, including silencing her and asserting his dominance, erodes the love and equality that a healthy marriage requires. This dynamic shift reflects the broader theme of self-actualization and liberation central to Zora Neale Hurston's work, as Janie's eventual rebellion against Joe's oppression marks a crucial step in her journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.