Question

Along with contributing to her positive portrayal of the black race, what does Hurston’s use of the Big John de Conquer legend in the beginning of chapter 18 imply?

Answer 1

In southern black culture, folktale retellings were a source of comfort.

Answer 2

Hi. although you did not present the paragraph to which the question refers, due to the historical context, we can consider that in addition to representing a positive portrait of the black race, popular tales served as a source of comfort for the black population of the south.

Step-by-step explanation:

Big John de Conquer is a folkloric character, popular among the African American population during the times of slavery in the south. The legend presents a black hero who served as an inspiration to the slaves, as he represented someone they could identify with in a positive and admirable way. The presence of this hero and other legends adapted to black culture, gave hope and comfort to the slaves, in addition to showing them someone they could look up to.