Thesis
In the short story “Sweat,” Hurston brings up the theme of racism and sexism, which is central to the story. The main character, Delia Jones, lives in Florida and works as a washerwoman. She gets up early on Monday morning to finish her work before Saturday. But on Sunday night, while she was sorting dirty laundry, her husband, Sykes, decided to play a joke on her by throwing a whip at her, which reminded her of a snake. This episode shows their relationship, where Sykes is disrespectful and cruel to Delia.
Details and Examples
During the argument between Delia and Sykes, he threatens to throw the laundry outside and beat her up. But Delia does not give up and defends her right to her home and job. She says that everything that happens will return to Sykes by claiming, “Gawd knows it’s a sin” (Hurston & Wall, 1997, para. 7). This shows her strength and determination to fight for herself.
In the story “Sweat”, Hurston vividly shows the problems of racism and sexism that the main characters face. As an African American woman, Delia must work hard to support herself and her husband. Meanwhile, Sykes does not appreciate her efforts and humiliates her by saying, “You sho is one aggravatin’ nigger woman!” (Hurston & Wall, 1997, para. 8). The short story shows that even within a family, racism and sexism can have a devastating effect on relationships.
This story is an important example of literature that raises current social issues. Hurston uses vivid imagery and dialogue to draw the reader’s attention to the problems that many people face. He shows how racism and sexism can destroy families and relationships between people. In the following paragraphs of the story “Sweat,” Hurston explores the theme of racism and sexism through further events and relationships of the main characters. The short story becomes increasingly intense and emotional, showing how these issues affect the lives of Delia and Sykes.
Reference
Hurston, Z. N. & Wall, C. A. (1997). Sweat. Rutgers University Press.