THE CHATGPT WRITING ASSIGNMENT

THE PROMPT \\\ In 200 words or less, write a sophisticated, philosophical literature comparison essay analyzing “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston and “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine Hansberry and each respective work’s impact on American culture and society. Consider the individual themes and style of each work and how they speak to one another. (Prompt by Angelina P. ’24)

RESPONSE/// Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were

Watching God and Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun are two works of literature that both examine the experiences of African Americans in the United States, yet do so with distinct styles and themes. Hurston’s novel is a deeply personal exploration of self-discovery and empowerment, while Hansberry’s play explores the societal and systemic barriers that impede the progress of African Americans.

At its core, Their Eyes Were Watching God is a coming-of-age story that follows the journey of Janie Crawford as she navigates the social and cultural norms of a patriarchal society. Hurston’s style is characterized by its use of vernacular language and storytelling techniques that evoke the oral traditions of African American culture. Her work emphasizes the importance of personal agency and individualism in the face of societal expectations, making a powerful statement about the value of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s own happiness.

On the other hand, A Raisin in the Sun examines the impact of systemic racism and poverty on the lives of African Americans. Hansberry’s play is set in a crowded Chicago apartment where an African American family is struggling to make ends meet. The play addresses themes of racism, discrimination, and social mobility, highlighting the immense obstacles that the family faces. Through her writing, Hansberry emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity in overcoming these obstacles and striving towards a better future.

Despite their different styles and themes, both works have had a profound impact on American culture and society. Their Eyes Were Watching God paved the way for other writers to explore the experiences of African American women and has become a classic of African American literature. A Raisin in the Sun was one of the first plays to address the experiences of African Americans in the urban North and has become a classic of American theater. Both works continue to inspire and challenge readers to confront issues of race, gender, and social justice, speaking to one another through their shared goal of amplifying the voices and experiences of African Americans in the United States.