Sweat by Zora Neale Hurston

A detailed Summary of Sweat by Zora Neale Hurston


The play "Sweat" is based on an excerpt from a story written by Zora Neale Hurston. The play takes place in Florida during the 1920's. In the play, Hurston explores many issues facing black families at that time. The main character Delia faces numerous conflicts imposed upon her by her husband. The most dominant conflicts in the play are Delia and Sykes' marital issues.

The first marital conflict presented to the audience is Sykes's disapproval of Delia bringing her work into their home. Sykes becomes angry when he comes home and sees Delia sorting her employers' laundry. His reaction is to verbally abuse Delia and remind her that he does not want white people's laundry in their home. Sykes also attacks Delia's religious convictions by reminding her that it is the Sabbath and she should not be working on such a holy day. D


The second marital conflict is Sykes' blatant affair. Sykes no longer finds Delia attractive and seeks comfort and affection from another woman. He is constantly telling Delia that she is too thin and his mistress is fatter, making her superior to Delia. One afternoon as Delia is returning from her employer's home, she sees Sykes and his mistress at the general store. Sykes wastes no time in embarrassing Delia in front of all their neighbors. He makes it very clear that he has no problem spending Delia's hard earned money on his newfound love. That night Delia confronts Sykes and both of them confess their hatred for each other.

Through this play, Hurston tries to exhibit the plight of post-slavery African American families. Both Delia and Sykes are affected by the roles imposed upon them by society, which takes a toll on their ma

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 566
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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