Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Why do you think Delia stays with Sykes after he has been so abusive towards her?
- What is the significance of Delia being a washwoman? Why, of all professions, might Hurston have chosen this one?
- Do you think Delia is a meek or strong character? Why or why not?
- Are there any redeeming qualities about Sykes?
- How does Delia's faith help her through the hardships in her life? Would she have survived without her religion?
- How do the village men on Joe Clarke's porch add to the story? What does their dialogue and comments say about them? About society in general?
- Why is the setting of Florida important to the story?
- What is your opinion on the dialect found in "Sweat"? Is it distracting? Rich culturally? Awfully confusing?