It's always amazing how much pain one human being is able to endure, and Delia Jones in "Sweat" is no exception. She runs her own household, works full time, feeds and clothes her husband, and deals with his daily verbal, mental, and physical abuse. How could anyone keep on with their lives given such dire circumstances? For Delia, it's all thanks to G-O-D. Delia's faith is a big part of her life, and Hurston's story is ripe with allusions to religious symbols, themes, and metaphors. In fact, the story itself could be seen as one big testament to the power of faith, as Sykes' sins catch up with him in the end while Delia's devotion brings her to a better place.
Questions About Religion
- How would the marriage of Sykes and Delia be considered in the church?
- Do you think Delia stays with Sykes out of a sense of religious duty?
- What comfort does Delia get from God? Mention quotes from the text.
- Is Delia's faith a help or an excuse for why she is still with Sykes?
Chew on This
Without faith in God, Delia would not have survived her marriage to Sykes.
Before breaking up with Sykes, Delia was not a true believer.