The institution of marriage is turned upside down in "The Gilded Six-Bits," but not at first. In the beginning, Missie and Joe seem to have it all—a house, good food, a playful and easy way of interacting with one another. Things become a little off, though, when a newcomer, Slemmons, comes into town. He threatens to ruin everything. Missie sleeps with him in the hopes of getting money just when Joe's ready to start a family. Missie's idea of being a good wife is making her husband happy and she truly believes what he wants is money. Her infidelity tests their marriage, and Hurston tests readers by leading them to question how one must act in a marriage. When a problem arises, do you forgive and grow, or do you call it quits and split?
Questions About Marriage
- Why do you think Joe stays with Missie after she cheats on him?
- Is it partly Joe's fault that Missie gets with Slemmons? Why or why not?
- Do you think their marriage is stronger or weaker because of Missie's infidelity?
- Why do you think Hurston chose to have the woman and not the man be unfaithful in the marriage?
Chew on This
Infidelity brings Missie and Joe closer together and, ultimately, makes them happier.
Joe inadvertently encourages Missie to cheat on him with Slemmons.