Characters and Characterization - Joe (Ch 1-5)

Throughout these chapters Hurston introduces the character Joe as an interesting figure. Although by I assume Joe will likely be cast aside as Janie's first husband was, I still think he plays an important role in the story. While people have already spoken about how Joe Starks is power hungry and is characterized by his domineering personality, I think it is interesting to look at how Joe is characterized by his interactions with Janie. At first he uses his personality to flatter Janie, as seen when he claims "You ain't never knowed what it was to be treated lak a lady and Ah wants to be de one tuh show yuh" (29). This is similar to the way he later acts with the people of Eatonville as he tries to make a strong impression over them and gain control. I saw this as a salesman-like act, as Joe used his charisma to make Janie fall for him, while in the end all he really desired was to gain power for himself.

After this initial period of false selflessness however, Joe’s true ambitious character shows as he begins to use Janie as a prop and a worker. This is seen when he refuses to let her make a speech, claiming that “She’s uh woman and her place is in de home” (43). Clearly he has no respect for his wife or women in general here. Perhaps Hurston is using the restrictions he places on Janie as a feminist appeal to show the inequalities of society. The incident with the light also shows hoe Joe wants to be the center of attention, and enjoys any event that will help him gain the admiration of others. This is shown again later in the chapter when Janie mentions how Joe is so busy being mayor that they cannot properly develop their own relationship. In response Joe quiets her by saying his high status “makes a big woman outs [Janie]” (46). Clearly Joe sees Janie as nothing more than his own property. Following this Janie explains, “A feeling of coldness and fear took hold of her” (pg 46). Perhaps foreshadows of her growing urge to leave Joe. This would mean that Joe has been used by Hurston as an impetus for Janie to seek respect and individuality. That could turn out to be the ultimate function of his character.