What Did Zora Neale Hurston Study at Columbia University?
Zora Neale Hurston, an iconic figure in African American literature and anthropology, made her mark at Columbia University where she pursued her studies in the field of anthropology. Enrolling in 1921, Hurston became one of the first African American women to earn a degree from Columbia, focusing particularly on folklore. Her keen interest in the cultural expressions and traditions of African Americans influenced much of her later work.
During her time at Columbia, Hurston studied under renowned anthropologist Franz Boas, who is often called the father of American anthropology. This was particularly significant for Hurston as Boas championed the idea that cultural differences did not stem from biological differences but rather from socio-cultural factors. Such teachings deeply resonated with Hurston and shaped her future research methodologies. She ventured into ethnographic studies, collecting oral histories and folklore from various African American communities, which she would later incorporate into her literary works.
One of her notable fieldwork projects involved interviews with Cudjo Lewis (or Kossula), the last surviving African slave brought to the U.S. His stories became an integral part of her anthropological work; they highlighted poignant aspects of the African American experience. Hurston’s exploration into folklore not only aimed at preserving a cultural heritage but also challenged prevailing misconceptions about African American culture during that era.
Conclusion
The studies Zora Neale Hurston undertook at Columbia University significantly contributed to her development as a writer and anthropologist. Her focus on folklore and culture paved the way for her acclaimed literary works, many of which have become essential readings in both American literature and cultural studies. By intertwining her anthropological findings with her writing, she created narratives that celebrated the richness of African American life.
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