Three Plays: Lawing and Jawing; Forty Yards; Woofing

By Zora Neale Hurston

Zora Neale Hurston's 'Three Plays' is a collection of three uniquely crafted plays that bring to life the struggles and triumphs of African American characters in the early 20th century. Through dynamic dialogue and vivid scenes, Hurston explores themes of race, identity, and community, offering a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the time. Her literary style is characterized by a rich use of language and a deep understanding of the human experience, making each play a compelling read for those interested in African American literature. Set against the backdrop of the Harlem Renaissance, these plays showcase Hurston's ability to capture the complex realities of African American life. Zora Neale Hurston, a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, drew on her own experiences as a black woman in America to create works that reflect the social and cultural challenges of the era. Her keen observations and sharp wit are evident in her writing, making her an influential voice in African American literature. Hurston's dedication to capturing the essence of African American life shines through in 'Three Plays,' solidifying her place as a literary powerhouse. I recommend 'Three Plays' to readers interested in exploring the dynamic and nuanced world of African American theater. Hurston's unique perspective and unparalleled storytelling make this collection a worthwhile read for those looking to delve into the complexities of race and identity in America.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sharp Ink
• Release date: Apr 12, 2024
• ISBN: 9788028365394

Zora Neale Hurston

Zora Neale Hurston was a novelist, folklorist, and anthropologist. She wrote four novels (Jonah’s Gourd Vine, 1934; Their Eyes Were Watching God, 1937; Moses, Man of the Mountains, 1939; and Seraph on the Suwanee, 1948); two books of folklore (Mules and Men, 1935, and Every Tongue Got to Confess, 2001); a work of anthropological research, (Tell My Horse, 1938); an autobiography (Dust Tracks on a Road, 1942); an international bestselling nonfiction work (Barracoon: The Story of the Last “Black Cargo,” 2018); and over fifty short stories, essays, and plays. She attended Howard University, Barnard College, and Columbia University and was a graduate of Barnard College in 1928. She was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama, and grew up in Eatonville, Florida.

Book preview

Zora Neale Hurston

Three Plays

Lawing and Jawing; Forty Yards; Woofing

Sharp Ink Publishing

2024

Contact: [e-mail]

ISBN 9788028365394

Table of Contents

LAWING AND JAWING

FORTY YARDS

FORTY YARDS

WOOFING

LAWING AND JAWING

Table of Contents

by Zora *[Handwritten: (Neale)] Hurston

TIME: Present

PLACE: Way cross Georgia

SCENE: Judge Dunfumy's Court.

PERSONS: Judge Dunfumy, Officer Simpson and another, Jemima

Flapcakes, Cliff Mullins, John Barnes, two lawyers,

a clerk, a pretty girl and her escort.

SETTING: Usual court-room arrangement, except that there is a

large red arrow pointing off-stage left, marked

To Jail.

ACTION: At rise everybody is in place except the Judge. Suddenly the CLERK looks off-stage right and motions for everybody to rise. Enter the JUDGE. He wears a black cap and gown and has his gavel in his hand. The two POLICEMEN walk behind him holding up his gown. He mounts the bench and glares all about him before he seats himself. There is a PRETTY GIRL in the front row left, and he takes a good look at her, smiles, frowns at her escort. He motions the police to leave him and take their places with the spectators and he then raps vigorously with his gavel for order.

JUDGE

Hear! Hear! Court is set! My honor is on de bench. You moufy folks set

up!

(He glares at the boy with the pretty