The Gilded Six Bits by Zora Neala Hurston

Full Answer Section Joe is furious when he learns of Missie May's infidelity. He accuses her of being a whore and threatens to leave her. Missie May is heartbroken, but she eventually realizes that she has made a mistake. She begs Joe for forgiveness, and he eventually relents. Body The story explores the themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness. It also examines the nature of appearances and the dangers of being taken in by them. The gilded six-bit piece is a symbol of both Missie May's infidelity and the false promise of the stranger. It is a reminder that appearances can be deceiving, and that true love is not always what it seems. Borrowed Material The story borrows from several traditional African-American folktales. For example, the character of the stranger is similar to the trickster figure found in many African-American stories. The stranger is a charismatic outsider who comes into the community and causes trouble. He is also a master of disguise, which allows him to deceive Missie May. Counter Argument Some critics have argued that the story is misogynistic. They point to the fact that Joe is initially more forgiving of the stranger than he is of Missie May. However, the story can also be interpreted as a feminist parable. Missie May is a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself. She is also a victim of the stranger's deception, which shows that even strong women can be vulnerable to manipulation. Conclusion The Gilded Six-Bits is a complex and multi-layered story that explores a variety of themes. It is a well-written and thought-provoking story that is sure to stay with readers long after they have finished reading it. Additional Thoughts The story is also notable for its use of dialect. Hurston was a gifted writer who was able to capture the rhythms and cadences of African-American speech. The use of dialect in the story helps to create a sense of authenticity and to give the reader a glimpse into the world of the characters. The Gilded Six-Bits is a classic of African-American literature. It is a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It is a story that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading it.

Sample Answer The Gilded Six-Bits is a short story by Zora Neale Hurston, first published in 1933. The story is set in Eatonville, Florida, a historically Black community, and tells the tale of a young couple, Joe and Missie May, whose marriage is tested when a charismatic stranger comes to town. Summary The story opens with Missie May cleaning her house in anticipation of her husband's return from work. She is excited to show him the new gilded six-bit piece that she has received from a mysterious stranger. Joe is initially skeptical of the coin, but Missie May insists that it is real. She tells him that the stranger gave it to her in exchange for her love.