Journal #2: How does the setting affect the text?

The setting of the story is very significant for characterization and atmosphere. Janie's grandmother, having grown up a slave, had no hopes of having a better future. When she had another chance of raising a child, she wanted to make sure that Janie had as many opportunities as possible, and a respectable future. The setting was post-Civil War, at a time when African Americans were discriminated against and many were not given opportunities like an education. Having assumptions that a black girl will not amount to much is a very significant idea in this novel, and the idea is present because of the time period. Janie's grandmother put into Janie's head the idea that the only way to better herself would be to marry well. But Janie may never be able to find happiness, because she wants to marry someone she loves instead of a man that is in a relatively good position in society.