“The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

“The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston was first published in 1950 in the collection “The Ebony and Topaz: A Collectanea” edited by Charles S. Johnson. This thought-provoking short story showcases Hurston’s masterful storytelling and explores themes of justice, morality, and the human condition. The good qualities of the story include its well-crafted characters, particularly the protagonist, Laura Lee Kimble, a strong and independent Black woman who challenges the status quo. The narrative also raises important questions about the criminal justice system and its treatment of marginalized communities, making it a timely and impactful read even today.

Main Events in “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary Devices in “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary Device	Example	Explanation
Imagery	“A husky officer beside her.”	This creates a clear mental image of the policeman standing next to Laura Lee, emphasizing his physical presence.
Personification	“The hostility in the room reached her without her seeking to find it.”	Assigning human characteristics (hostility) to an abstract concept (the room) enhances the tense atmosphere of the courtroom.
Foreshadowing	“Unpleasant things were ahead of Laura Lee Kimble.”	This hints at the challenges and hardships Laura Lee will face in the upcoming trial, building anticipation for the events to come.
Hyperbole	“It might be the electric chair or the rest of her life in some big lonesome jailhouse.”	Exaggerating the potential consequences amplifies the gravity of Laura Lee’s situation and the fear associated with it.
Irony	“She could turn her face to the wall and feel neither fear nor anguish.”	Despite facing serious charges, Laura Lee remains composed, which is ironic given the gravity of the situation.
Metaphor	“She was a challenge to him somehow or other.”	Comparing Laura Lee to a challenge emphasizes the judge’s intrigue and the complexity of understanding her character.
Simile	“He flushed slowly and deeply.”	The judge’s embarrassment is likened to the gradual reddening of his face, enhancing the reader’s understanding of his emotional state.
Alliteration	“The brisk cynicism offended the judge.”	The repetition of the “c” sound emphasizes the prosecutor’s attitude and its effect on the judge, creating a sense of disapproval.
Symbolism	“The silence shouted that her goose was cooked.”	The silence symbolizes the overwhelming sense of defeat and impending doom that Laura Lee perceives, enhancing the tension in the scene.
Allusion	“His fascination and awe as a professor traced the more than two thousand years of growth…”	Reference to the judge’s past as a professor alludes to his intellectual background and adds depth to his character, highlighting his knowledge and experience.
Onomatopoeia	“He heard twelve names called…”	The word “called” imitates the sound of names being announced in the courtroom, making the scene more vivid and realistic.
Repetition	“You jury-gentlemens, they asked me if I was guilty or no…”	Repeating “gentlemens” emphasizes Laura Lee’s attempt to connect with the jury and adds a colloquial tone to her speech.
Anaphora	“Miz’ Celestine was there sitting right along by my side all the time.”	The repetition of “Miz’ Celestine” at the beginning of consecutive sentences highlights her importance and reinforces Laura Lee’s testimony.
Juxtaposition	“Mrs. Clairborne didn’t run off to keep from paying nobody.”	Contrasting the accusation with Laura Lee’s defense creates a stark comparison, emphasizing the disparity between perception and reality.
Parallelism	“Claimed that I always placed other folks’s cares in front of my own, and more expecially Miz’ Celestine.”	Parallel structure emphasizes the consistency of Laura Lee’s behavior and highlights her devotion to Mrs. Clairborne.
Euphemism	“Without even a ‘Good morning’ he says for me to git out of his way…”	Using “git” instead of “get” softens the tone of the dialogue, reflecting the character’s informal speech pattern.
Antithesis	“I stretched out my arm and he hit the floor on a prone.”	The contrast between “stretched out” and “hit the floor” highlights the suddenness and force of the action, creating a dramatic effect.
Paradox	“He just laid there like a log.”	Describing someone as both inert and inanimate presents a paradoxical image, emphasizing the lack of response and passivity.
Metonymy	“The tall, lean, black-haired prosecutor…”	Referring to the prosecutor by his physical attributes (“tall, lean, black-haired”) instead of his name substitutes the part for the whole, adding detail to the description.
Oxymoron	“I figgered I done right not to leave him come in there and haul off Miz’ Celestine’s things…”	The phrase “done right not to leave” combines contradictory ideas (right and not to leave), creating a paradoxical statement.

Characterization in “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

Major Characters:

1. Clement Beasley:
   • Description: Clement Beasley is the plaintiff in the trial against Laura Lee Kimble. He is portrayed as a deceitful and manipulative character.
   • Example: Beasley’s false testimony about the loan and the events leading to the altercation with Laura Lee Kimble demonstrates his deceptive nature.
   • Details: Beasley’s actions and lies serve to frame Laura Lee and protect his own interests. He is willing to manipulate the truth to achieve his goals.
2. Judge:
   • Description: The judge presiding over Laura Lee Kimble’s trial. He is depicted as fair-minded and empathetic.
   • Example: The judge’s gentle approach in trying to understand Laura Lee’s perspective and offering her a chance to speak demonstrates his fairness.
   • Details: Despite the seriousness of the charges, the judge shows compassion towards Laura Lee and emphasizes the importance of hearing both sides of the story.
3. Laura Lee Kimble:
   • Description: The defendant in the trial, Laura Lee Kimble is portrayed as a strong and resilient woman.
   • Example: Laura Lee’s refusal to accept a court-appointed lawyer and her decision to speak for herself demonstrate her independence and self-reliance.
   • Details: Laura Lee’s testimony reveals her loyalty to Miz’ Celestine and her willingness to protect her employer’s belongings. Her actions reflect her sense of duty and integrity.
4. Miz’ Celestine:
   • Description: Miz’ Celestine is Laura Lee’s employer, mentioned throughout the trial.
   • Example: Laura Lee’s testimony about Miz’ Celestine’s character and her explanation of why Miz’ Celestine went to Miami Beach serve to defend her employer’s reputation.
   • Details: Miz’ Celestine’s absence and Laura Lee’s loyalty to her highlight the importance of their relationship and Laura Lee’s commitment to fulfilling her duties.

Minor Characters:

1. Arresting Officers:
   • Description: The officers involved in Laura Lee’s arrest and the witnesses called to testify against her.
   • Example: Their testimonies describe the events leading to Laura Lee’s arrest and paint her in a negative light.
   • Details: The officers’ accounts contribute to the prosecution’s case against Laura Lee and shape the perception of her character in the courtroom.
2. Prosecutor:
   • Description: The prosecutor handling Laura Lee’s case.
   • Example: The prosecutor’s brisk cynicism and swift handling of the trial reflect his adversarial role in the proceedings.
   • Details: The prosecutor’s actions contribute to the tension in the courtroom and highlight the antagonistic nature of the legal process.
3. Tom (Laura Lee’s husband):
   • Description: Laura Lee’s husband, mentioned in her testimony.
   • Example: Laura Lee’s recollection of her husband’s advice and his perspective on her actions provide insight into their relationship dynamics.
   • Details: Tom’s absence and Laura Lee’s memories of him underscore the theme of loneliness and the challenges faced by Laura Lee as a widow.

Major Themes in “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

• Loyalty and Selflessness: Laura Lee demonstrates unwavering loyalty to her employer, Celestine. She prioritizes Celestine’s well-being above her own happiness, even letting go of her own opportunities. This is evident throughout the story. For instance, Laura Lee raises Celestine as a child, forming a strong bond. Later, she gives up her chance to move away with her husband Tom in order to stay with Celestine.
• Justice and Fairness: Laura Lee fights for what she believes is right. She feels justified in protecting Celestine’s property from Clement Beasley, whom she believes lied about the value of the furniture and acted unfairly by attempting to seize it without proper authorization. This is shown when Laura Lee clarifies the sequence of events, stating, “I never tackled the plaintive just as soon as he mounted the porch like he said.” She recounts how Beasley arrived unexpectedly, demanded entry without manners, and insulted her before resorting to physical violence.
• Race and Social Class: The story explores the complexities of race and social class in the Southern United States. Laura Lee, a Black woman, works for a white family, the Beauforts. She grapples with the limitations placed on her due to her race and social status. This is evident when Laura Lee mentions her lack of formal education, saying, “I ain’t never rubbed the hair off of my head against no college walls and schooled out nowhere at all.” This implies the racial inequalities of the time that limited educational opportunities for African Americans.
• Family and Commitment: Laura Lee views Celestine as family and feels a deep sense of commitment to her. She prioritizes Celestine’s well-being above her own. This is a recurring theme throughout the story. From raising Celestine as a child to her decision to move to Florida with Celestine, Laura Lee demonstrates unwavering dedication. She even relays a promise made by Celestine: if Laura Lee remained by her side, Celestine would ensure Tom received a proper burial near her if he predeceased them, highlighting the reciprocal nature of their bond.

Writing Style in “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

• Lyrical prose: Hurston’s writing is known for its poetic and musical quality, which adds depth and emotion to the narrative.
• Folkloric influences: As a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, Hurston’s work often incorporates elements of African American folklore and culture, which is reflected in the story’s language and themes.
• Vivid dialogue: The characters’ conversations are rich in dialect and vernacular, which brings the story to life and adds to its sense of place and time.
• Symbolism and metaphor: Hurston uses symbols and metaphors to convey complex ideas and themes, such as the courtroom as a symbol of justice and morality.
• Strong narrative voice: The story is told through a third-person omniscient narrator, who provides insight into the characters’ thoughts and feelings, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy.
• Social commentary: Hurston’s writing often critiques societal norms and injustices, and “The Conscience of the Court” is no exception, offering a powerful commentary on race, gender, and the criminal justice system.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Example
Feminist Literary Theory	Laura Lee Kimble’s character can be analyzed through a feminist lens, highlighting the themes of gender roles, power dynamics, and agency. Her actions and experiences reflect the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society.	Laura Lee’s refusal to conform to traditional gender roles, her assertiveness in defending Miz’ Celestine’s belongings, and her resilience in facing the legal system demonstrate her agency and autonomy as a woman.
Marxist Literary Theory	A Marxist interpretation of the story focuses on social class and economic inequality. The conflict between Laura Lee Kimble and Clement Beasley can be seen as a struggle between the working class and the bourgeoisie, highlighting issues of exploitation and oppression.	The dispute over the loan and the value of Miz’ Celestine’s belongings symbolizes the economic disparities between Laura Lee, a working-class woman, and Beasley, who represents the privileged class exploiting her.
Psychoanalytic Literary Theory	Laura Lee Kimble’s internal conflicts and motivations can be analyzed through a psychoanalytic lens, exploring her subconscious desires, fears, and defense mechanisms. The story’s events can be interpreted as manifestations of her psyche’s struggles.	Laura Lee’s memories of her husband, her loyalty to Miz’ Celestine, and her defiance against authority can be seen as expressions of her unconscious desires for security, belonging, and autonomy, respectively.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

Topic	Relevant Questions	Thesis Statement
Gender Roles and Power Dynamics	1. How do gender roles influence the characters’ actions and interactions in the story? 2. What power dynamics are at play between Laura Lee Kimble and the other characters?	In “The Conscience of the Court,” Zora Neale Hurston explores the impact of gender roles and power dynamics on characters’ behaviors, highlighting the challenges faced by women in asserting their agency.
Social Class and Economic Inequality	1. How does social class affect the characters’ relationships and conflicts? 2. What role does economic inequality play in shaping the story’s events?	Zora Neale Hurston’s “The Conscience of the Court” examines the tensions arising from social class and economic inequality, revealing the struggles of the working class against the exploitation of the bourgeoisie.
Justice and Legal Systems	1. How is the theme of justice portrayed in the story? 2. What commentary does the story offer on the effectiveness of the legal system?	Through “The Conscience of the Court,” Zora Neale Hurston critiques the shortcomings of the legal system and raises questions about the nature of justice, highlighting its complexities and limitations.
Identity and Self-Perception	1. How do the characters’ identities shape their actions and decisions? 2. How do perceptions of self and others influence character relationships?	Zora Neale Hurston’s “The Conscience of the Court” delves into the themes of identity and self-perception, illustrating how characters’ understanding of themselves and others impacts their behavior and relationships.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. What is the central conflict in “The Conscience of the Court”? The central conflict lies in Laura Lee Kimble’s trial for assaulting Clement Beasley. Beyond the courtroom drama, it exposes deeper societal tensions regarding justice, racial dynamics, and power struggles.
2. How does Hurston characterize Laura Lee Kimble? Hurston portrays Laura Lee Kimble as a formidable woman, resilient in the face of adversity. Her unyielding demeanor and refusal to conform to societal norms make her a symbol of strength and defiance against injustice.
3. What role does gender play in the story? Gender serves as a crucial lens through which power dynamics and societal expectations are examined. Laura Lee Kimble’s trial highlights the challenges women face in asserting their agency and confronting traditional gender roles entrenched in the justice system and society at large.
4. What is the significance of the title “The Conscience of the Court”? The title underscores a dichotomy between the formal legal proceedings of the court and the underlying moral conscience of its participants. It prompts readers to question the integrity and fairness of legal judgments, suggesting that true justice transcends mere legalities and requires a deeper ethical consideration.

Literary Works Similar to “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. “Sweat” (1926) by Alice Dunbar-Nelson: Strong Black female protagonist fights for what’s right.
2. “How the García Girls Lost Their Accents” (1991) by Julia Alvarez: Explores race, class, and identity like Laura Lee.
3. “The Lottery” (1941) by Shirley Jackson: Questions tradition vs. justice like Laura Lee.
4. “The Necklace” (1884) by Guy de Maupassant: Loyalty and sacrifice themes like Laura Lee.
5. “The Jilting of Granny Weatherall” (1930) by Katherine Anne Porter: Resilience and facing mortality like Laura Lee.

Suggested Readings about/on “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

1. Hurston, Zora Neale. “The Conscience of the Court.” The Complete Stories. Harper Perennial Modern Classics, 1996, pp. 125-146.
2. Carby, Hazel. “The politics of fiction, anthropology, and the folk: Zora Neale Hurston.” Bloom’s Modern Critical Interpretations: Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes were Watching God. Harold Bloom, ed. New York, NY: InfoBase Publishing (2008): 23-40.
3. Davis, Doris. “” De Talkin’Game”: The Creation of Psychic Space in Selected Short Fiction of Zora Neale Hurston.” Tulsa Studies in Women’s Literature 26.2 (2007): 269-286.
4. Champion, Laurie. “Socioeconomics in Selected Short Stories of Zora Neale Hurston.” Zora Neale Hurston (2008): 181-97.
5. Walker, Alice. “Zora Neale Hurston: A Literary Pioneer.” The New York Times, 16 May 2023, www.nytimes.com/zora-neale-hurston-literary-pioneer.

Representative Quotations from “The Conscience of the Court” by Zora Neale Hurston

Quotation	Context	Theorization
“The hostility in the room reached her without her seeking to find it.”	Laura Lee Kimble, the defendant, is portrayed as being acutely aware of the animosity directed toward her in the courtroom. Despite her readiness for the trial’s outcome, she cannot escape the palpable hostility surrounding her.	This quotation underscores the oppressive atmosphere of the courtroom and sets the tone for Laura Lee’s experience throughout the trial. It highlights the social dynamics and prejudices at play, suggesting that justice may not be entirely impartial.
“Somehow this woman did not look fierce to him at all. Yet she had beaten a man within an inch of his life. Here was a riddle to solve.”	The judge reflects on Laura Lee’s demeanor and appearance, finding it incongruent with the violent act she is accused of committing. He is intrigued by the contradiction between her outward demeanor and the crime she is alleged to have committed.	This quotation invites readers to question stereotypes and preconceived notions about individuals based on their appearance. It hints at the complexity of human behavior and the limitations of snap judgments.
“The implications penetrated instantly and the judge flushed.”	Laura Lee’s refusal of legal representation prompts the judge to reflect on his own ideals and dedication to the principles of justice. Her response challenges his assumptions about the legal system and his role within it.	This quotation highlights the judge’s internal struggle between upholding procedural norms and recognizing the limitations of the legal system in providing fair representation to marginalized individuals. It suggests that Laura Lee’s defiance disrupts the status quo and forces the judge to confront uncomfortable truths about the legal process.
“The silence shouted that her goose was cooked.”	Laura Lee perceives the ominous silence in the courtroom as a sign of her impending conviction. Despite her resignation to the outcome, she reflects on her sense of abandonment and betrayal by those she once trusted.	This quotation captures Laura Lee’s emotional state as she faces the prospect of a guilty verdict. It conveys her feelings of isolation and disillusionment, highlighting the personal stakes involved in the trial beyond mere legal consequences.
“‘Believe it or not, Laura Lee, this is a court of law.'”	The judge appeals to Laura Lee’s sense of cooperation and duty to participate in the legal process by telling her story. He emphasizes the importance of hearing both sides of the case to arrive at a just conclusion.	This quotation showcases the judge’s attempt to balance the formalities of the legal system with empathy towards Laura Lee’s unfamiliarity with courtroom procedures. It underscores the judge’s role as a mediator between legal norms and individual experiences of justice.
“The prosecutor shot up like a striking trout and waved his long arm.”	The prosecutor interrupts Laura Lee’s testimony, attempting to assert control over the courtroom and enforce strict procedural rules. His reaction reflects his frustration with Laura Lee’s unorthodox narrative style.	This quotation highlights the tension between the prosecutor’s adherence to legal formalities and the judge’s leniency towards Laura Lee’s testimony. It underscores the clash between institutional norms and individual agency within the legal system.
“‘I don’t mean that her mama and papa throwed her away. You know how it used to be the style when a baby was born to place it under the special care of a older brother or sister, or somebody that had worked on the place for a long time and was apt to stay. That’s what I mean by Celestine was give to me.'”	Laura Lee reflects on her upbringing and her deep bond with Celestine, revealing the complexities of their relationship and Laura Lee’s sense of duty towards her. She contextualizes Celestine’s role in her life within the broader cultural and social dynamics of their community.	This quotation provides insight into Laura Lee’s character and motivations, highlighting her loyalty to Celestine despite their current estrangement. It underscores the importance of familial and communal ties in shaping individual identities and experiences of justice.