Sweat by Zora Neale Hurston

One of their neighbors recounts how the abuse began only a month into their marriage. She began to scream because she thought it was a snake. To women of our time she could be considered a hero because she did not kill her husband, or fool because she did not leave him; but for women of her time that was expected. Sykes found satisfaction in her hysteria. That night Delia confronts Sykes and both of them confess their hatred for each other.

The second marital conflict is Sykes’ blatant affair.

Through this play, Hurston tries to exhibit the plight of post-slavery African American families. He is constantly telling Delia that she is too thin and his mistress is fatter, making her superior to Delia. She also states that if she does not start her work on Sunday she will be behind on Monday. elia responds to this by reminding him that her work paid for their home and put food in their mouths. Sykes wastes no time in embarrassing Delia in front of all their neighbors. Sykes no longer finds Delia attractive and seeks comfort and affection from another woman. On the Sunday he found her sorting laundry, Sykes ran his whip over Delia’s shoulder. He makes it very clear that he has no problem spending Delia’s hard earned money on his newfound love.