English 102 (Final)
Length: (4-5 pages)
“Sweat’
Zora Neale Hurston
Assignment: Having read the short story “Sweat” by Zora Neale Hurston, it is clear that Delia
murders her husband Syke; however, it may be interpreted that this is not premediated murder
(murder in the first degree) or justifiable homicide? For this essay, take a stance and write a 4-5
page essay that includes a minimum of two short quotes per body paragraph and answers the
following:
1. If Delia were to be arrested for the “murder” of her husband Sykes, and you were ( an
attorney who could choose whether to defend or prosecute her, would you take the side of
the defense or prosecutor?
2. As her attorney (defense), what evidence would you use to convince the jury and judge of
her innocence? As the prosecutor, what evidence would you use to convince the jury and
judge of her guilt?
3. Which members of the community might you use in arguing your case? What are their
words and/or actions that might support your case?
4. What is your own response to Hurston’s short story?
