Who is the main character in "Their Eyes Were Watching God" and what is her primary struggle?

The main character in "Their Eyes Were Watching God" is Janie Crawford, and her primary struggle revolves around seeking her independence and self-identity. Throughout the novel, Janie embarks on a profound journey to find her voice and assert her autonomy in a world that often seeks to define her based on societal expectations and the men in her life.

Janie's relationships with her three husbands—Logan Killicks, Joe Starks, and Tea Cake—each represent different aspects of her struggle for self-discovery. With Logan, she experiences a lack of emotional connection; with Joe, she faces oppression and control that stifles her individuality; and with Tea Cake, she finally discovers a relationship based on mutual respect, love, and companionship.

This quest for independence is a central theme of the novel, as Janie's experiences lead her to understand who she is outside of her roles as a wife or daughter. Ultimately, her journey reflects the universal human desire for self-actualization and the challenges that accompany it, making her quest not just personal but also emblematic of broader themes regarding race, gender, and empowerment.