Joe isolated Janie from the community and never gave her an opinion on the matter (The concept of love and marriage in Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston). Joe physically abused Janie throughout their marriage, but also verbally abused her over time (The Concept of Love and Marriage in Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston). When Janie would speak out against Joe, it would be the most important first step in Janie's journey toward equality, voice, and freedom (Roberts and Kendall). Janie reports Joe in the store after being ridiculed for his appearance (The concept of love and marriage in Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston). When Janie fights Joe by finally using her voice, she destroys his self-image and power (Major Character Analysis). Joe abuses Janie for this vocal outburst in front of community members