1. Langston Hughes: He is considered one of the most important figures of the Harlem Renaissance. His poetry, short stories, and plays often explored themes of Black identity, urban life, and the African diaspora. His works, like "The Weary Blues" and "I, Too, Sing America," captured the spirit of the movement and resonated with a wide audience.
2. Zora Neale Hurston: A novelist, folklorist, and anthropologist, Hurston's work challenged the prevailing narratives about Black life. Her novels, such as "Their Eyes Were Watching God," explored the strength and resilience of Black women, often through the lens of Southern folklore and oral traditions. Her unique voice and perspective, combined with her anthropological research, offered a powerful counterpoint to the more urban-focused writings of the time.
These two authors, along with many others, helped define the Harlem Renaissance and left a lasting legacy on American literature.