Tea Cake tragically died at the end of the story due to complications from rabies after being attacked by a rabid dog during a hurricane.
The Events Leading to Tea Cake's Death
Tea Cake and Janie had found a life together, living off the land and seemingly free from previous conflicts. However, their peaceful existence was abruptly shattered by a series of unfortunate events:
- The Hurricane: A powerful hurricane struck, disrupting their lives and the surrounding environment.
- Rabid Dog Attack: During the chaos of the storm, Tea Cake was attacked by a rabid dog.
- Contraction of Rabies: Although he managed to fight off the animal, the dog inflicted a bite that infected him with rabies.
The Progression of His Illness
After the dog attack, Tea Cake's health rapidly deteriorated. The rabies virus, left untreated, began to take its toll on him. He was never the same after the incident, exhibiting signs of the disease that grew progressively worse. The illness ultimately led to his death.
