What do the mule references symbolize in 'Their Eyes Were Watching God'?

Question

Also, what do the horizons represent?

Answer 1

The mule serves to illustarte the strained relationship between janie and Joe Starks.  The figure of the mule can also refer not only to Janie herself but to any black woman struggling for independence.  Janie identifies with the mule, which remains stubbornly independent despite its masters efforts to beat it down.  Ironically, while Jody's position in the city gives him the power to free the mule, his pride and ambition cause him to virtually enslave his wife.  He can free Janie only by his death.