The Color Purple

Who is the author of this particular novel?

Alice Walker

What is the significance of the character role Nettie?

Celie's sister who takes time out to write letters to Celie assuring her that every thing will be okay and constantly helping her through her struggles. She acts like a protective figure to Celie.

Who is the protagonist of the this particular novel?

Cellie

What is the concluding symbol for Celie's independence from racism, sexual abuse, discrimination, etc.?

Creating a pant-making business. Women were traditionally seen as wearing skirts, and pants created a dominant, independent feel for Celie.

What is the genre of this particular novel?

Epistolary Novel

What are the three major settings in this particular novel?

Georgia (Early 1900's), Africa (Onika), and Tennessee (Memphis, Sugar Avery Drive)

How is the story told?

In the form of diary entries

What is the significance of the ending scene in this particular novel?

In this scene, the protagonist becomes independent and sets herself from the hardships of physical abuse, discrimination against race and sexuality, etc.

What is the significance of the opening scene in this particular novel?

In this scene, the themes of racism, sexual discrimination and feminism are approached. The scene beings with "him" killing Celie's fetus child by physical abuse, stereotypes of being slut shamed by her own mother accusing her for sleeping around with men, etc.

Who are the vampire(s) in this particular novel?

Pa is the vampire because he stole his daughter's virginity and disrespected her body by physically abusing her to get rid of the baby. Mr. ______ abuses Celie as a husband.

What is the protagonist's quest?

Self Discovery

What are three major symbols in this particular novel?

The Color Purple, God, Pants

What particular message does the protagonist share with the audience?

The hope for future feminism

What is the significance of the quote, "tempted by some devil in the forest," (pg.2)

The quote is significant to Celie confusing her father with God. Her father had taken the baby of out Celie, creating an environment where masculinity overpowers her, to the point here she believes it to be a higher power such as God.

What is the significance of the quote, "and then I future this was the lesson I was supposed to learn," (pg. 283)

The quote is significant to Celie's constant discrimination and vulnerability to her husband, Mr. ________. She establishes happiness and independence from her abusive husband at the end of the novel.

What is the significance of the quote, " Dear God," (pg.1)

The quote is significant to Celie's view of God in all aspects of the environment. All of her letters start of with recognition to higher power. Without her faith, she would not be able to overcome her obstacles.

What is the significance of the quote, "or will years of child bearing and abuse...have destroyed it?" (pg. 257)

The quote is significant to Nettie speaking on behalf of Mr. ____ and Celie's relationship and how it's destroying her as a person. The strong bond between Celie and Nettie allow Celie to remain sane from this harsh torment.

What is the significance of the quote, " He start to choke me...feel sick every time I be the one to cook." (pg. 11)

The quote is significant to the disruption of gender roles and how after being physically abused, Celie must cook in order to keep a balance on the house/maintain traditional gender roles.

What popular Greek myth is acknowledged in this particular novel?

"PURPLE IS THE COLOR OF THE GODS" "PURPLE IS A MARK OF DIGNITY"

What is the date of publication ?

1982

What is the significance of the character role Shug Avery?

Provides unconditional love in the form of a friend, mom and sister even though they are not related

What are the three major theme(s) of this particular novel?

Racism, Religion, Feminism

What is the significance of the setting "Memphis, Tennessee?"

This setting indicates the location of Shug Avery's home when Celie tried to get away from her abusive husband. As a place of refuge, Celie's pant making business booms and creates independent for herself

What is the significance of the setting "Africa (Onika)?"

This setting indicates where Celie's younger sister, Nettie, will live for the majority of separation between the two. Tashi is discovered, who is Adam's future wife/Olivia's best friend. They raise Cellie's children, reuniting with a loving family

What is the significance of the setting "Georgia (Early 1900s)?"

This setting indicates where most of Celie's life will take loaves and her character growing from harsh treatment along with seeking more to life than just lessons