The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Celie’s struggle for identity

In The Color Purple by Alice Walker the struggle for identity is shaped at both the personal level, by individual preferences, and at a wider
level by social, cultural, historical and ethnic customs and expectations. Thus, for much of the novel, there is a struggle for Celie between
her desire to escape from Mr___ to Shug, and the expectation that she will obey the man she has been forced to marry.

A rejection of Racism 1. Politics, Religion – Views of Tasks

violence, so (both in race and pantheism vs marriage and
Celie must leave America religion Christianity (a the opportunity Working in pairs,
Mr __ to be to choose one’s discuss these four
and Africa) white male God)
happy, and own partner e.g. key areas of Celie’s
Sofia’s feelings Celie, Harpo, struggle for
for Harpo Sofia, Shug, and identity. Which do
change when he you think is most
Mr __.
important to her?
beats her.

Celie’s Find a quote from

the novel to support
4. Personal and struggle 2. Attitudes each example given.
cultural for towards gender
ambitions identity and sexuality Can you think of any
other ideas relating
to Celie’s sense of
Creativity e.g. identity? Make notes
sewing, quilting, on this sheet.
Sexuality e.g.
and singing Shug & Celie’s Now make a note
unconventional below of other
relationship and characters who
Financial independence e.g. 3. Social Education e.g. Nettie
social attitudes struggle for identity
Celie’s inheritance and business class, wealth teaches others to
towards female in this novel.
(Folkspants) bring her security. and status read and write.
sexuality.

© 2008 www.teachit.co.uk 10994 Page 1 of 1