Discussion Questions - Sabeana Uthayakumaran

The death of Celie’s mother had played an important role in the beginning of the novel. In what ways did the death affect Celie’s life and relationships?

The community had judged Shug quickly because of her illness. What would your reaction to Shug’s illness be? Would you agree with the community’s impression or Celie’s impression of Shug? Explain.

Celie was sexually abused by her father Alphonso, although was told to stay quiet. If Nettie had also been abused, do you believe Celie would have continued to be silent or fight back because of Nettie’s and Celie’s strong relationship?

Nettie and Shug were two important women in Celie’s life. How did they both influence her? Was Nettie replaced by Shug Avery in Celie’s life?

The novel was written in a first person narrative by Celie. Do you feel that Celie was a reliable or unreliable narrator? Explain.