Purple Hibiscus Topic Sentences

Question 1

Papa’s Violence

Answer 1

1. Violence as a means of control
2. Violence due to religious beliefs
3. Violence as a warped expression of love

Question 2

Influences of Papa vs Aunty Ifeoma

Answer 2

1. Level of control (respecting personal liberties vs micromanaging)
2. Level of violence
3. Level of restriction on/respect towards freedom of speech

Question 3

Papa’s Public vs Private Sides

Answer 3

1. Caring vs cruel in role of father
2. Generous vs selfish in role of philanthropist
3. Attitude towards defiance

Question 4

Freedom

Answer 4

1. Freedom of expression
2. Freedom of speech
3. Freedom of choice (autonomy)

Question 5

Defiance

Answer 5

1. Jaja as a symbol of defiance
2. Kambili’s character arc shows that defiance is essential for personal growth
3. Papa’s suppression vs Aunty Ifeoma’s encouragement of defiance

Question 6

Silence (vs Laughter)

Answer 6

1. Silence as a method of control
2. Laughter sparks Kambili’s awakening
3. Desire for laughter as a microcosm for Kambili’s defiance

Question 7

Religion

Answer 7

1. Subversion of religious expectations
2. Contrasting interpretations of religion
3. Religion as a cause of societal divide (microcosm)

Question 8

Traditional Igbo Culture and Religion

Answer 8

1. Celebration of traditional culture and religion
2. Potential for Igbo culture and religion to coexist with Christianity and colonialist values
3. Contrasting views of traditional Igbo culture and religion within Nigerian society (tension between Papa vs Papa-Nnukwu microcosm)

Question 9

Political Turmoil

Answer 9

1. Rebellion of the Nigerian people showcases extent of political instability
2. Violence as a means of control for tyrannical government
3. Corruption increases economic disparity