The Color Purple Lesson Plan

How does Celie's tone change after the scene with Shug in the restaurant?

Celie's tone is reminiscent of the beginning of the novel. She is solemn and despondent. The joy she had felt at discovering the house she inherited and the hope she had for the future is gone. Celie envisioned living with Nettie and her family as well as Shug. While with Shug, Celie had finally reached a place in her development where she could love another and receive that love in return. Shug has broken her heart, and this time she realizes she may never have Shug's complete attention and love. Encourage students to cite examples where Shug may have indicated her waning feelings for Celie. (For...