IndexIntroductionThe symbolism of Beatrice figurinesSymbolic role of hibiscusConclusionReferencesIntroductionGrowing up in a country plagued by the harsh reality of domestic violence, expressing one's true thoughts can often lead to brutal consequences. “Purple Hibiscus,” written by Chimamanda Adichie, is a powerful example of this truth. In a society and family ruled by Eugene, a male authoritarian figure, the voice of the Achike family remains stifled. As a result, their emotions and character development find expression through objects and the natural world around them. Within the narrative, figurines and hibiscus flowers emerge as enigmatic symbols, offering deeper insights into hidden emotions and unpredictable changes in character, enriching our understanding of the novel's underlying themes. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayThe Symbolism of Beatrice FigurinesThe unfolding events in the story shed light on the symbolic meaning of Mother's (Beatrice's) beloved figurines, which serve as a reflection of her delicate struggle against her husband, Eugene. Beatrice's emotional attachment to these figurines becomes evident when Eugene shatters them at the beginning of the book, prompting her to shed tears. It is at this moment that Kambili realizes that "things began to fall apart in the house when her brother, Jaja, did not go to communion and Dad threw his heavy missal across the room and broke the figurines on the étagère... Mother's eyes filled with water as the shattered pieces of the figurines fell to the floor." The fragility of the figurine's glass serves as a stark contrast to the heavy missal, which symbolizes Eugene himself. This symbolism highlights the link between the figurines and the mother's gentle attempts to cope with her husband's violent nature. Interestingly, Beatrice seeks comfort in the figurines whenever she endures Eugene's abuse, as if she finds comfort in their fragility, which mirrors her own vulnerability. Furthermore, his extraordinary attachment to the figurines becomes evident when he lingers over the shattered pieces, holding them in his hands. As Beatrice sits silently, clutching the broken figurine, Kambili reflects, "I wanted to say, 'I'm sorry your figurines broke, Mom,' but instead the words that came out were, 'I'm sorry Daddy broke . your stickers." She nodded quickly, then shook her head to show that the stickers didn't matter. Years ago, before I understood, I wondered why she polished them every time... I went to see her standing next to the étagère with a soaked cloth of soap and water. Spent at least a quarter of an hour on each ballet statuette." Beatrice's extraordinary care for these figurines serves as a reflection of her heart and the self-compassion to which she aspires. When Eugenio shatters the figurines, he simultaneously shatters Beatrice's heart through his violent and negligent actions. Furthermore, Beatrice's transformation becomes evident through her decision not to replace the broken sculptures, signifying that change is on the horizon. It is after her refusal that Kambili begins to understand, "maybe Mom understood that she would no longer need the figurines; that when Dad threw the missal at Jaja, it wasn't just the figurines that fell, but everything." he only realized now, things were about to change." The irreparable damage inflicted on the figurines from the missal serves as a metaphor for the extent of his mother's suffering caused by Eugene's brutality. Her decision not toReplacing the sculptures means not only the loss of his most cherished possessions, but also a departure from his usual calm demeanor. The figurines symbolize that meaningful actions can accelerate profound transformations, and Beatrice evolves into a new character with her decision not to replace them. In essence, the figurines serve as a symbol representing Beatrice's hidden emotions and the dramatic change in her character as she grapples with the brutality of her ferocious husband. Symbolic Role of Hibiscus The use of hibiscus serves as a symbolic representation of the various stages of Jaja's life as he undergoes a transformation from a life darkened by violence and oppression to becoming an independent individual in his fight for freedom. The vibrant hues of the hibiscus found in Jaja's residence mirror his oppressive existence under Eugene's rule. Even with the introduction of serene purple hibiscus into their garden, Jaja acknowledges that while "the purple plants had started to come up, most of the flowers were still on the red ones. They seemed to bloom so fast, these red hibiscus." In Jaja's house, the cultivation of purple hibiscus is an anomaly, since the red ones predominate in the garden. The vivid red color symbolizes the pain and anger that permeates Jaja's life, with the rapid flowering of the red hibiscus signifying Eugene's dominance. Furthermore, Jaja's newfound courage in defying his father can be traced back to his first encounter with the purple hibiscus, which serves as a catalyst in his journey to independence. After Jaja's refusal to take part in the communion, Kambili recognizes that "Nsukka started it all... Jaja's challenge seemed to me now like Auntie Ifeoma's experimental purple hibiscus: rare, scented with the shades of freedom that was about to blossom." Jaja's bold act reflects his growing maturity, with his rebellion symbolizing his newfound courage. The parallel between Jaja's transformation and purple hibiscus is drawn because of their rarity and association with freedom. The budding purple hibiscus mirrors Jaja's emerging freedom as he begins to question Eugene's authority and engage in acts of defiance. Additionally, the correlation between Jaja's character evolution and the blooming of purple hibiscus becomes more pronounced as Jaja continues to disobey Eugene's orders, establishing himself as a maverick within the narrative. As Jaja goes from simply refusing communion to courageously slamming doors in Eugene's face and courageously declining dinner invitations, Kambili observes that, "the purple hibiscus are beginning to bloom and change color... I could see the sleepy buds, of oval shape in the backyard as they swayed in the evening breeze free from any constraints... .just as we were too." Jaja's search for autonomy aligns with the growth of purple hibiscus in their garden. The transformation of the hibiscuses into a shade of purple symbolizes the changes within Jaja as he evolves into a fearless character who challenges Eugene's authority. Just as the purple hibiscus sway freely in their unrestricted environment, they serve as a symbol of Jaja, who has fully blossomed as an individual free from Eugene's tyranny. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion In Chimamanda Adichie's novel, "Purple Hibiscus," the clever use of symbolism through figurines and hibiscus deepens the understanding of the family's emotions and unexpected character development, which would otherwise remain hidden under Eugene's oppressive rule . While i., 37(1), 205-217.