The Foundation of the story
When a novel is adapted to film, there will inevitably be changes to the story. Despite the esthetic considerations made in the film version of Alice Walker's novel, The Color Purple, the story is essentially the same.

The Color Purple centers on the difficult life a young woman name Celie during the early 20th century. Raped and consequently impregnated by her "daddy," Celie's children are given away and she is married off to a certain Mr. ______.

Since Mr. ______ never wanted Celie to begin with (he wanted her younger sister Nettie), he abuses her physically and emotionally throughout their marriage. Because of this destructive relationship, Celie and Nettie are separated, but not before Nettie teaches Celie how to read and write.

After the separation of the two sisters, Celie spends her days taking care of Mr. ______'s children while waiting for a letter from Nettie. Over the years, Celie learns of a woman named Shug Avery, with whom Mr. ______ has always been in love with. Celie eventually meets Shug, and the two woman develop a strong bond.

As the years pass, Celie continues to wonder why her younger sister hasn't written her. One day, Shug discovers a letter from Nettie which reveals that she has been writing Celie for many years. Upon realizing that Mr. ______ must have kept these letters from Celie, her and Shug search the house until they discover the many letters that Mr. ______ has hidden. With the help of Shug, Celie finds the strength to leave Mr. _______, although her grace allows her to forgive him.

At the end of the story, Nettie, who has been in Africa, returns to the United States along with Celie's children whom she raised. The family is finally reunited - and we assume - live happily ever after.


Return Home

By Alison Isaac