The Characters of the Color Purple - A Breakdown
Celie
The protagonist of The Color Purple is Celie. Celie is a struggling young woman living in the American South in the early 20th century. She is the victim of abuse at the hands of her father and later her husband, and she is also subjected to racism and sexism. Celie is a strong and resilient character, however, and she eventually finds her voice and learns to stand up for herself.
Shug Avery
Shug Avery is an independent and strong-willed woman who serves as Celie's mentor and confidant. Shug is a jazz singer who is living with her husband, but she also has a relationship with Celie's husband. Shug helps Celie to find her voice and encourages her to stand up for herself. Shug is a key figure in Celie's journey to self-discovery and empowerment.
Albert
Albert is Celie's husband and the father of her two children. He is an abusive and controlling man who subjects Celie to physical and verbal abuse. Despite his shortcomings, Albert does eventually show some remorse for the way he has treated Celie, and he helps her to find her voice and stand up for herself. Albert also serves as a foil to Shug, and is a key figure in Celie's journey of self-discovery.
Nettie
Nettie is Celie's sister and the only other person who truly understands Celie. Nettie is a strong and independent woman who is living in Africa with her missionary husband and their two adopted children. Nettie serves as a source of strength and support for Celie and is a key figure in Celie's journey of self-discovery.
Harpo
Harpo is Albert's son from a previous marriage. He is a kind and gentle man who is devoted to his wife, Sofia. Harpo serves as a foil to his father, and he helps Celie to stand up for herself. Harpo is an important figure in Celie's journey of self-discovery and empowerment.