The Symbolism of Purple in Alice Walker's 'The Color Purple'

Alice Walker's The Color Purple is a powerful novel that explores the struggles and triumphs of Celie Johnson, an African American woman living in the South during the early 20th century. One of the most striking symbols in Walker's work is the color purple, which carries profound symbolism representing victory over adverse circumstances, self-worth, and empowerment. In this article, we will delve into the role of purple in the narrative and its thematic significance.

Understanding the Color Purple

The color purple is a rich and vibrant hue, often associated with royalty, nobility, and spiritual enlightenment. Throughout history, purple has been a color that speaks of power, luxury, and elevated status. In The Color Purple, the choice of purple as a symbol is particularly poignant.

Alice Walker uses the color purple to highlight moments of triumph and self-realization. It is not just a color but a representation of the journey from darkness to light, from oppression to empowerment, and from silence to voice. By selecting purple, Walker emphasizes the strength and resilience of her protagonist, Celie, and her ultimate victory over the adversities she faced.

Symbolism in The Color Purple

The color purple is first introduced through Celie's friend, Shug. In Chapter 10, Celie refers to the color of Shug's clothing with such delight: "Shug was wearing a blue and purple lace dress of incredible beauty. The folded edges of the lace were fringed, and there was a fluffy piece of lace hanging like a veil around her neck." This description sets the stage for the color's later significance in the story.

Shug plays a crucial role in Celie's transformation, both personally and spiritually. Her introduction is marked by the purple dress, which becomes a symbol of her confidence and self-worth. As Celie begins to see herself and her own worth, the color purple becomes a beacon of hope and empowerment.

By the end of the novel, the color purple takes on a more explicit form. When Celie and Sofia discover the love letters hidden under the floorboards, they wear purple clothing as a symbol of their newfound freedom and self-worth. Celie's decision to wear purple, as she is reimagining the letters, signifies her triumph over her past and her regaining of her voice and identity.

The Psychological and Symbolic Impact of Purple

The use of purple in The Color Purple extends beyond mere aesthetics. It is deeply rooted in the psychological and symbolic aspects of the narrative. Purple can evoke feelings of royalty, power, and spiritual transcendence. In the context of Celie's journey, the act of reclaiming the purple dress and the color itself represents her journey from a victim of abuse and oppression to a confident and self-assured woman.

Psychologically, the color purple can also evoke a sense of tranquility and balance. This resonates with Celie's personal growth and her ability to find peace within herself. The shift from a color associated with oppression to one of empowerment reflects the transformation Celie undergoes throughout the novel.

Conclusion

Alice Walker's choice of the color purple in The Color Purple is not arbitrary but deeply symbolic. It represents Celie's triumph over adversity, her journey to self-realization, and her ultimate victory over personal and social oppression. The color purple serves as both a physical and psychological reminder of the strength and resilience required to overcome one's circumstances. Through the color purple, Walker not only tells a powerful story but also emphasizes the universal human struggle for dignity and self-worth.