The Color Purple is a novel that naturally encourages group discussion. Its unique structure, lacking an omniscient narrator, compels readers to fill in the narrative gaps themselves. In this way, reading the novel resembles the process of quilt making. Group discussions about the novel's story are likely to enhance each reader's individual experience.

This novel can be seen as a guide on how to build a sense of self from the lowest rungs of American society, starting without self-esteem or privileges. (Could a character have fewer advantages than being black, female, poor, and a lesbian?) By the end, Celie becomes financially independent, psychologically healthy, and a fully realized individual. The significance and feasibility of Walker's vision certainly merit discussion.

There are few, if any, other works of literature that gather so many strong female characters in one story. It's as if Walker aimed to present a variety of powerful role models for women. The individual responses of these strong characters to the patriarchal domination they face should spark discussions on suitable reactions to violence and oppression.

Discussion groups will inevitably address the gender conflict that takes center stage in the novel. Walker presents strong views and makes a compelling case for them. The black American male characters seem driven by a need to dominate the women around them, feeling that their world is only right when they are in control. Through Nettie's letters, we see that African men appear similar, as do white men. Nettie writes, for instance, "I think Africans are very much like White people back home." A starting question might be: if the novel is used as a lens to view society, does it offer a clear and accurate perspective?

1. In what ways are traditional gender roles reversed in The Color Purple?

2. Although love triangles usually cause problems in most novels, that doesn't seem to be the case here. How are love triangles portrayed differently in this novel?

3. Albert appears to despise Celie as his wife from the beginning. Is his sexism the only reason for this?

4. What is the significance of quilt making in the story?

5. Why does Celie advise Harpo to beat Sofia?

6. This novel explores male/female relationships, but Nettie's letters discuss African and black American relationships. How do these relationships conflict with each other?

7. Sofia and Tashi are two women from different continents and cultures. How are their fates similar?

8. What enables Albert to change?

9. Each central female character in the novel is a fighter. How does each one fight differently from the others?

10. Celie struggles throughout the novel to form her concept of God. How does her understanding of God evolve?

11. What makes Shug a role model for Celie?

12. What is the significance of the title, The Color Purple?