Adichie, Chimamanda Ngozi: *1977
Purple Hibiscus, 2003 - Week-by-Week Teaching Plan (5 weeks)
- Week 1 – Introduction & Contextual Background
Activities:
- Introduce the author and the novel's historical and cultural context.
- Discuss Nigeria's political landscape in the 1980s, including the military coups and the Biafran War.
- Explore the significance of the Igbo culture and Catholicism in the narrative.Readings:
- Chapters 1–3: Establishing the Achike family dynamics and their societal position.Discussion:
- Analyze the portrayal of Eugene's authoritarianism and its impact on the family.
- Reflect on the theme of silence and repression - Week 2 – Character Development & Themes of Control
Activities:
- Character mapping: Trace Kambili's development and her relationship with her father.
- Group discussions on the theme of control versus freedom.Readings:
- Chapters 4–6: Kambili and Jaja's experiences at Aunt Ifeoma's house.Discussion:
- Contrast the authoritarian household with the more liberal environment at Aunt Ifeoma's.
- Examine the role of education and exposure to different perspectives - Week 3 – Conflict & Political Allegory
Activities:
- Debate on the novel as a political allegory.
- Research and present on Nigerian politics during the 1980s.Readings:
- Chapters 7–9: The escalation of family tensions and external political unrest.Discussion:
- Analyze the symbolism of the purple hibiscus.
- Discuss the impact of political instability on personal lives - Week 4 – Climax & Resolution
Activities:
- Role-play key scenes to understand character motivations.
- Write journal entries from the perspective of different characters.Readings:
- Chapters 10–12: The family's confrontation and its aftermath.Discussion:
- Evaluate the choices made by Kambili and Jaja.
- Discuss the concept of forgiveness and healing - Week 5 – Reflection & Literary Analysis
Activities:
- Group presentations on major themes: Freedom, Silence, Family, and Political Allegory.
- Peer review of literary analysis essays.Readings:
- Final chapters: Resolution of the family's journey.Discussion:
- Reflect on the novel's ending and its implications.
- Connect the themes of the novel to contemporary issues