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