ABSTRACT
This paper first explores the differences between Feminism and Womanism, and points out the uniqueness of Womanism to the liberation of black women. It then compares Celie with Sofia, analysing their similarities and differences, to present the qualities reflected by Celie and Sofia jointly and respectively as well as their limitations. It finally discusses the strong points showed by other women figures in the novel and makes a supplementary, concluding a complete womanist image at the end of it. A concrete image of womanism provides an easier way to understand the themes the author wants to convey in the novels and gives a broader but more pointed perspective to study the black literature.
Keywords：The Color Purple; Celie; Sofia; Womansim
Contents
1. Introduction 1
2. Feminism and womanism 3
2.1 The origin of womanism 3
2.2 Differences between feminism and womanism 3
3. Womanist traits shared by Celie and Sofia 5
3.1 Struggle with oppression 5
3.1.1 Fight against the black men 5
3.1.2 Fight against the white 6
3.2 Solidarity among black women 7
3.2.1 The quilt 7
3.2.2 The increasing confidence 8
3.3 Hope rested on unity 8
3.3.1 Motherhood 8
3.3.2 Independence 9
3.3.3 Harmony 9
3.4 The essence of womanism reflected by Celie and Sofia 10
4. The merits and limitations reflected by Celie and Sofia respectively 11
4.1 The fine part reflected by Celie and Sofia respectively 11
4.1.1 Celie——from obedient to independent 11
4.1.2 Sofia——from impulsive to mature 12
4.1.3 Conclusions 12
4.2 The limitations of Celie and Sofia 13
4.2.1 Celie——The ingrained image of God 13
4.2.2 Sofia——impatient and impulsive 14
4.2.3 Conclusions 14
5. Other qualities of a womanist image in The Color Purple 15
5.1 Shug Avery 15
5.2Nettie 15
5.3 Mary Agnes 15
5.4 Other strong points remain to explore 16
5.5 Conclusions 17
6. Conclusions 18
Acknowledgements 19
References 20
