Family Dynamics in 'Purple Hibiscus'

The narrator's father is described as having rashes all over his body, giving his skin a bloated appearance.

The narrator experiences a physical reaction to the soup, indicating illness or a change in health.

The narrator's mother used to braid her hair, but the process is now painful and stressful.

The narrator's mother refuses to replace the figurines, suggesting a realization or change in perception.

The narrator experiences a sense of confusion and realization about the significance of the father throwing the missal at Jaja.

The narrator's family's communication is described as being primarily non-verbal, through their spirits or emotions.

The narrator's family's communication style shifts after they moved to Nsukka, with Aunty Ifeoma's garden being a catalyst for change.

Aunty Ifeoma's garden symbolizes a change in the narrator's family's communication, moving from silence to expression.

The act of refusing to comply with a request or demand.

A type of hibiscus flower with a distinctive purple color and a strong fragrance.

A coup d'état is a sudden and illegal seizure of power from a government.

A state of being free to make choices and act independently.

A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the fetus is able to survive outside the womb.

A group of people who are related to each other, especially those who live in the same village or town.

A person who agrees to give something, such as their daughter, to someone else.

A second wife taken by a man already married.

A group of women who gather to pray and sing together.

A type of Nigerian steamed bean pudding.

A dish made from pounded yam, commonly served with soup or stew.

A type of West African red rice dish.

An expression used to acknowledge a blessing or to express gratitude.

A response to the expression 'Praise the Lord!' often used in religious services.

An expression used to describe things in a complimentary or encouraging way.

A meal or food that is offered or presented as a gesture of kindness or hospitality.

A type of traditional West African medicine or potion.

A family meeting where members discuss important issues or events.

A spiritual force, often associated with a personal god, that is believed to influence one's destiny.

The belief that the gods control one's fate.

The act of formally acknowledging someone's status or giving them respect, often by visiting them.

A small amount of money.

A type of religious shrine commonly found in traditional African cultures.

A traditional African greeting often translated as 'Yes, indeed'.

A person considered to be a grandfather figure, regardless of biological relationship.

A person who is perceived as being arrogant or superior due to their social status or wealth.

A person who behaves in a way that suggests they are better than others.

A group of people who imitate the appearance or behavior of a popular figure.

The practice of copying someone's hairstyle or fashion style.

A common way of walking that involves lifting the feet quickly in succession, making it seem like movement is hurried.

An activity, like singing, that makes a clear, sharp, high sound.

A person who is regarded as being superior in social standing or popularity.

An action performed quickly, as if in a race.

Papa-Nnukwu refused to enter the family's compound in Enugu because he saw the family as following the wrong path due to their religious faith.

The scar on Kevin's neck, resembling a dagger, symbolizes a past event that has forever marked him, drawing attention to his life outside the family.

The narrow gate to Papa-Nnukwu's compound signifies the limited space and resources that define his life, highlighting the contrast with the family's opulence.

The small, simple house in Papa-Nnukwu's compound, compared to the narrator's spacious house, reflects the simplicity of his life and contrasting experiences.

The outhouse in Papa-Nnukwu's compound exemplifies the basic living conditions that contrast with the narrator's more modern lifestyle.

The narrator's initial examination of Papa-Nnukwu for signs of 'Godlessness' underlines the prejudiced beliefs instilled by her father, emphasizing the strong hold religion has on her.

Papa-Nnukwu, despite being stooped with age, still retains a sense of stature and dignified presence, representing the past and his enduring strength.

The narrator's visit to Papa-Nnukwu highlights the tension between family tradition, faith, and the complexities of a multi-generational family.