Purple Hibiscus

Lesson 10
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ELA

Unit 9

9th Grade

Lesson 10 of 32

Objective


Explain how and why the author uses the character of Kambili’s father as a foil to Kambili.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie  pp. 1 – 70

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Target Task


Writing Prompt

Compare and contrast Kambili and her father, Eugene. What does Adichie communicate to the reader by using father as foil to daughter? Explain using evidence from the text.

Key Questions


  • Compare/contrast Kambili and Papa's actions and reactions to the major events this far in the novel (the coup, Mama's sickness before church, Mama's beating, Kambili coming in 2nd place).
  • After identifying Kambili and Eugene's actions/reactions to each of these events, examine what these reactions show about their characters.
  • What parts of their personalities do they share?
  • What parts do they not share?
  • What parts of Kambili's character come into sharper focus when contrasted with her father?

Notes


In fiction, a foil is a character who contrasts with another character (typically the protagonist). Highlighting the points of contrast between the characters is a way for the author to bring the protagonist's characteristics into sharper focus.

Next

Analyze the interactions between Mama and Aunty Ifeoma in order to make inferences about each of these major characters.

Lesson 11
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Lesson Map

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