Disruption of Traditional Gender Roles in Walker'sThe Color Purple

Abstract

The Color Purple concerns a universe in which traditionally masculine traits such as assertiveness, sexual gratification and physical strength are present in female characters. Sofia's strength and Shug's sexual assertiveness arevirtually unsurpassed by any of the male characters. They have rubbed off out to more feminine characters and vice versa. Shug, for instance, learns from and reciprocates Celie’s gentleness and care, while Celie picks up some of Shug’s sexual assertiveness and follows her suggestion that she become owner of a business, a traditionally male role. Mr. ___ and Harpo, conversely, become feminized. Mr. ___ learns to sew and to be a good listener and Harpo cooks, changes his baby’s diaper and kisses his children. Therefore, Walker sees fixed gender roles as meaningless and impractical.