Dr. Dazka
MRKT 130
November 1st, 2017
Purple Hibiscus Reading Response
I chose to discuss the theme of domestic violence in Purple Hibiscus. As I read the book, there were numerous instances of Papa using violence to demonstrate control of his family. The violence seems to ensue after Papa actions that he deems immoral. For example, when Beatrice doesn’t want to visit Father Benedict because of her illness, Papa beats her resulting in a miscarriage. In another incident, Jaja and Kambili share a home with a heathen. As a punishment, boiling hot water was poured upon their feet for “walking in sin”. Papa seems unfazed by the violence he inflicts upon on his family, justifying that his actions are for their own good. The abuse has