Rataiczak, Rita. Pixabay.com. Pixabay, 2016. Web. 30 May 2016.
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Etagere FigurinesThe etagere figurines were crucial in the introduction of the story, hence why they were chosen to be the first artifact on the list. When Papa Eugene discovers that Jaja did not attend communion that day, he becomes infuriated and throws a missal at his son. However, the missal did not hit Jaja, but rather destroyed the ceramic figurines that Mama polished every day. The etagere figurines were completely in pieces on the floor until Mama bent down to pick them up. This symbolizes the moment when "Things started to fall apart at home..." (Adichie 1). The manner in which Mama picks up the broken figurines is also significant, as she does so without saying anything. Such silence represents the submission of Mama to Papa.
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Insight |
There are many forms of symbolism used by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie in the scenes with the etagere figurines. When Papa throws the large missal at the fragile figurines, it exemplifies his authority over the household. Papa is depicted as the omnipotent father who has control over every aspect of his children's and wife's lives, whilst Kambili, Jaja, and Mama are empty souls who always yield to Papa. In addition to this, Kambili later tells Mama, "'I'm sorry your figurines broke, Mama.'" instead of something along the lines of "I'm sorry Papa broke your figurines." (Adichie 10). Kambili's choice of words shows that she believes Papa is never wrong in his actions and all mistakes are caused by she, Jaja, and Mama.
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Placement |
The etagere figurnes are one of the first items to be mentioned in Purple Hibiscus, which justifies their placement on this artifacts list. They help to introduce the reader to the volatile atmosphere of Kambili's family and the dominant personality of Papa. As the book goes on, the ideas brought forth by the etagere figurines are elaborated on and make much more sense.
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