The Power of Women in the Color PurpleDespite the odds, women can overcome all obstacles. In the past, women struggled desperately because they were belittled by men. They were considered ignorant beings who only knew how to manage household chores. In The Color Purple, by Alice Walker, sexism was linked in the novel. Throughout history, many women have been extremely mistreated by men. Their experiences were considered insignificant because they were always subordinate to them. Through the collection of letters written by Celie, the reader was able to see the development of one frightened young woman who had little self-esteem and another, Shug, who struggled to become a successful woman. In fact, Celie almost fought for her happiness. all life. When she was just a little girl, her stepfather sexually assaulted her. He then sold her to a man named Mr. ____ who had no intention of liking her: "It doesn't matter what I think." It doesn't matter how I feel. It’s just him” (Walker 69). Mr. ____ verbally and physically abused her. He expected her to do all the household chores and demanded that she take care of her children: “They're looking at me over there, fighting with Mr.____'s children” ( Walker 45). If Célie refused, she was punished. Through all these traumatic events, Célie lost her self-respect and forgot how to love. His life was full of darkness, without any trace of light. However, Celie met a woman named Shug who gave her the courage to fight for what she believed in. Shug taught her to laugh and play and showed Celie a whole new perspective on life. Shug constantly reminded Celie to speak up if something bothered her and not to do anything she didn't want to do, “…say whatever comes to mind, forget politeness” (Walker 75 ). Celie was no longer afraid of Mr. ____. She stopped cleaning and left to start her own business: “It’s you, a crooked dog, who’s wrong.” It is time to leave you and enter Creation. And your corpse is just the welcome mat I need” (Walker 207). She realized that women don't need men to survive because they can fend for themselves. Celie was a whole new woman. Additionally, Shug was a successful and powerful woman. She was a desirable, creative and intelligent blues singer..