The document provides an overview and analysis of Barbara Kingsolver's novel The Poisonwood Bible. It discusses how the novel exposes the problems that stem from cultural ignorance and close-mindedness. It focuses on one of the narrators, Leah Price, who initially valued her father Nathaniel's approval but grew to reject his values as he refused to embrace the local African culture. A pivotal moment was when Nathaniel insulted the native culture during a church vote, causing Leah to lose respect for him. The document argues that Nathaniel's inability to adapt created problems and shaped Leah into someone who no longer viewed him positively.

1. The Poisonwood Bible
Intro People always greatly and negatively impact each other, though they believe it to be for the
greater good. In the 1950's European and American imperialism tore asunder what tranquility there
was in the Congo. These countries may have not been aware of their influence at the time, but the
outcome nonetheless was drastic. Cultural misunderstandings were the ultimate catalyst for the
Congo's destruction. In Barbara Kingsolver's novel The Poisonwood Bible published in 1998 she
exposes how cultural ignorance creates problems. With her chosen syntax, point of view, and time
gap of each narrator Kingsolver exposes how close mindedness creates unfulfilled results because
individuals can not adapt to cultural changes.
Style
Barbara...show more content...
All she wanted was his approval and recognition, but as time progressed she no longer valued his
values the same way. Throughout the text " Leah, who sees with the eyes of an intelligent, flexible
learner, presents historical and cultural details...integrates all types of knowledge into her narratives"
(Austenfeld). For example Leah embraced African culture while her father never condoned it. Leah
Price's pivotal moment follows at the church's vote. While the congregation votes on "tata Jesus"
The Preacher stands up and spits wounding words in all directions. As her father insultes the
native's culture she no longer considers her father to be a holy man. Even though she was raised
around his teachings she no longer considers him to be of pure intentions. Since "Nathan is
arrogant, inflexible, and passionately committed" he never attempted to learn the society's needs he
just wanted to create Christian clones for his own selfish salvation. In the end she finally states, "If
I had a prayer left in me, it was that this red–faced man [Nathaniel] shaking with rage would never
lay a hand on me again" officially ending her glorious thoughts towards her father (Kingsolver 333).
Since the reader progressed though Leah's bildungsroman they realize Nathaniel's inability to adapt
created an individual worthy of a monstrous title.
Another strong candidate in the reader's mind is Ruth May, she is innocent.
Get more content on HelpWriting.net