Petals of Blood

Identify the protagonists and antagonists in the text. Are the roles clear-cut or ambiguous? Explore how the antagonists force the action and development of the protagonists.

Research and analyze the epigraphs of each part of the text. Explain how these epigraphs are relevant to their parts. What deeper understanding of the text can be gleaned from this information?

What does Abdulla’s donkey symbolize in the text? Explore the impact of this symbolism on the text’s themes.

Several characters make confessions about their pasts throughout the text—Munira, Karega, and Wanja in particular. What role do these confessions play in their character development?

Explore the ideas of personal versus collective history as they are presented in the text. How do they help with identity formation, both for individuals and for a nation?

If capitalism is the enemy of the people in the text, in what ways is socialism presented as a better alternative? Examine the characters, conflicts, and other key literary elements as support.

In what ways is Munira a tragic hero? What characteristics does he have, and what events in the text (outside of his control or not) lead him to tragedy? Why is his perspective centered, and how would the text change if another character was the primary narrator?

Is Wanja responsible for Munira’s obsession and subsequent arson and murder? If so, how? If not, why not?