Author: Swati Suman, Dr. Vinamrata

Abstract: “Every leaf, every blade of grass, every sand, every inch of earth is alive. This is what Shug talks about, God being in everything” (Walker 202). Green spirituality, often called eco-spirituality, emphasizes the profound connection between human life and the natural world, viewing nature as sacred rather than merely functional. This paper examines how eco-spiritual awareness develops in Alice Walker’s ‘The Color Purple’, focusing on the protagonist Celie’s spiritual journey. As Celie transitions from silence and oppression to self-awareness, her growing sensitivity to nature becomes central to her transformation. Drawing on eco-critical and ecofeminist perspectives, along with insights from Félix Guattari and Bron Taylor, this paper argues that Walker presents spirituality as experienced and felt within the natural world rather than as something imposed from outside. Through symbols such as the color purple, trees, rivers, and the garden, the novel illustrates how reconnecting with nature can lead to healing, empowerment, and a more ethical way of living. Ultimately, this study suggests that Walker’s vision of spirituality provides a meaningful response to contemporary ecological concerns.

Keywords: Green spirituality, eco-criticism, eco-spirituality, environment, anthropocentrism, self-awakening

Article Info: Received: 09 May 2026; Received in revised form: 30 May 2026; Accepted: 03 Jun 2026; Available online: 06 Jun 2026

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.113.52