Growth and Development

The theme of growth and development is evident throughout the beginning of the novel so far. The second chapter begins with comparing Pecola's development as a mother with the marigolds growing that year: " We thought, at the time, that it was because Pecola was having her father's baby that the marigolds did not grow," (Morrison 5). Along with this growth for Pecula, on page 27 she devolops into a woman. Although I believe the story will center aroung Claudia's development, Pecola's will be very important. She is the girl who begins the fascination of the perfect blonde hair blue eyed girl: "Freida and she had a loving conversation about how cu-ute Shirley Temple was," (Morrison 19). As the novel begins ot unfold, the obsession of the Shirley Temple-like girl will most likely grow and cause conflict among the characters Pecola, Freida, and Claudia since they do not yet see their beauty.