THE BMZ ACADEMY
@061 262 1185/068 053 8213
BMZ ACADEMY 061 262 1185/068 053 8213Page 1 of 15
, THE BMZ ACADEMY
Section A: Reflection: Novel (Unit 4)
1. Prior to embarking on your study of this module and this unit, did you read
any novels? If you did previously read any novels: Share the title of one novel
you liked, reflecting on what you liked about it (refer to specific aspects of the
novel that appealed to you, such as, for example, its genre, setting and/or
characters). If you can, also share the title of a novel you have (tried to) read but
did not like, explaining what you did not like about it. If you did not previously
read any novels, explain briefly why not: What prevented you from reading a
novel (this could be external circumstances or simply your own interests)?
Reflection on Prior Novel Reading Experience
The ENG1501 module has significantly deepened my understanding and appreciation
of literature, particularly in relation to the novel as a literary genre. Before studying Unit
4, which focuses on novels, my engagement with fiction had been sporadic—driven
by a mix of personal curiosity and academic obligations. While I had read several
novels in the past, I often lacked the critical tools to fully grasp or articulate what I
enjoyed or found challenging. Through this module, I have been encouraged to reflect
more thoughtfully on my reading experiences. This reflection explores the novels that
resonated with me as well as those I found difficult, drawing on key literary concepts
introduced in the course to analyse my preferences more meaningfully.
A Novel I Enjoyed: Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
One novel that I thoroughly enjoyed before starting this module was Purple Hibiscus
by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. This novel appealed to me for several reasons,
particularly its genre, setting, and characterisation.
As a work of postcolonial realist fiction, Purple Hibiscus blends family dynamics with
political unrest, creating a narrative that is both intimate and socially conscious. The
setting in Nigeria marked by religious conservatism, political instability, and colonial
hangovers deepened my appreciation for African literature. As the ENG1501 study
guide notes, setting is not only the physical location of the story but also the historical
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