Power of one's name

Mary Agnes is an example of a woman that is fighting for her life. She tries to fight for Sofia, but instead gets reminded of her value to men in that society due to her being a female and black. She gets raped, battered and torn, but this instead of defeating her reestablishes a strength inside of her. She no longer accepts the name that belittles her. She fights for her name Mary Agnes. This shows how she no longer accepts the patriarchal words and symbols imposed on her by a man (Harpo). It is ironic because Harpo is a nickname for him in which everyone accepts and nor does Harpo fight for anyone to call him by his real name. On the other hand, Mary Agnes fights for her name, for her rights, and will no longer accept any type of social role, fixed gender role, or any idea that she does not deserve to be treated right. Celie made a powerful statement, "I'm pore, I'm black, I may be ugly and can't cook... But I'm here," same goes for Mary Agnes. They may have raped, taking away her dignity, taking away her respect, taking away her rights, but she is there Mary Agnes!