Symbolism in Black Panther: Erik Killmonger's Necklace and the Purple Lips

Overview of Symbolism in Black Panther

In the 2018 blockbuster Black Panther, directed by Ryan Coogler, numerous symbols and artifacts play crucial roles in driving the narrative and character development. Among the most significant is the necklace worn by Erik Killmonger, a piece of jewelry that holds profound meaning and symbolism. Additionally, the purple lips associated with the heart-shaped herb further enhance the film's deeper themes and cultural resonance.

Significance of Erik Killmonger's Necklace

Heritage and Identity

The necklace, crafted from vibranium harvested from the heart-shaped herb, is a tangible connection to Killmonger's lineage. Given to him by his father, N'Jordu, a Wakandan prince, this accessory symbolizes Killmonger's royal heritage and his identity as a legitimate heir. Black Panther delves into the importance of ancestry and bloodline in leading a nation, particularly in a fictional world where the principle of one blood leads to a monarch's right to rule.

Claim to the Throne

When T'Challa encounters the necklace, his recognition of it as belonging to his father's line solidifies Killmonger's claim to the Wakandan throne. This recognition by T'Challa acknowledges Killmonger as a rightful heir, critically impacting their conflict. It prompts T'Challa to reconsider his own leadership and the policies of Wakanda.

Recognition by T'Challa

The necklace serves as a catalyst for T'Challa's realization that Killmonger is not merely an adversary but a rival with genuine royal lineage. This moment challenges T'Challa's perspective and the inherent radioactive isolationist stance of Wakanda. The necklace brings to light the complexities of leadership and family legacy, forcing T'Challa to confront the systemic issues within his nation.

Legitimacy of Killmonger's Reign

Despite the necklace's significant symbolism, Killmonger's methods and ideology ultimately question his legitimacy in T'Challa's eyes. Killmonger's vision of using Wakanda's resources to empower oppressed individuals overseas stands in stark contrast to T'Challa's policy of unity and healing. Killmonger's quest for power through violence and revenge highlights the ethical dilemmas in wielding authority and the moral imperatives of leadership.

The Purple Lips: Visual Representation of the Black Panther Heritage

The purple lips in the film serve as a visual representation of the heart-shaped herb, the mystical vthing that bestows superhuman abilities to the Black Panther. Characters who consume the herb or are exposed to it display purple lips, symbolizing their connection to the ancestral plane and the power of the Black Panther. This visual cue underscores the spiritual and physical transformation associated with the mantle of the Black Panther and emphasizes the cultural significance of the heart-shaped herb in Wakandan society.

Conclusion

To summarize, Erik Killmonger's necklace signifies his royal heritage and claim to the Wakandan throne, complicate T'Challa's conflict, and challenge traditional notions of leadership. The purple lips in the film serve as a powerful visual representation of the lineage and power of the Black Panther, reinforcing the cultural and spiritual significance of the heart-shaped herb in Black Panther. Through these symbols, the film explores themes of heritage, power, and leadership, providing both an entertaining and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Keywords: Erik Killmonger, Black Panther Necklace, Purple Lips