Final answer:
In 'To Kill a Mockingbird', the First Purchase African M.E. church is depicted as a simple, whitewashed building without glass windows, symbolizing both a place of sanctuary and racial economic divisions. It carries historical significance as it was purchased by freed slaves, marking the importance of freedom and community for the Black characters in the novel.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird, First Purchase African M.E. refers to an African-American church attended by many of the Black characters. It is described as an old building, painted with whitewash and being very basic in its construction. The church doesn't have the luxury of glass windows but instead has open windows, and it has a simple pine pulpit. This description sets the church apart from the more affluent white churches in the novel, reflecting the racial and economic divisions in the society of Maycomb.
The name ‘First Purchase’ itself is significant as it is the first thing that the freed slaves purchased together following their emancipation, symbolizing a sanctuary and a symbol of their freedom and community. The historical and cultural implications of First Purchase African M.E. Church create a vivid backdrop for scenes in the novel that address themes of racial inequality and community solidarity.