3 Questions
What does Okonkwo fear the most?
Being seen as weak or feminine, like his father.
Why does Okonkwo participate in Ikemefuna's killing?
He wants to prove his strength and avoid appearing weak.
What is the cause of tension between Okonkwo and his son, Nwoye?
Nwoye converts to Christianity.
Study Notes
- Okonkwo is a successful and aggressive man who values strength and masculinity.
- He fears being seen as weak or feminine, like his father.
- Okonkwo's eldest son, Nwoye, worries him because he sees signs of laziness.
- The clan demands the sacrifice of a virgin and a 15-year-old boy, Ikemefuna, who lives with Okonkwo's family for three years.
- Ikemefuna becomes close to Nwoye and Okonkwo, but Okonkwo participates in Ikemefuna's killing to avoid appearing weak.
- Okonkwo accidentally kills a fellow clansman and is forced to flee with his family for seven years.
- Okonkwo's son, Nwoye, converts to Christianity, causing tension with his father.
- White missionaries arrive and start to change the clan's way of life, causing further tension.
- Okonkwo kills a messenger and hangs himself, leading to his body being considered an abomination.
- The District Commissioner observes the situation for his book on Nigeria.
"Test Your Knowledge of Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart': Explore the Themes of Masculinity, Tradition, and Change in this Classic Novel. How Well Do You Remember Okonkwo's Story and the Struggles He Faced in Pre-Colonial Nigeria? Take the Quiz Now and Find Out!"
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