Things Fall Apart: Ch 10-13 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Who are the judges in the legal case in Chapter 10, and how do they behave?

The judges are egwugwu's ancestral spirits, who are actually just masked men of the village. They strike fear in the women and children.

Do you think the people of Umuofia know what is behind the egwugwu masks or not?

Yes, the villagers know that the egwugwu are not real.

What was Ekwefi's folktale about?

The Tortoise Tale tells of a tortoise whose greed leads to his downfall.

What announcement does Chielo, the priestess, make in Chapter 11?

Chielo tells Ezinma's mother that Agbala wants to see Ezinma. Signup and view all the answers

How does Okonkwo react when the priestess first makes her announcement?

Okonkwo requests that she return in the morning since Ekwefi has been sick. Signup and view all the answers

What actions does Okonkwo take later and what do they show about his character?

Okonkwo shows affection for certain people, which is notable in the context of the story. Signup and view all the answers

What does the priestess do with Ezinma after emerging from the cave?

She takes Ezinma on her back and takes her to her village to put her to bed. Signup and view all the answers

What joyous ceremony takes place the day after the return from the cave?

A betrothal ceremony. Signup and view all the answers

What sorrowful news does the drum announce?

The drum announces Obbuefi Ezendu's death. Signup and view all the answers

What terrible accident occurs at the funeral and what happens to Okonkwo's family as a result?

Okonkwo's gun went off and killed someone, resulting in his banishment from the village for seven years and the sale of all his yams. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you think Achebe chose to end Part One the way he did?

Achebe ends Part One to show how seriously the Umuofians take their faith. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Judges in Chapter 10

Judges are egwugwu, represented by masked men from the village.
Their presence instills fear among women and children.

Awareness of Egwugwu's Nature

Villagers are aware that egwugwu are not real ancestors.
Observations suggest Okonkwo's wives notice the traits of the second egwugwu.
Achebe hints at the villagers' knowledge through the characters' interactions, yet maintains respect for Chielo’s spiritual power.

Ekwefi's Folktale

The Tortoise Tale narrates the greed of a tortoise that leads to his downfall.
Tortoise seeks wings to join a bird feast in the sky, revealing themes of desire and consequence.

Announcement by Chielo

Chielo announces that Ezinma is wanted by Agbala, the Oracle.
Ezinma is taken to the nine villages and the Cave of Agbala.

Okonkwo's Response to the Priestess

Okonkwo asks Chielo to return the following morning due to Ekwefi's illness.

Okonkwo's Character Reveal

Actions show Okonkwo cares deeply for family but struggles to express affection openly.
This moment illustrates a rare display of tenderness in his character.

Post-Cave Actions

After the cave visit, Chielo carries Ezinma home on her back to ensure she is cared for.

Joyous Ceremony

A betrothal ceremony occurs the day after Ezinma’s return, marking communal celebration.

Sorrowful News from the Drum

The funeral drum announces the death of Obbuefi Ezendu, a prominent clan figure who held three of the clan's four titles.

Accident at the Funeral

An accidental gun discharge by Okonkwo results in a tragic death.
This incident leads to Okonkwo's exile from the village for seven years and the loss of his yams.

Conclusion of Part One

The ending emphasizes the seriousness of Umuofia’s cultural beliefs and traditions.

Description

Dive into the intricate world of Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart' with these flashcards covering Chapters 10 to 13. Explore key concepts such as the egwugwu judges and the villagers' understanding of their role. Perfect for enhancing your comprehension and recall of the text.