Podcast
Questions and Answers
Who are the judges in the legal case in Chapter 10, and how do they behave?
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?
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?
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?
What announcement does Chielo, the priestess, make in Chapter 11?
How does Okonkwo react when the priestess first makes her announcement?
How does Okonkwo react when the priestess first makes her announcement?
What actions does Okonkwo take later and what do they show about his character?
What actions does Okonkwo take later and what do they show about his character?
What does the priestess do with Ezinma after emerging from the cave?
What does the priestess do with Ezinma after emerging from the cave?
What joyous ceremony takes place the day after the return from the cave?
What joyous ceremony takes place the day after the return from the cave?
What sorrowful news does the drum announce?
What sorrowful news does the drum announce?
What terrible accident occurs at the funeral and what happens to Okonkwo's family as a result?
What terrible accident occurs at the funeral and what happens to Okonkwo's family as a result?
Why do you think Achebe chose to end Part One the way he did?
Why do you think Achebe chose to end Part One the way he did?
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.
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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.
