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Questions and Answers
What story does Ekwefi tell Ezinma?
What story does Ekwefi tell Ezinma?
What is the story about?
What is the story about?
All of the birds have been invited to a feast in the sky and Tortoise persuades the birds to lend him feathers to make wings so that he can attend the feast as well. As they travel to the feast, Tortoise persuades them to take new names for the feast according to custom. He tells the birds that his name will be 'All of you.' When they arrive, Tortoise asks his hosts for whom the feast is prepared. They reply, 'For all of you.' Tortoise proceeds to eat and drink the best parts of the food and wine. The birds, angry and disgruntled at receiving only scraps, take back the feathers that they had given to Tortoise so that he is unable to fly home. Tortoise persuades Parrot to deliver a message to his wife: he wants her to cover their compound with their soft things so that he may jump from the sky without danger. Maliciously, Parrot tells Tortoise's wife to bring out all of the hard things. When Tortoise jumps, his shell breaks into pieces on impact. A medicine man puts it together again, which is why Tortoise's shell is not smooth.
What does Chielo, in her role as priestess, inform Ekwefi and Okonkwo?
What does Chielo, in her role as priestess, inform Ekwefi and Okonkwo?
Chielo, taking on the voice of the divine Agbala, asks for Ezinma to come to her.
How do Okonkwo and Ekwefi try to persuade Chielo?
How do Okonkwo and Ekwefi try to persuade Chielo?
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How does Ezinma leave to speak to the Oracle of the Hills and Caves?
How does Ezinma leave to speak to the Oracle of the Hills and Caves?
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What does Ekwefi do when Chielo takes Ezinma? Who joins her?
What does Ekwefi do when Chielo takes Ezinma? Who joins her?
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What does Ekwefi decide to do once outside of the cave?
What does Ekwefi decide to do once outside of the cave?
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What memory does this spark in Ekwefi's mind while sitting with Okonkwo outside of the cave?
What memory does this spark in Ekwefi's mind while sitting with Okonkwo outside of the cave?
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Why does Ekwefi follow Chielo's words? What does this prove?
Why does Ekwefi follow Chielo's words? What does this prove?
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How does Ekwefi defy Okonkwo's ideas of femininity?
How does Ekwefi defy Okonkwo's ideas of femininity?
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Why is Okonkwo careful to show respect for Chielo?
Why is Okonkwo careful to show respect for Chielo?
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How do the villagers think of Chielo?
How do the villagers think of Chielo?
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What does the tale of the Tortoise prepare the reader for?
What does the tale of the Tortoise prepare the reader for?
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What does Chielo do when she senses that someone is following her?
What does Chielo do when she senses that someone is following her?
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What does storytelling represent in Igbo culture?
What does storytelling represent in Igbo culture?
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Study Notes
Ekwefi's Storytelling
- Ekwefi tells Ezinma a folktale involving an avaricious tortoise from Igbo culture.
- The story illustrates themes of cunning and the consequences of greed.
The Tortoise's Feast
- Tortoise convinces birds to lend feathers for wings to attend a sky feast.
- He tricks the birds into changing their names, claiming "All of you" as his.
- Tortoise consumes the finest food, angering the birds who return for their feathers, leaving him grounded.
- Tortoise attempts to jump home, but is deceived by Parrot, resulting in his shattered shell, permanently leaving it rough.
Chielo's Divine Call
- Chielo, as the priestess, demands Ezinma’s presence, claiming divine instructions from Agbala.
- Okonkwo respects the authority of the oracle despite fearing for his daughter.
Parental Defiance
- Ekwefi and Okonkwo attempt to delay Chielo, but she asserts that defying a god is unacceptable.
- Ekwefi chooses to follow Chielo, prioritizing Ezinma's safety over divine order.
- Their willingness to confront religious authority demonstrates the depth of their familial love.
Ekwefi's Resolve
- Outside the Oracle’s cave, Ekwefi vows to protect Ezinma at all costs, even against divine forces.
Reflections on Love
- Sitting with Okonkwo, Ekwefi recalls fleeing from her first husband, highlighting their bond and unspoken understanding.
Chielo’s Authority
- The seriousness of Chielo’s role as a priestess is evident; her words command respect and fear.
- Okonkwo acknowledges her power, understanding not to underestimate her.
Villagers' Perception of Chielo
- Chielo is recognized by villagers for her genuine divine power, contrasting with more ceremonial figures.
Themes of Colonial Foreshadowing
- The tortoise tale allegorizes colonialism, showcasing themes of deception and unity against oppression.
- The second strategy of Parrot highlights cunning and manipulation as a response to exploitation.
Curses and Spiritual Vigilance
- Chielo senses a follower and curses them, showcasing her connection to the divine and the power she wields.
Importance of Storytelling
- Storytelling in Igbo culture serves as a vital tool for imparting history, education, and cultural beliefs across generations.
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Description
Explore key concepts from Chapter 11 of 'Things Fall Apart' through engaging flashcards. Dive into Igbo folklore with the story of a cunning tortoise and learn about the themes and characters that shape this pivotal chapter. Perfect for enhancing your understanding of the novel.
