Questions and Answers
Where does Okonkwo bring his family after being banished from his village?
the motherland, his mother's kinsmen in Mbanta.
What does Uchendu, the younger brother of Okonkwo's mother, give to Okonkwo after he comes looking for refuge?
a plot to build his compound, a couple of pieces of land to build his farm, and seeds contributed by his sons.
What is the final ceremony Amikwu, Uchendu's youngest son, has to perform before getting married?
a confession ceremony where they speak if they have cheated (isa-ife).
What question does Njide, the eldest sister of Uchendu, ask of her brother's bride during the isa-ife?
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Why do the people say 'Mother is Supreme' when the man is the head of the family?
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What does Uchendu tell Okonkwo his duty was?
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What does Obierika bring for Okonkwo two years after Okonkwo had been exiled?
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What does the Abame clan do to the first white man that comes to their village?
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What news does Obierika bring to Okonkwo and Uchendu about the Abame clan?
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Why does Uchendu say, 'Never kill a man who says nothing' when Obierika tells them about the white man the Abame killed?
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Who says that the Abame were fools and had been warned of danger?
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Where does Obierika get the bags of cowries that he brings to Okonkwo?
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Study Notes
Okonkwo's Exile and Return
- After his banishment, Okonkwo relocates his family to Mbanta, the village of his mother's kinsmen.
- Uchendu, Okonkwo's maternal uncle, provides him with land and seeds to help him establish a new farm.
Marriage Ceremonies
- Amikwu, Uchendu's youngest son, must hold a confession ceremony called isa-ife before getting married.
- During this ceremony, Njide, Uchendu's elder sister, inquires about the bride's past relationships, asking how many men she has been with.
Significance of the Motherland
- The phrase "Mother is Supreme" reflects the protective nature of one's maternal home; men find refuge there, and it serves as a spiritual anchor as mothers are revered and buried in their own land.
- Uchendu emphasizes the importance of men caring for their families, advising Okonkwo to comfort his wives and children during their time of exile.
Obierika's Support
- Obierika visits Okonkwo after two years of exile, bringing two heavy bags of cowries, which he obtained by selling Okonkwo's yams in his absence.
The Abame Incident
- The Abame clan reacts to the first appearance of a white man by killing him and tying his horse to a sacred tree, indicating a breach of cultural protocol.
- Obierika informs Okonkwo and Uchendu that the entire Abame clan has been exterminated in retaliation for this act.
Warnings and Consequences
- Uchendu warns against killing a silent man, as it denies understanding potential threats or intentions. The danger might come not from vocalized aggression but from unnoticed actions.
- Okonkwo criticizes the Abame clan, labeling them foolish for failing to heed warnings and for not arming themselves adequately for defense when facing outsiders.
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Description
Explore the themes of exile, marriage, and maternal significance in Chapter 14 of 'Things Fall Apart'. This quiz delves into Okonkwo's experiences during his banishment and highlights the cultural practices surrounding marriage in his community. Test your understanding of Uchendu's role and the importance of the motherland in Igbo society.
