Things Fall Apart Chapter 21

Missionary Influence in the Village

• White missionaries set up trading posts, benefiting the village economically by introducing the export of palm oil and palm nut kernels.
• This influx of money leads to increased wealth in the community, creating a complex relationship with the new religion.

Mr. Brown's Approach

• Mr. Brown, a missionary, avoids conflict with the clan by moderating his congregation's behavior and persuading them to respect Umuofia's traditions.
• Engages in discussions with Akunna, a clan leader, aiming for mutual understanding rather than conversion.

Religious Engagement

• Akunna articulates the clan's monotheistic view, identifying Chukwu as the creator of both the world and lesser gods.
• Mr. Brown asserts the exclusivity of his faith, claiming there are no other gods besides the Christian God.

Cultural Symbolism and Understanding

• Mr. Brown debates the significance of Ikenga, a wooden figure representing strength, clarifying its role as a symbolic object rather than an idol.
• Akunna acknowledges it as a creation of Chukwu, illustrating respect for the clan's beliefs.

Educational and Health Initiatives

• Mr. Brown establishes a hospital and school, advocating for education to prevent exploitation by those who are literate.
• The hospital receives community praise for its effective treatments, highlighting the benefits of cross-cultural interactions.

Okonkwo's Return and Perspective

• Upon returning, Okonkwo feels alienated as his clan shows indifference to his presence, symbolizing the cultural schism created by colonialism.
• Obierika expresses despair over the changes, suggesting the community's cohesion has irrevocably deteriorated.

Family and Gender Dynamics

• Okonkwo's relationship with his daughter Ezinma highlights his struggle with traditional masculinity; she influences familial decisions.
• Okonkwo's lectures to his sons reflect his inability to adapt to changing notions of gender and strength.

Responses to Colonialism

• Mr. Brown encourages the youth to embrace education to maintain autonomy from the colonial government's oppressive impact.
• European legal systems clash with Igbo customs, exemplified in the punishment of certain cultural practices without understanding.

Achebe's Intentions

• "Things Fall Apart" serves to educate the West about African culture, showcasing the richness of Igbo language and customs.
• The narrative emphasizes the disintegration of a sophisticated culture due to outside influence, capturing the essence of colonial impact.

Cultural Transformation

• Nwoye, formerly Okonkwo's son, adopts a Christian identity, reflecting personal and collective cultural shifts within the clan.
• Okonkwo mourns the transformation of his clan from fierce warriors to a perceived softer existence, underscoring a profound cultural loss.

Institutions Brought by Missionaries

• The missionaries introduce three significant institutions: religion, government, and trade, altering the social landscape of Igbo society.
• The new economic relationships threaten the clan’s self-sufficiency and cultural identity.

Views on Language and Power

• The status of written language rises, conveying power and status, contrasting with the oral traditions historically valued in Igbo culture.
• The community's engagement with literacy marks a shift in social dynamics, further entrenching colonial influence.

Explore the influence of white missionaries in Chapter 21 of 'Things Fall Apart'. This quiz addresses key events and characters, focusing on how the villagers react to the newfound wealth and the role of Mr. Brown in maintaining peace. Test your knowledge with these flashcards!