Podcast
Questions and Answers
How does Okonkwo react to Ikemefuna's death?
How does Okonkwo react to Ikemefuna's death?
Okonkwo seems tortured about Ikemefuna's death. He could not taste food, could not sleep, and drank palm wine from morning till night.
Why does Okonkwo doubt Oguefi Ndulu's strength?
Why does Okonkwo doubt Oguefi Ndulu's strength?
Okonkwo doubted Oguefi because he always consulted his wife or others.
Why is Ezinma so special to Ekwefi?
Why is Ezinma so special to Ekwefi?
Ezinma is her only child and center of her world. Ezinma is the only survivor, and they share a tight bond.
What does Okonkwo's reaction to Ezinma's illness show about him as a father?
What does Okonkwo's reaction to Ezinma's illness show about him as a father?
What does 'Indulgently' mean?
What does 'Indulgently' mean?
What does 'Rebuked' refer to?
What does 'Rebuked' refer to?
What does 'Valor' mean?
What does 'Valor' mean?
Who are the Eqwugwu and how do they settle the wife-beating case?
Who are the Eqwugwu and how do they settle the wife-beating case?
Why do you think Achebe includes the story of the Tortoise?
Why do you think Achebe includes the story of the Tortoise?
Define masculinity.
Define masculinity.
Define feminism.
Define feminism.
How has Okonkwo tried to protect Ezinma?
How has Okonkwo tried to protect Ezinma?
Describe the uri and explain what it represents in the Igbo community.
Describe the uri and explain what it represents in the Igbo community.
Define conspiracies.
Define conspiracies.
Define esoteric.
Define esoteric.
Define malevolence.
Define malevolence.
Define pandemonium.
Define pandemonium.
Define notorious.
Define notorious.
Define orators.
Define orators.
Study Notes
Okonkwo's Emotional Struggles
- Okonkwo is deeply affected by Ikemefuna's death, leading to a complete loss of appetite, insomnia, and excessive drinking.
- His internal turmoil indicates a significant emotional capacity despite his typically stoic demeanor.
Doubts About Oguefi Ndulue
- Okonkwo feels Oguefi Ndulue lacks strength for relying on others, particularly his wife, for decision-making.
- Oguefi's approach exemplifies wisdom in seeking counsel, highlighting a contrast between leadership styles.
Ezinma's Significance
- Ezinma is Ekwefi's sole surviving child, representing her emotional anchor and deep bond with her mother.
- Their unique relationship, symbolized by sharing secret treats, emphasizes their closeness and mutual affection.
Okonkwo as a Caring Father
- Okonkwo’s immediate actions to help Ezinma when she falls ill reveal a softer side, showcasing his care through proactive measures.
- His actions indicate that, while he may not express emotions openly, he demonstrates love through attentive caregiving.
Vocabulary
- Indulgently: To yield to whims or desires; acts as an adjective.
- Rebuked: An expression of sharp disapproval or criticism; also refers to the act of criticizing someone's behavior.
- Valor: Boldness or determination in facing danger; encompasses bravery and heroic courage.
- Approbation: Noun referring to approval or praise.
- Audacity: Noun denoting boldness or daring behavior.
Igbo Justice System
- The Eqwugwu are nine masked elders representing different villages, serving as a court system.
- In a wife-beating case, the ruling mandates the husband to apologize and compensate her family, revealing gender biases in justice.
- The ruling reflects a community aimed at preventing violence, without severe penalties for the offender.
Moral Lessons from Stories
- The tale of the Tortoise illustrates consequences of greed and ingratitude, reinforcing cultural morality through personification.
- Tortoise as a trickster emphasizes the pitfalls of selfish behavior.
Gender Concepts
- Masculinity: Attributes associated with men, such as strength and boldness.
- Feminism: Advocacy for equal rights for women in all social, political, and economic spheres.
Okonkwo's Protective Nature
- Okonkwo displays concern for Ezinma by following her to the caves for healing, showcasing his protective instincts.
- His pacing around the cave indicates a deep care that contrasts with his usual stoicism.
Cultural Customs
- Uri: The ceremony where the groom presents palm wine to the bride's family, signifying engagement and cultural bonding within the community.
Miscellaneous Vocabulary
- Conspiracies: Secret plans devised by groups to commit unlawful acts.
- Esoteric: Knowledge or interests understood by a small group, often specialized in nature.
- Malevolence: The state of wishing harm or evil on others.
- Pandemonium: A state of wild uproar or chaos.
- Notorious: Well-known for negative reasons or actions.
- Orators: Skilled public speakers, often influential in discourse.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore the key themes and character reactions in chapters 8 to 14 of 'Things Fall Apart' through these flashcards. Understand Okonkwo's emotional turmoil over Ikemefuna's death and his perceptions of elders in the clan. This quiz will help reinforce your comprehension of these pivotal moments.
