Things Fall Apart Reading Guide

Questions and Answers

What accomplishments have helped to make Okonkwo a great man of the village?

Throwing Amalize the Cat (greatest wrestler in the village)

Compare and contrast Okonkwo with his father, Unoka. Why do you think Okonkwo feels as he does toward his father?

Okonkwo works hard and is well respected, while his father was lazy and had lots of debts.

What are the signs of Okonkwo's wealth?

A barn full of yams, 3 wives, and two titles.

How do the men of Umofia decide what to do about the murder of a woman from their clan? What role do the women of Umofia have in the decision?

All the men gather and decide to send one of their men over to ask for a virgin and a young boy, or they are going to start war. Signup and view all the answers

According to Achebe, what emotion dominates Okonkwo's life? What is the source of this emotion?

Fear...to be like his father. Signup and view all the answers

How do you interpret the proverb, 'Among the Ibo...proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten.'?

Proverbs should not be 'eaten' up but rather enjoyed and allowed to be absorbed. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Unoka consult the Oracle? What does the Oracle tell him?

He is having troubles harvesting crops, and the Oracle tells him he needs to work harder like everyone else. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Week of Peace? What does Okonkwo do to break it and what action does the clan take?

A week when you have to be nice to your neighbors before harvesting; Okonkwo beats his wife for not being there to make him food. He has to take things to sacrifice. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Nwoye and how does Okonkwo treat him? Describe the relationship between Nwoye and Ikemefuna.

Nwoye is his son, and Okonkwo does not show affection because that shows weakness. Nwoye and Ikemefuna are really good friends. Signup and view all the answers

How is Okonkwo's first year as a farmer difficult due to his family history and nature?

His father left nothing behind for him, and the rains were late and only lasted a brief moment. Signup and view all the answers

In a sentence or two, explain the concept of chi.

Chi is a personal god or spirit; when a man wants something, he goes after it and his chi makes sure he becomes successful. Signup and view all the answers

When is the Festival of the New Yam held? Explain Okonkwo's reaction to the festival.

The festival is held before planting the yams; Okonkwo does not enjoy the festival, he would rather be farming. Signup and view all the answers

What causes Okonkwo to shoot at Ekwefi? What does this say about Okonkwo?

She plucked bananas off his banana tree then criticized him for Herbert shooting his gun. He has a short temper. Signup and view all the answers

What is an ilo? How is it used during the Festival?

Ilo is the village gathering place, playground where all the great ceremonies and dances take place. Signup and view all the answers

How do the Ibo treat the winner of the final wrestling match? Why are the winners so revered?

They carry him on their shoulders, sing praise, and clap. It is seen as a great accomplishment. Signup and view all the answers

When Obiageli broke the pot, how did Okonkwo react, and how did you expect him to react?

He defended her. This was odd because he would have snapped on her and beat her, but he did the opposite this time. Signup and view all the answers

How long has Ikemefuna been with the family? Who decides his fate? What does Ezeudu tell Okonkwo about this decision?

3 years, Umuofia decides, Ezeudu warns Okonkwo about the murder of Ikemefuna. Signup and view all the answers

In your opinion, did Ikemefuna know what was about to happen? What do Okonkwo's actions reveal about him?

No, he thought he was going back to see his mom and sister; Okonkwo only cares what others think. Signup and view all the answers

How does Okonkwo feel about his daughter Ezinma? Why?

Wishes she was a boy because he only values masculinity. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the scene between Okonkwo and Obierika. List two things you learn about Ibo culture from this scene and two things about the characters.

Okonkwo calls Obierika out on not coming with him to kill Ikemefuna; they care what others think and rely on divine signs. Signup and view all the answers

Analyze Okonkwo's idea of masculinity. Are his ideas typical of Ibo society, or are they extreme?

A man with little emotions, wrestler, farmer, warrior; his beliefs are extreme due to his fear of being like his father. Signup and view all the answers

What major historical event is foreshadowed by the discussion among Okonkwo and his friends?

The arrival and influence of white people. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Ekwefi have a bitter attitude about life? Describe her relationship with Ezinma.

All her children dying; Ekwefi treats Ezinma as an equal. Signup and view all the answers

What is an ogbanje? How can humans defeat an obanje's wickedness?

An ogbanje is a changeling; they can be defeated with a stone. Signup and view all the answers

Who are the judges in the legal case in Chapter 10, and how do they behave?

Egwugwu; they believe in patriarchy but also believe who should be protected. Signup and view all the answers

Do the people of Umuofia know what is behind the egwugwu masks? Provide evidence.

No, women are not allowed inside the building; they can help around outside but not inside. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you think Achebe included Ekwefi's folktale?

To show how they have a story for why everything is the way it is. Signup and view all the answers

What announcement does Chielo, the priestess, make? Where does she take Ezinma?

The Oracle wants to see Ezinma; she takes her to nine villages and then the cave of Agbala. Signup and view all the answers

How does Okonkwo react when the priestess first makes her announcement?

He tells his wife to let her take their daughter away but then possibly follows her. Signup and view all the answers

What does the priestess do with Ezinma after emerging from the cave?

Takes her on her back and brings her back to the village to put her to bed. Signup and view all the answers

What joyous ceremony takes place the day after the return from the cave?

A betrothal/wedding ceremony. Signup and view all the answers

What sorrowful news does the drum announce?

The death of a member of their village, the oldest of the villages. Signup and view all the answers

What terrible accident occurs at the funeral and what happens to Okonkwo's family as a result?

His gun explodes and kills one of the dead man's sons; they have to flee. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Achebe choose to end Part One the way he did?

They all have guns and the shooting of guns was part of the ritual. Signup and view all the answers

According to Achebe, how does Okonkwo feel about his new life?

He feels bad for himself; it's like an old man learning to write with his left hand. Signup and view all the answers

What is the point of Uchendu's story about a kite who takes a duckling and a chick?

The white men came in and took it over. Signup and view all the answers

What does Obierika bring with him on his visit to Okonkwo? Why does he not want Okonkwo to thank him?

Cowry shells; he was a good friend and didn't want thanks. Signup and view all the answers

What disaster happens to the Abame clan?

White people came and shot all the people. Signup and view all the answers

What step does Nwoye take concerning the missionaries?

He might have converted due to the comforts they offer; he is affected by their treatment. Signup and view all the answers

What is Uchendu's reason for giving the missionaries part of the Evil Forest, and what is the result?

They think they will die in four days but turns out they don't. Signup and view all the answers

How do you interpret Okonkwo's thought, 'Living fire begets cold, impotent ash.'?

Fire is life; legacy is strong but can be extinguished before passing on. Signup and view all the answers

State one way the European missionaries understand Ibo culture and one way the Ibo misunderstand the Europeans.

Missionaries understand some rituals; Ibo misunderstand the concept of the Trinity. Signup and view all the answers

What role did outcasts play in bringing Christianity to Ibo land?

Outcasts are shunned, and Christianity offers them acceptance. Signup and view all the answers

On two occasions, converts actively threaten the religious traditions in Mbanta. What are the occasions?

Twins and the Evil Forest. Signup and view all the answers

What unfortunate event happens to the Christians during the week before Easter?

Women are whipped when collecting rocks, red mud, and water. Signup and view all the answers

Why is there no punishment in Ibo law for killing a python? Why could the clan not kill the converts?

Killing a python brings illness; some converts are their own people. Signup and view all the answers

How has Umofia changed during Okonkwo's exile? Give three specific examples.

Missionaries change their culture; introducing government, death penalties, and education. Signup and view all the answers

How is Mr. Smith different from Mr. Brown?

Mr. Brown was friendly, while Mr. Smith was not. Signup and view all the answers

How does Enoch spark a conflict in Umofia? What does the clan do about it?

He unmasks an Egwugwu and kills an ancestral spirit; chaos ensues. Signup and view all the answers

According to Obierika, why does he feel the clan is falling apart?

The church is ripping them apart and changing their social structure. Signup and view all the answers

How does Okeke, Mr. Smith's interpreter, show wisdom in dealing with the leaders of Umuofia?

He treats them with respect; his wisdom stems from understanding cultural nuances. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you think the guards and messengers treat the men of Umuofia so badly?

To show dominance; they imprison them and impose fines. Signup and view all the answers

In what way do the court messengers take money dishonestly from Umuofia?

They raise the fine from 200 to 250 cowry shells. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of person do you think the District Commissioner is?

I think he is disrespectful and trying to take advantage of the native people. Signup and view all the answers

At the end of Chapter 24, what are Okonkwo's clansmen referring to when they ask, 'Why did he do it?'

They refer to Okonkwo killing the speaker; he tried to take matters into his own hands. Signup and view all the answers

In the last paragraph of the novel, whose point of view is shown?

The Europeans' point of view; they view Africans as uncivilized. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Characters and Relationships

Okonkwo: Respected village leader, known for his wrestling achievement, specifically beating the great wrestler Amalize the Cat.
Unoka: Okonkwo's father, characterized as lazy and indebted, contrasting sharply with Okonkwo's hard-working nature.
Nwoye: Okonkwo's son, suffers from a lack of paternal affection, developing a close friendship with Ikemefuna.
Ikemefuna: A boy taken in by Okonkwo’s family after a murder, unaware of his impending fate.

Cultural Practices and Beliefs

Week of Peace: A period of harmony before harvest when violence is forbidden; Okonkwo's violation leads to clan repercussions.
Proverbs: Highly valued in Igbo culture; serve as a method of communication to convey wisdom and important truths.
Chi: Represents a personal spirit or god, linking individual effort with success; the proverb indicates that personal will aligns with divine endorsement.
Ogbanje: Belief in a changeling child that dies and returns, indicating deeper cultural beliefs about life and death in Igbo society.

Roles of Women: Female characters, like Ekwefi and Ezinma, portray varied dynamics, often being equal yet subordinate to men like Okonkwo; Okonkwo’s strict views lead to emotional distance from his children.
Masculinity: Okonkwo’s extreme views on masculinity emphasize strength, stoicism, and a rejection of emotions, displaying societal expectations.

Clashes and Changes

Impact of Colonialism: The arrival of missionaries leads to fractures in traditional culture; outcasts find acceptance in Christianity, shifting social dynamics.
Cultural Misunderstanding: Both Igbo and Europeans misinterpret each other's customs and beliefs, leading to conflict.
Abame Clan Tragedy: A violent response to the arrival of white settlers that highlights colonial consequences.

Major Themes

Fear and its Consequences: Okonkwo's life is dominated by a fear of weakness, prompting destructive actions that alienate him from his family and community.
Tradition vs. Change: Changing societal norms and external influences challenge traditional Igbo lifestyles, causing significant transformations in Umuofia.

Significant Events

Festival of New Yam: An important celebration and community event marked by cultural traditions where Okonkwo feels disconnected.
Funeral Accident: An explosion during a funeral stems from a blend of traditional practices and introduced technology, resulting in Okonkwo’s exile.
Final Conflict: Okonkwo’s drastic reaction to the colonial authority leads to his tragic end; his actions reflect the dissolution of cultural identity.

Reflections on Society

Restoration of Authority: Leaders in Umuofia grapple with the consequences of colonial influence and seek to balance traditional cultural values with new realities.
Literary Tone: Achebe's narrative approach starts to shift the perspective towards the European view at the end, underscoring their misunderstanding and condescension towards Africans.

Conclusion

Cultural Misrepresentation: The novel highlights the complexities of Igbo society while critiquing European perceptions; it remains a powerful representation of colonial impact and cultural identity.

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Dive deep into Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart' with this reading guide quiz. Explore key themes, character comparisons, and pivotal accomplishments that shape Okonkwo’s journey. Test your understanding of the narrative and its cultural significance.