Hello everyone. First off, while reading "Things Fall Apart," I began to realize that Achebe utilizes an abundance of animalistic qualities when descirbing the characters in the book. For instance, there is "Amalinze the Cat"(3), "Okonkwo was as slippery as a fish in water"(3) and "...he did pounce on people quite often"(4). There are also many refrences to the environment: "...his [Unoka's] happiest moments were the two or three moons after the harvest"(4) and "...Okonkwo's fame had grown like a bush-fire"(3). This all helps to build the aura of the African environment as one with a variety of animals and greens everywhere. Achebe, I believe, does this to create a connection between the characters and their environment--an idea of being one with the earth. It just shows how prominent, as well as influential, the African surroundings are to the text, and the story as a whole--it helps the reader see the characters in a different light: rather than just humans, they can also be symbolized by different kinds of animals, which can be quite helpful. I began to view Okonkwo as quite an agressive animal, since he is described as a rough and tough kind of guy, while his father, Unoka is seen as more of a peaceful animal--one that just hangs around, not bothering anyone and not taking part in anything "viewed by others" as possibly making a change, but simply existing for the sake of enjoying and living life. All in all, I just found Achebe's techniques to be quite interesting and relatable to the African environment--it simply provides the reader with a great journey, as well as a better grasp at who the characters are. Do any of you guys find there to be a greater meaning to Achebe's refrence to the environment, especially when speaking of the characters or do you have a completely different idea? I was also wondering if any of you came upon similar techniques that were symbolic in some way, that were utilized for a great majority of the text? Thanks :)
Hello again. Another topic of interest that I found in this book was Okonkwo's absolute loathing for his father, Unoka. Sure, I can comprehend the fact that he has learned from what appears to be his father's "mistake"--laziness-- but his father does not seem all that bad of a person to me. Unoka seemed like a man who loved to live in the moment, enjoying the present and not stressing the future. He is not a saver, but rather a spender, which I interpreted through Achebe writing, "If any money came his way, and it seldom did, he immediately bought gourds of palm-wine, called round his neighbors and made merry"(4) and also that he would say, "whenever he saw a dead man's mouth he saw the folly of not eating what one had in one's lifetime" (4). From these lines, I understood that Unoka, in his younger years, enjoyed making his friends happy--he did not care about saving his money or using it for himself, but rather cared about the elation he would bring others. He did not want to have regrets of things that he did not get to experience. He saw no point in saving money--you are living life now, so why not take pleasure in every moment. I suppose that the catalyst for Unoka's later state of existence can only be explained by his spending habits, or his lack of "responsibility" with money. However, this is no reason for Okonkwo to despise his father. After all, although Unoka was a "lazy" spender, he was altogether a kind man who had "loved it all"(5)--everything about life. Okonkwo, to me, is not that great of a person--perhaps even worse than his father was viewed. For one, he is violent-- "rul[ing] his household with fear" (13), having a dreadful temper. He is violent towards his son Nwoye, because he feels that he has “Incipient laziness"(13). At this moment, we can see Achebe coming in, creating an antagonistic view of Okonkwo, while serving positive feelings towards Nwoye, when he follows the previous quote, by saying "At any rate, that was how it looked to his father"(13), hinting at Okonkwo's mind--how it is simply filled with a hate for "everything that his father Unoka had loved" (13) and everything that his father was perceived as. His mind is tainted: any slight action that may annoy him a bit, causes him to feel a great amount of anger and aggression. It’s ironic, because Okonkwo does not want to be a "failure" like his father, when it comes to money and power, but he is essentially losing something in the process, which his father had, and that is happiness, joy, and peace—not being an aggressive “war waging” kind of man. His son, Nwoye will also probably end up disliking his father as well, which then goes on to create a cycle. They are both incomplete as people--they are both lacking positive characteristics, but to me, I find Okonkwo to be lacking more morally than Unoka. Do you feel sympathetic towards/side with Okonkwo, Unoka, or none of them? Do you feel that the writer attempts to side with/promote one character in a positive light while another in a negative? Any other thoughts? Thanks.
Hi guys. Okay--I have a question: On page 48, the conversation between Ekwefi and "the woman."
Achebe writes: "'Your chi is very much awake, my friend. And how is my daughter, Ezinma?' 'She has been very well for some time now. Perhaps she has come to stay.' 'I think she has. How old is she now?' 'She is about ten years old.' 'I think she will stay. They usually stay if they do not die before the age of six.' 'I pray she stays,' said Ekwefi with a heavy sigh'" (48).
I am not sure what they are speaking of--is it just some kind of sickness that all children are at risk for or is there something wrong with Ezinma's health specifically? GENDER INEQUALITY: Something that I have noticed from the start of the book, and have been keeping track of, is the gender inequality that takes place. Okonkwo clearly believes the male gender to be far more superior to the female. One example: “Without looking at the man Okonkwo had said: ‘This meeting is for men.’ The man who had contradicted him had no titles. That was why he had called him a woman” (26). Another example: “His mother and sisters worked hard enough, but they grew women’s crops, like coco-yams, beans and cassava. Yam, the king of crops, was a man’s crops” (23). POSSIBLE SPOILER (chapter 7) OKONKWO & IKEMEFUNA: Moving onto another subject that I wanted to discuss, Ikemefuna and Okonkwo's relationship. The writer states how Okonkwo was fond of Ikemefuna (page 28), and Ikemefuna grows fond of the family as well,even considering Okonkwo his father. Ogbuefi Ezeudu later goes on to tell Okonkwo that Ikemefuna will be killed and that Okonkwo should not be involved, since Ikemefuna considers Okonkwo his father. I did not expect him to change Okonkwo’s mind about being involved in the killing, since Okonkwo has "never showed any emotion openly, unless it be the emotion of anger" (28), as Achebe stated. Towards the end of chapter seven, Ikemefuna is returning home, when he is suddenly attacked with a machete, and then goes on to “cry, 'My father, they have killed me!' as he ran towards him" (61), and then suddenly is attacked by Okonkwo who does not want to be "thought weak" (61). For some reason, although it was expected, it was still shocking to me. Okonkwo’s thought process/reasoning is absolutely ridiculous and cold-hearted. This poor boy was walking home, thinking of how he would tell his mother of the great care Okonkwo took of him, only to be betrayed by him moments later. This book is getting scary—a great relationship appeared to have been created between the two, only for it to be thrown away in a second, because Okonkwo is not the kind of person who seems to care about anyone but himself and his reputation as a “man.” OKONKWO & NWOYE: Also, it is interesting to see Nwoye’s reaction to his father, in general. After Ikemefuna is killed--and Nwoye is well aware of it—Achebe writes of how Nwoye had felt a “chill” like one after “pass[ing] an evil spirit” when the event with the twins “thrown away in the forest” (62) had taken place, and that he now felt that same chill when his father arrived home after the killing. These few lines symbolize the image that Nwoye has of his father, and that is of someone murderous and evil--which is accurate. I am curious as to what your ideas/responses to all of these topics/situations that have taken place are. Thanks a lot.
Hey guys. To Marrisa, I also noticed Achebe's constant use of animalistic descriptions for the characters in Things Fall Apart. I believe one of the effects of the author's technique is to show that these people are "uncivilized". To show that these people are "uncivilized", Achebe compares them to animals. He writes, "He threw his head down and gnashed his teeth, and allowed a murmur of suppressed anger to sweep the crowd” (11). The author uses description, such as “gnashed his teeth” and “threw his head down”, to illustrate an image of the characters acting like vicious animals. Achebe also exemplifies how “uncivilized” the people are by showing that they are not modernized. On page 38, Achebe writes, “In fact he had not killed a rat with a gun”. The author shows Okonkwo’s inability to use a gun, a tool used in the modern world. I also noticed the gender roles of this society, and gender roles, for the most part, go hand in hand with the importance of pride. Achebe shows how Okonkwo values his pride with his shame for his lazy father and desire to have the ideal family and lifestyle. Okonkwo drives his son to be a man, such as on page 33, Achebe writes, “Inwardly Okonkwo knew that the boys were still too young to understand fully the difficult art of preparing seedyams…Yam stood for manliness…Okonkwo wanted his son to be a great farmer and a great man.” However, I think Okonkwo’s pride will lead a common theme of downfall, such as Creon in “Antigone”, thus the title, Things Fall Apart.
Hey, Malisa here. I'm really enjoying the book so far, and I have to say that I most definitely agree with what Angela was saying. Chinua Achebe uses a lot of comparisons between animals and humans to show them as uncivilized people; same with the inability to use a modern tool such as a gun. However, by them, I'm referring to specifically only the tribe that Okonkwo is a part of. Near the end of the first third of the book, a friend mentions that "Okonkwo and I were talking about Abame and Aninta, where titled men climb trees and pound foo-foo for their wives." (73) This shows that while Okonkwo's tribe holds the ideas of certain positions for each sex high, other tribes have moved on, moving closer to 'civilization,' as one could say. Also, while I'm not certain, in response to Marrisa's question about Ezinma and the sickness, I thought it was most likely malaria; there's plenty of mosquitoes, and people are much more susceptible to malaria at a younger age.
While reading “Things Fall Apart,” I too noticed that there are numerous animalistic references and many of these references are geared towards Okonkwo and the importance of putting on the façade of a strong and physically capable man. I agree with Marrisa because there are many animalistic and environmental references on pages 3 and 4 where Achebe comments on how Okonkwo’s “fame had grown like a bush-fire in the harmattan” (3), he “pounce(s) on people quite often” (4) and also, “when he walked, his heels hardly touched the ground.” I feel that all of these qualities describe one of the most powerful and dominate animals in many African safaris- the cheetah. Okonkwo moves quickly and “pounces” on his prey or anyone he becomes angry with in order to obtain power and to not be viewed as a weak individual. Achebe makes these connections amongst humans and animals to express how the strongest will prevail and the weak usually fail. I also feel that Okonkwo fears being seen as weak because it connects him to his father, Unoka. Okonkwo, a strong and wealthy man has three wives, many kids, a huge and prosperous farm, and he is well-known and greatly feared by many other tribes. Where as his father, Unoka, was a lazy, poor, debtor, who never made a name for himself and eventually was left to die in the Evil Forest. I believe that Achebe makes Unoka and Okonkwo two very different characters because it shows how strongly Okonkwo wanted to make a better life for himself and to become a fierce competitor in his tribe. Although Okonkwo has a great desire to be seen as the dominate force in many aspects of his life such as “throwing Amalinze the Cat” (3) and ruling “his household with a heavy hand” (13), I think that his unpredictable temper could lead to his biggest downfall. Okonkwo’s tough mentality caused him to constantly nag and beat his son, Nwoye, because he thought his son was very lazy. I think Achebe uses these elements as a way to foreshadow Okonwo’s relationship with Nwoye as one that will eventually turn out to be like the relationship Okonkwo had with his father. I predict that Nwoye will ultimately resent his father for the violent ways in which he treats him and especially the methods he uses against many of his wives. For instance, Okonkwo shot a loaded gun at his second wife because she “murmured something about guns that never shot” (38-39). Okonkwo resented his father for his lack of strength, however, I predict that Okonkwo’s family, especially Nwoye will ultimately resent him for his desire to have too much of a strong hold in their lives.
I also noticed the continued use of dehumanization throughout part one of the novel. The people are often treated or given animal-like qualities. Achebe often uses terms such as "roared" to get his points across. One other thing i realized is that women basically don't have many rights at all. They get beaten if they do things wrong and they rarely ask any questions. They keep everything inside, in fear of getting beaten for speaking up. It was said that, "No woman ever asked questions about the most powerful and most secret cult in the clan."(88) I really found it interesting how much the people depend on each God. After the accidental death by Okonkwo, he had to leave the land and only return in seven years. That was because he murdered a female. It really showed how they are not used to using technology that would be easy used in today's times. I wanted to know what would have happened if he had killed a male. Would he had ever been able to come back? i find the rules of the clans very difficult to keep track of, but very interesting to learn about as well. I am very eager to know the future of Okonkwo since he is forced to leave the clan. Will people try to locate him, breaking the rules, or will he just be forgotten until his return in seven years?
I really liked the character Ikemefuna. He was ripped away from his family and thrown into another because of what a relative did. He worked as hard as he could and eventually felt at home. I was very surprised that Okonkwo actually was the one to give him the last blow and kill him. It started to eat him up inside but eventually he didn't care. This ties into the strange rules of the clan. I am really enjoying seeing how different cultures differ from that of our own.
Hello all =]. Taylor here. The numerous references to animals and nature in the book discussed previously, along with Angel's discussion of Okonkwo's pride made something click in my mind. I see Okonkwo as a proud, masculine male lion. He has three wives, which wasn't uncommon to his community, as the number of female lions usually outnumber males in packs. Also, I found it to be thought-provoking that female lions do the hunting, not the males. The males use their roar and large manes to intimidate and scare predators, just as Okonkwo uses his physical strength and harsh demeanor to control his family to hold such a high status in his community, and doesn't treat his wives as equals. As Okonkwo was talking to Ezeani, priest of the earth goddess (again, a reference to nature), after Okonkwo beat his wife during the Week of Peace, Ezaeni scolds, "'We live in peace with our fellows to honor our great goddess of the earth without whose blessings our crops will not grow. You have committed a great evil....You wife was at fault..."(30) The priest doesn't condemn Okonkwo for beating his wife, but for beating her during a period of time that called for complete peace in the tribe. As of the primitive status of the tribe compared to its more civilized neighbors, perhaps the title Things Fall Apart show how this sexist community is destined to either self-destruct somehow, or to slowly evolve into a more civil home.
Wow, ok, a lot of comments and ideas to respond to.
So I think everyone pretty much agrees on seeing the animalistic qualities in this book. Marrisa said that doing this "helps to build the aura of the African envrionment as one with a variety of animals and greens everywhere." This is true, and another thing that Achebe does is add in the traditional African words. After each word, he tells us what they mean. But why doesn't he just leave them out? Marrisa's point answers that. And he also includes a glossary in the back for reference. He does this all throughout the first part of the book. Another thing that Achebe does is constantly refer to the kola-nut and the palm wine. Marrisa point can also explain this, that he does this to connect the characters to their environment. But the way I see it, Achebe does this more to connect the readers' perceptions to what typical African culture is. When I think Africa, I think safari, lions, untamed, bright colors on dark skin, desert, and so on. Achebe knows this and that is why he satifies our stereotype to create irony later on in the book.
To Marrissa's second comment about Okonkwo's personality vs. his father's. I didn't get such a great impression of Unoka as you might have. To me, not being able to provide for one's family does not justify Unoka's "happiness, joy, and peace." He was "lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow" (4). To me, that's a fine attitude to have on vacation, but Unoka was like that his whole life which lead to his early death, and not being able to be buried.
As to Okonkwo, I don't sympathize with him either. I feel that Achebe makes us want to sympathize with Okonkwo's family, (especially Ikemefuna), the receivers of his uncontrollable anger. When Achebe describes his family, some form of pathos is involved. Ikemefuna's "sad story" (12), Okonkwo's children living "in perpetual fear of his fiery temper" (13), and even when Okonkwo attempts to shoot one of his wives. Also, when Ikemefuna died, Nwoye rememers the last time he felt the way he did. It was when two twins died. He heard "an infant crying in the forest" (61) which is a parallel to Ikemefuna's death. Achebe suggests Ikemefuna's innocence in his death as well. The reader tends to always empathize with Oknonkwo's family. This is because Okonkwo hasn't shown any emotion ("weakness") which makes him stiff, and "un-sympathizable," if that's even a word, which it probably isn't.
I wanted to address Okonkwo's manliness, and his reasons for doing so. So the things that he valued as being a man were "achievement" (8), having many wives and children, "thirst for blood" (11), and seed yams, to name a few. Now, anything that a woman would do is a weakness, such as cooking, crying, telling stories without blood, and even the "idleness." Showing affection and emotion was "a sign of weakness" (28). While reading this book, I have to remember that I am an American, and what we may think is outrageous (beating of wives) is perfectly normal and acceptable to them. I think Achebe is aware of this, but I'm not sure yet how he plans to use it. Any ideas of the connection between reader and writer?
I began to notice Okonkwo's personal struggle in chapter eight. He asked himself, "How can a man who has killed five men in battle fall to pieces because he has added a boy to their number?" (65). Okonkwo has, for all this time, tried to be manly, and provide for his family. Because his father's life turned out all wrong, he tried to do the very opposite, thinking it would be right. But here, he encounters a personal struggle between mind and heart. His mind is telling him to be a man but his heart wants to break down and let some emotion show. I see Okonkwo as a good man masked by pride and the desire to do good (provide for family etc.) in a bad (aggressive, proud) way. This struggle is where I see that "Things Fall Apart" as Angel mentioned.
Ok, I wanted to bring up again the difference in culture between the characters in the story, and well, today's modern day Americans. On page 72, Achebe writes about when the suitors came to talk with Obierika about giving his daughter away for marriage. He writes, "As the men drank, they talked about everything except the thing for which they had gathered. It was only after the pot had been emptied that the suitor's father cleared his voice and announced the object of their visit." This seems extremely different to me than what I would do. It shows a contrast to today's fast-paced life where we even talk in short-cuts to get to the point. For example, I don't even like talking on the phone anymore, as it requires a greeting and good-bye. I am a fan of texting, where no real conversation takes place. Achebe is showing me a different side of his characters. I can see that they are more civilized that I am, an ironic thought coming in to read this novel.
Achebe does it again on the opposite page where he has his characters talk about the neighboring cities. Okonkwo and Obierika were talking about Abame and Aninta where "their customs are upside-down. They do not decide bride-price as [they] do, with sticks. They haggle and bargain as if they were buying a goat or a cow in the market" (73). This once again shows the clashing of cultures, this time, within their own country!
A question: Why does Okonkwo wish that Ezinma were a boy? I don't see any masculine qualities in her. She seems sweet and caring, like daddy's little girl. Why would Okonkwo want her personality to be a boy's?
Howdy folks, Matt here. I have noticed that one of the most prominent and reoccurring topics of discussion about this third of the book is the pervasiveness of sexism/ gender inequality within this tribal community. Besides the numerous instances of spousal abuse, child abuse, and sexist remarks made throughout this portion of the book, I find the practice of polygamy demonstrated in this tribe to embody the inequality theme. In this tribe, a man is often shown having multiple wives, but you would never see a wife having multiple husbands. This demonstrates to me how this culture views women not as human beings, but as items, or even collectibles. They are shown as something that can be collected, obtained, bought, and replaced at will. They can (usually) be beaten without punishment, and in actuality this custom is encouraged in the community as a way for the man of the house to assert his leadership role and "maintain order" in his house. This can be translated almost identically to view the relationship between adults and children in this society. I see one of the major themes of this portion of the novel as being the theme of INEQUALITY, more specifically, the kind of inequality that exists without any substantial rationale behind it. When I noticed the strong inequality theme and the fleeting, almost joking mention of "white" people, and took into account the title of the book (Things Fall Apart, which I highly doubt anyone would be so dense as to overlook or forget), I could not help but take it as foreshadowing. We will see what develops in later portions in the book.
One question I had to ask was: "ARE WE EVEN SUPPOSED TO LIKE THE MAIN CHARACTER, OKONKWO?"
True, his reasons regarding his father for being strict and such a hard worker seem to be noble. At times, I find myself almost sympathizing with him. However, all too often I find myself reading the book in disgust at things he says or does. Shooting his wife. Beating his family. Blatantly disregarding his tribe's laws. Murdering his own "foster child". All in the name of trying to build up his reputation and erase the past of his father? Seems a little too harsh for me. How does everyone else view Okonkwo?
Matt, Matt, Matt...I could not agree more with your comments about this part of Things Fall Apart! I have also noticed the huge difference between the way men and women are treated within Umuofia and the surrounding villages. As much as i despice the mistreatment of women and children, sadly that is still the case in many places around the world.
One thing i noticed that really bothered me was that a man with no title in the community was called an "agbala", which is another word for woman. This use of the word implies that women are seen as inferior to men. Another thing I noticed was that the only reason Okonkwo was reprimanded for shooting at his wife was because it was the "Week of Peace". Had it been any other week, it would have been fine for Okonkwo to have beaten his wife.
A few times throughout the reading, Okonkwo has said that he wishes that Ezinma was a man. Okonkwo has aknowledged his daughter's intelligence and skills but is not proud of her or cannot show his pride beacuse she is a female. As a feminist, it does bother me a bit whenever I read about the way women are treated (ie. having to share a husband, basically being sold off to a suitor who gives enough palm wine, being beaten by the husand, and overall just having to be submissive).
In response to your question about how we feel about Okonkwo, I must admit that it's a difficult one to answer.
Okonkwo may be mean, cold-hearted stubborn, and at times too proud, but you have to aknowledge the fact that this is a man who started off at the bottom beacuse of his father's laziness, and managed to work his way to the top. He is simply an ambitious man who only wanted to create a better life for his family t hat he never had when his father was around. The man may be mean, but he does care for his children, as clearly seen in the scene where Ezinma was taken away by Chielo to see the Oracles of the Hills and Caves. Okonkwo was worried about his daughter and did not want to show it but in the end went to the cave to look out for her and Ekwefi. On page 112( the 5th paragraph) it is obvious how much Okonkwo does care abut his children.
As for how he could do certain things such as go ahead and kill Ikemefuna: it may seem cold-hearted and barbaric, but we need to understand that these customs are all part of the Umuofian tradition. Okonkwo did not want to kill his step-son but had to in order to keep with customs and retain his title within the community.
Towards the end of the first part I definitly sympathized with Okonkwo's character because he had not meant to kill Ezeudu's son, but still had to flee the community with his family. Overall, Okonkwo may not be the best man in terms of compasiona nd heart, but his strength and determination overshadow that (at least in my opinion).
In the start of the novel, Things Fall Apart, the story introduces Okonkwo, a strong, powerful, young and well-accomplished man in the village, who described in the story has became famous for “solid personal achievements” which can be interpreted as how he would be solely recognized for his own accolades to himself not ones that profit the village. The author showcases the protagonist as a fearless and intimidating since he is known throughout villages across the land. However, he then mentions Okonkwo’s fears and disdain on pg.13: “Okonkwo was not a cruel man but his whole life was ruled by fear, the fear of failure and weakness”(13). When throughout the story, he would fear himself possessing any trait of his father, Unoka who possesses human traits such as vice to snuff and sloth, his pacifist ways, his love of music, and love for his family and especially an aura of benevolence towards his neighbors that would be translated to weakness among a belligerent and male dominated society. Okonkwo would display this personality throughout the eight chapters, especially on p.61 when he kills, the young lad, Ikemefuna, surprisingly when Okonkwo was very pleased by his presence in his life: “Dazed with fear, Okonkwo drew his machete and cut him. He was afraid of being thought weak.” This whole situation would be interpreted as to what lengths Okonkwo will go to preserve his image, as a warrior and as a man to his clansmen.
The characterizing traits that Okonkwo possesses in the story would be Appropriately summarized in the start of Chapter 4, (Page 26) when the old man spoke about Okonkwo artfully through proverbs: “Looking at the kings mouth...one would think he never sucked at his mother’s breast”(26). This quote would be significant to the story seeing that the reader more implications to the character of Okonkwo. For example, one could say that in the minds of his people he would seen as a “mighty example of a strong leader” one that is seasoned in the art and practice of war and bloodshed, one who is known for his powerful stature and dominant presence that he would never be known to have had a childhood, a time of innocence in his life, when he would know his mother’s love to him, not ever knowing hardships, grief and embarrassment. This whole quote can also hint on the society that has made him this way. The land that has supported him can be the one that has deprived him of innocence and the love of others.
Also, notice on pg.64, When Okonkwo searches for his snuff bottle in the deep bag. The author would narrate this part of the story only to accentuate the meaning in it: How Okonkwo is slowly progressing to portray his father’s habits thus grow more nervous of his future as well as his position in the village.
Yo, its Mario. Well, it seems that the whole animal references and sexism have been beaten into the ground thus far, and I will leave my thoughts on those things until the end.
The first thing that I noticed while reading "Things Fall Apart" was the story. No, keep reading and it will be a little deeper than I am sure most of you are assuming from me. What I meant was, this story takes place in Africa in sometime that does not seem to be very present day, however the story itself is. I mean, we have a main character with a very modern day problem: resentment of his father. I thought that it was pretty neat to see that someone else in a completely different world can have a similar problem and deal with it the same way, be it savage as it is. I mean, my father was not a great man, and I know that I never want to repeat his mistakes. Okonkwo hated his father, and refused to be passive at all because that was how his father was, and his father, in his eyes, was a failure. Although, it is pretty calming to know a problem like this is universal, at the same time a little disturbing, but still, nice to know others out there are having the same problem. (I'll try to cut it out with the run on sentences, really.)
Well, lets see what can I say about the sexism and animal references that hasn't been said already? Hm, well, they do provide a nice reprieve from the story. I don't know, it seems all has been said that can be on those matters.
Anyways, to try and keep this coherent, does anyone else think that the problems presented in "Things Fall Apart" are universal? I'm interested in seeing if anyone else saw as I did.
Hey guys, it's Alinne! I'd like to first start off by giving my insights and then answering some of our questions...
I did some research on Chinua Achebe's history and I was excited to learn that the people's names and the different clans of Umuofia were actual places in his motherland. He infused his heritage in the story, which gave it more meaning.
The character that I least like, and almost hate, is Okonkwo! It's not because he beats his wives or is so violent and sexist (that is normal in their world), but because he has a fear of being portrayed as a woman (which, I know from experience that their is absolutely NOTHING wrong with that; it's actually very awesome!!) His fear is driving him to insanity, making him do extremes, even break the clan's rules. I detest entirely that Okonkwo does not show feelings. How honest is a man if he has to hide what is the most respected aspect of a human?Achebe makes him out to be such an inhuman character that we can't help but hope that a tragic event happens in his life. I lost my respect for Okonkwo's character when he took part in killing his adopted son, Ikemefuna. Not only did Ikemefuna respond to Okonkwo as a father, but he helped in the growth of Okonkwo's eldest son Nwoye. One of the elders specially told Okonkwo to NOT help kill Ikemefuna, and what did Okonkwo do? He helped kill him! To me, that is not a sign of a "man" but the epitome of a coward. I hoped that Okonkwo suffered more for killing a person he grow to like.
As much as I do not like how Achebe incorporates all those different language words in the book, it sets the atmosphere for the book, and really helps us get into the "Umuofia Mode" as I call it. =)
1. Why is it that one of Okonkwo's wife is always referred to "Nwoye's mother?"
2. It sounds silly to ask, but considering Achebe incorporates his own past experiences in the book, does a place like Umuofia really exist? I can never image it existing...
And to answer the questions: To Marrissa: I feel NO sympathy for Okonkwo! I do realize he built his reputation from scratch, but the way I see it, any person could have done that. I do not see him as any better than any other character in the book; in fact, i see him in a negative light. Isn't Okonkwo the only character in the book that continuously beats his wives? And Okonkwo's character is so incredibly sexist. I really detest how he only shows angry feelings towards people. I tend to believe that people's good qualities usually out way their bad characteristics, but with Olonkwo, it doesn't. Whenever he speaks in the book, I feel that he's shouting at the top of his lungs to get his point across, and I just want to get into the book and tell him to SHUT UP; THE CHARACTERS ARE NOT DEAF! (LOL) I believe that the author chooses to do this for some irony at the end of the book... As for Unoka, Okonkwo's father, I feel somewhat sympathetic towards him. Of course, he couldn't maintain a family, and he was poor, lazy, and didn't try, but the fact that he was happy, caring, and had a good humor (he did find humor when that man came to ask him for the money he owed him!), proves that unlike his son, he did have good qualities. The author gives Unoka qualities and doesn't care to save any for Okonkwo, because he wants to emphasize Okonkwo's inhuman character.
To Kris10: Okonkwo did not murder a female. The book says on page 124: "In the center of the crowd a boy lay in a cast... Okonkwo's gun had exploded and a piece of iron had pierced the boy's heart... The crime was of two kinds, male and female. Okonkwo had committed the female, because it had been inadvertent. He could return to the clan after seven years." This means that Okonkwo killed a boy of 16, and because he did it by accident he would have to leave the clan and return in seven years. Later, Achebe writes that if he had committed a male crime, which would mean that if he killed a man on purpose he would leave the clan and never be able to return.
To Katie: I also had the question of why Okonkwo wanted Ezinma to be a man. What I came to the conclusion of was that it wasn't so much that he didn't love his daughter, but he was disappointed in his son Nwoye's character. He wanted Nwoye, his eldest, to be like him. But instead he saw laziness in Nwoye and perceived him to be like a woman. On the other hand, Ezinma was seen as the perfect child. She was obedient, did her duties, and more, without complaining, was loved by many, and had beauty. To Okonkwo, Ezinma should have been a boy because she would not have embarrassed her father as much as Nwoye was; she would have lived up to his expectations of a "man." I believe Achebe uses the beating of wives, and other elements, to emphasize difference in our society and the clan's lives. I found it greatly insulting that the clan "throws away" twins, while in reality we (Americans) desire them. This, among other absurd rules of the clan, adds to the savageness of the clan.
And to Matt: I do NOT like the main character, so I'm hoping we're not intended to! Achebe describes him in such inhuman and exaggerated, mean characteristics that if anyone out there possibly likes Okonkwo he either is from Okonkwo's clan or is sexist.
Hi everyone. First of all I want to discuss Okonkwo in relation to the village traditions. Okonkwo is made out to be a powerful and controlling man yet he, as well as his fellow villagers, are all subject to tradition, for example the gods and the value of masculinity. In a way Okonkwo can actually be seen as weak due to his compliance and submission to tradition. This is ironic because Okonkwo hates weakness and to combat weakness he clings to tradition, yet by doing so he is also submitting himself to the power of tradition.
Now to respond to Matt's question of whether or not we as readers are supposed to like Okonkwo. It's obvious that Okonkwo is not the best example of a protagonist (if you even view him as a protagonist at all). Okonkwo has character flaws such as a quick temper and an abusive, domineering nature. At the same time we must take into account that he is only following the culture of that setting and that his father inadvertently shaped his personality. When it is mentioned that Okonkwo inwardly felt affection towards Ikemefuna and Ezinma, it is obvious that deep down he really is a caring man who is simply subject to the tradition. In order to uphold the traditional image of masculinity he must suppress these emotions. He is simply a man caught between tradition along with a fear of failure and his true emotions. Ultimately, setting aside Okonkwo's flaws that were created by uncontrollable factors like culture and a poor upbringing, I just see him as man who was trying to maintain his honor and to not make the same mistakes that his father did.
To answer Alinne's first question, Nwoye is a male and as we have seen there are clear gender roles. Regardless of age, Nwoye is considered superior to his mother simply because he is a male. Perhaps Nwoye's mother is referred to as "Nwoye's mother" rather than by her name because of such gender roles. Or perhaps she is referred to in this way simply because Nwoye is a more prevalent character in the novel than the mother; therefore it is easier for the reader to know exactly who the author is referring to.
So I thought that Mario brought up a very good point about (what seems to be) the main problem of the story being so similar to today's problems. As I keep looking throughout the text, though I tihnk the "irony" that katie may be talking about will be if we realize that this whole African culture was actually supposed to represent us. This may be a huge assumption to make form the begginning of the book,however I think that all of these animal qualities, the different lanuage, the sexist ways, maybe they all somehow display parts of our society in today's world.
I am also finding it ironic that Okonkwo rules his house with such "a heavy hand" (13) because after himself having such a hate for his father, one would assume that Okonkwo would not want his family to hate him as muh as he had hated his father. The irony here is that perhaps by beating his son to make him less like his father, Okonkwo is actually becoming more like his father at the same time.
One more comment. Could the night possibly come back to be a further theme of the book? It seemed as though the darkness is an omniscent prescence, that changes the behaviour of the tribes completely. Instead of playing in the moonlight, no one is outside (10) and "a snake was never called by its name at night, because it wouold hear. It was called a string." (9)It seems as tough the fear of the dark by these people is also somewhat ironic due to the "animal- like" manor in which he described them before. It is probably good to note here that although he does give them animal qualities, the human ones are still present, such as the common one of being scared of the dark, lets face it no other animal is scared of the dark. Also, i'd like to take this time to add that I was completely thrown away by the style of this book from the title of the cover. At first, it didn't seem as though "Things Fall Apart" would be a title to what appears to be a very cultural book on its surface. Perhaps it will play a larger role in the book, later to come.
To what danny said i feel night is another theme but it alsos bring out another point as well. Alot of students have been commenting on the animalistic traits and characteristics portrayed through the characters that trait really intertwines with the theme of night because as danny had said they are portrayed like animals but are humanized through fear so another theme that i saw through those two were the struggle between learning to be what is considered a person in a world where animal traits are needed could very well be a huge part of this novel.
Alright, Kayla here. I'm not entirely sure of where to start. I guess I'd like to respond to Marrisa's question of who I feel sympathetic towards. My first answer would be neither Okonkwo or Unoka. I mean, I like Unoka more, because in our culture he'd be seen as an average, easy going guy. But in their culture, Unoka was detestable. I don't feel like he deserves to be sympathized with really. He did what he wanted to even though it was going against the norm for their culture, which is being a hard worker, where laziness is one of the worst things to be. Plus it wasn't like his life was really that bad. In fact, he seemed generally content, especially "when the village musicians brought down their instruments..." (4) He would play with them then, and that is when he was the happiest. It was said that "he loved ...the good fellowship,"(5). So, what I'm trying to say, is I don't feel sympathy towards him because he doesn't need it. Also,off the top of my head, I want to hate Okonkwo. As everyone has been saying, he's sexist, he's mean to his family, he breaks the clan rules, so on and so fourth. But if you look in one of the first chapters of the book, (the part that you begin to forget as you read the other chapters) Achebe had said that Okonkwo lived his life in fear. He was constantly afraid of looking like a woman, or ending up like his father. So really, I can sympathize with him. People do strange things out of fear, some of which translate into anger. I've noticed that the men in Okonkwo's clan aren't as harsh as he is. Okonkwo takes things and blows them out of proportion. For example, he talks about how he's worried about his twelve year old son who seems lazy. He doesn't sound lazy, that's for sure. Nwoye seems like any other twelve year old boy. He still secretly likes to hear his mother's stories, he longs to impress his father, and will help with any task he can, and he looks up to Ikemefuna as an older brother. He's not lazy, he's just still little. Men like Obierika, who is Maduka's father, seem much more laid back, but still manage to get work done. Obierika even tells Okonkwo "'You worry yourself for nothing',"(66). He's also much less violent, choosing to skip out on the killing of Ikemefuna. It makes him no less of a man, it just makes him a happier one. Moving on to my questions. What is the significance of a kola nut in their culture? It's mentioned a lot, and it could be nothing important, but I'm guessing that the fact that it's mentioned so much means it's significant.
Responding to one of Marrisa's question to this passage: "'Your chi is very much awake, my friend. And how is my daughter, Ezinma?' 'She has been very well for some time now. Perhaps she has come to stay.' 'I think she has. How old is she now?' 'She is about ten years old.' 'I think she will stay. They usually stay if they do not die before the age of six.' 'I pray she stays,' said Ekwefi with a heavy sigh'" (48).
In my opinion, I think the ladies are referring to the fate of most children, who usually die of sickness and do not survive beyond a certain age, which happens to be six in this case. So the fact that Ezinma is of age ten now, she will probably survive until adulthood.
I also noticed a lot of animal characteristics used in by Achebe to achieve his purpose of demonstrating the characters are fierce. It's actually rather interesting as it allows the audience to visualize everything the characters are doing, from speaking to acting.
In addition, Achebe utilizes setting to foreshadow future occurrences in the story. For example, on page 9, he describes the night as being dark, quiet, dangerous, and evil. This foreshadowed the killing of one the wives of a neighbor in Umofia. But Achebe also uses it ironically with harvest time. Harvests usually represent birth and growth. However, Ikemefuna was murdered during this time, and during harvest of a previous year, Nwoye saw twin babies being left to die in a forest.
Another observation I made during the reading was that Okonkwo's life really embodies the idea of a self-made man. He grew up in a poor household where his father could make no living. As Okonkwo grew up, he used his own bare hands to work the fields, faced many difficulties, but eventually succeeded in more ways than one. He now lives a life of prosperity and honor. However, the way he treats his women and his children are definitely uncivilized in our minds. This relates back to Katie's comment of the contrast between the culture of America and Africa. The self-made man concept is definitely American, but Achebe made it African by adding the bits and pieces of how Okonkwo uses it to terrorize his family.
Also, adding on to Katie's comments about Okonkwo's beginnings of self-struggle: I noticed that this began when Ikemefuna was brought into the family household. Nobody figured that Ikemefuna would be the one to change Okonkwo, but literature like to throw its audience on a curveball. In a way, one sorts of expected Ikemefuna to be the person to change Okonkwo from a harsh man who rules through fear to one who rethinks everything he does and says. Okonkwo allowed Ikemefuna to accompany him to meetings, to eat with him at the table, and to share stories with. He has never even done this with his oldest son, Nwoye, until Ikemefuna came along. After Ikemefuna had been murdered, Okonkwo faced many sleepless nights, in which he pondered why he had suddenly changed into a "woman." He is definitely becoming a different person from the beginning of the book, yet he refuses to allow himself to do so, in fear of becoming like his father.
A theme that could arise is growth and self-realization. Okonkwo could, in the end, realizes that his way of living, through constant fear and severity, is not rewardable, even if it brought honor and prosperity.
Wow, you guys have mentioned a lot of important things so far. I thought I would add some things that didn't seem to be mentioned yet.
During the journey the men were taking to kill Ikemefuna they could hear music. They stated that it was "an ozo dance" and that ment that, "somewhere a man was taking one of the titles of his clan, with music and dancing and a great feast"(59). Shortly after this is observed Okonkwo kills Ikemefuna. This seems pretty ironic to me, one young man receiving a title in his clan (this making him manly) and Ikemefuna being killed by his "foster father" and not able to become a man.
I also think that the locusts symbolize something greater coming to Umuofia in the near future.
"And then the locusts came. It had not happened for many a long year. The elders said locusts came once in a generation, reappeared every year for seven years and then disappeared for another lifetime. They went back to their caves in a distant land, where they ere guarded by a race of stunted men. And then after another lifetime these men opened the caves again and the locusts came to Umuofia"(54).
The locusts come so rarely that it seems that them appearing now in the book may mean that something greater is to follow.
hey guys!!!! well while reading "Things fall apart" and all of your comments I came to a dilemma between both marrisa's and katie's views on Unoka and Oknokwo. I agree with both opinions but it is kind of difficult to chose a side because as katie said "He was 'lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow" (4) all the way up to his death. But also I sympathize with Marrisa's comment about Unoka being "a man who loved to live in the moment, enjoying the present and not stressing the future. He is not a saver, but rather a spender..." Both opinions are great so I came to a conclusion that it is not so important to focus on Unoka's personality but instead on Okonkwo. Oknokwo demonstrates to be a tough men who many fear, even his own son, Nwoye. His personality foreshadows trouble for him and his family as he contines to not had "patience with unsuccessful men" (4) and "laziness" (13). Oknokwo feels so superior from everyone else that it will get him in trouble very soon, risking his prosperity and his family. The way he understimates everyone around him may cause him a big surprise in the future, for example his own son. Oknokwo sees Nwoye as a lazy kid and he is constantly "nagging and beating" (14) him. And instrad of correcting him, Oknokwo might be creating a monster worse than him.
Okonkwo shaped his image to represent everything his father was not- to generally serve as his antithesis. He built a comfortable lifestyle in spite of the fact that he "did not have the start that many young men usually had. He did not inherit a barn from his father..." (16), his desire- even mania to sever himself from his father's image created a severe flaw in Okonkwo. He is characterized as unyielding perhaps even savage who places impossible expectations on himself and others to prevent idleness/sloth. He himself even admits to these impractical expectations at one point, "Inwardly, Okonkwo knew that the boys were still too young to understand fully the difficult art of preparing seed-yams" yet he refused to excuse any of Nwoye and Ikemefuna's errors declaring, "He would stamp out the disquieting signs of laziness which he thought he already saw in" them (33). I must note Michaela's analysis of Okonkwo, in the sense that he can not be truly culpable for his actions, bound to both tradition and his own demons about being regarded as effiminate- thus squelching his own sentiments. For example, Okonkwa was as distraught as his 2nd wife Ekwefi concerning their daughter Ezinma the night she was taken to the Caves. He was "gravely worried" (112) and went searching for them. Clearly, Okonkwa expressed a form of paternal love then and again when he felt remorse over Ikemefuna. Regardless of the fact that Unoka had an adverse effect on his son, it is clear that Unoka over perhaps any other person tragically influenced him.
I would also like to note the language employed throughout the book. Along with the Igbo words used, the characters frequently use their own adages while engaging in conversation. Even within the first few pages this is exemplified- ie, "When the moon is shining the cripple becomes hungry for a walk," (10). As Alinne emphasized, the language creates atmosphere and a broader, richer picture of the culture that is being discussed.
I'm curious if anyone has any thoughts / predictions of what is to become of the family now that they've become exiled from the tribe. Even to return 7 years later, they likely will still return humiliated. Their lives seem to be irrevocably changed from this one inadvertent death.
sincerely, tzivia (I don't think I established who I was while I commented for the other books, woops)
I enjoy this book so far, I find it fascinating how different cultures value things so differently. Example the death of Ikemefuna was done so swiftly and fiercely as if emotions do not exsist. However when Okonkwo disurbs the "Week of Peace", the people suddenly look down upon him and are extremely disappointed. They also become hypocrites when they kill poor Ikemefuna. They refered to the young girl murdered as "a daughter of Umuofia"(11) and her killers as "sons of wild animals"(11). Then they themselves turn into the wild animals and murder the son of another village. It seems as though it is just a vicious cycle in their community. Violence seems to be promoted everywhere. The most exciting part of their new year celebration "was the day of the great wrestling match"(39). Okonkwo gives his second wife "a sound beating"(38), this on more than one occasion.
Another point that seems to come up is the hatred that Okonkwo has built up for his father. Achebe even says that Okonkwo was "possessed by the fear of father contemptible life and shameful death."(18) That is exactly what Okonkwo fears. He may hate his father but he was more embarassed by him then anything. And that is what Okonkwo fears, that vulnerability to laziness. He doesnt want his children to face the same shame that he did. As much as it seems that he dislikes them or that he doesn't care but he really just wants more for them. Also although Unoka was lazy he "loved it all"(5). He was a happy man. That is more than Okonkwo can say he is miserable.
The thing I don't understand is why he is so dissappointed that Enzinma "should have been a boy"(64). Why can't he just accept her as a strong female? It seems like to him that in no way can a women ever be as strong as a man. What is it about women that Okonkwo hates so much.
"Things Fall Apart" is a very vivid and violent book. Okonkwo shows many repressed memories of his father and than uses these memories to show his emotions, which aren't much.Okonkwo only shows violence in order to show the world that he will never become like his father, someone who had always been in debt and so called lazy. His violence is shown by beating his wife over a late meal on a very religious and important week, the week of peace. Another example would be how he beats his elder son because he believes that he shows signs of laziness and it reminds Okonkwo of his deceased father. It's like he wants to show the world that he is not weak and in control by doing these such things.
Another comment would be the reference to which their entire community follow. They seem very religious by following all these God's and only planting Yams on certain days and occasions. Like everything they do is so precise and in accordance with these God's that they worship. The culture of their society really is shown everywhere in every line of the story. However, agreeing with some customs they seem to have ultimate respect for them. Religion is a main focus that Achebe really utilizes.
Hello, Vanessa here. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe seemed like a very interesting book, but I began to flip through it and I realized all of the foreign words that are utilized in the novel. I have to admit, I was a little scared to start reading the book. I thought, how am I going to remember all of the words and their meanings as I read...? But, as I read on, I was so engulfed in the story that I completely forgot of my worries.
But yes, along with most of you, I noticed that Achebe does use animalistic characteristics when describing or introducing a character. The people of Umuofia are polytheistic and that could have something to do with it, especially the god of the earth. I agree with Marrisa about the idea of being one with the earth. The animals indeed are part of the earth and to have such qualities are a plus.
Okonkwo's father reminds me a lot of Aureliano Segundo in One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Aureliano Segundo loved to throw endless parties and celebrate with his neighbors serving liquor. Okonkwo's father Unoka was the same way. "...he immediately bought gourds of palm-wine, called round his neighbors and made merry," (4). This is exactly what Aureliano did too, the only difference was that Aureliano was prosperous while Unoka was not.
I can see why Okonkwo is so very ashamed of his father, but then again, it's not improving himself in the positive ways because the way he thinks affects all those around him. It has gotten so far that his emotions are hidden DEEP down inside and he rarely expresses it. Usually he's out hitting or threatening someone. The reason why I say this is because in his village, men are suppose to be strong physically and mentally. If a man is not strong, they call him an "agbala", a woman. Also, he is determined to prove that he is not his father, that he is quite the complete opposite. "He was a wealthy farmer and had two barns full of yams, and had just married his third wife," (8). Not only was he rich, but he was greatly respected because of his strength (and feared too) after defeating Amalinze the Cat in a wrestling match. But, his father was "...lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow. If any money came his way, and it seldom did, he immediately bought gourds of palm-wine..." (4). This is self-explanatory. But is Okonkwo really as strong as he everyone thinks he is? I thought about it because he's only being this way because he's afraid of what people think of him and gaining "the title" among his village. He says that fear is weakness, but the fear is already in himself. Also, I hadn't thought about it until Marrisa mentioned it. She says that he is losing his joy and happiness at the same time. I also agree with the cycle that Nwoye will end up hating his father. The way Nwoye was growing up, I sensed some of Unoka in him, too. "Okonkwo's first son, Nwoye, was then twelve years old but was already causing his father great anxiety for his incipient laziness. At any rate, that wasw how it looked to his father, and he sought to correct him by constant nagging and beating. And so Nwoye was developing into a sad-faced youth," (14). He's lazy like his grandfather and the persistant nagging of Okonkwo isn't making the situation any better either.
Last, I also find it interesting of Okonkwo's fondness of Ezinma. He wishes that "she would have been a boy" (64) because she has the qualities to do so. But, Nwoye loved his mother's stories about the village. Maybe Nwoye should've been the girl because Okonkwo, while visiting his friend Obierika, says, "I am worried about Nwoye. A bowl of pounded yams can throw him in a wrestinling match," (66). Okokwo is basically saying that his son is weak and weakness is considered a woman's characteristic. I just think it's ironic how she should've been the boy and how he should've been the girl.
I think Matt brought up a good point about Okonkwo. Are we suppose to like this guy? I think that were are suppose to just learn a lesson that Achebe establishes through this character. Instead of disliking Okonkwo, I feel sorry for him. He is missing out a whole lot on life because of his determination to be a man and not being called an agbala.
To what Danny said, I think that night is an important symbol to the story and compared the significance of night time to that of the book 'The Crucible' where the forest, especially at night was considered to be filled with evil.
I also have comparisons of this part of the book to the other two books we had to read this summer.
One Hundred Years of Solitude- Okonkwo reminds me of Jose Aureliano Buendia and how they both did not show slight interests in their sons unless the sons participated in things that interested the men. Okonkwo did not want anything to do with Nwoye until he wanted to help with the harvewsting. This is like when Jose Aureliano Buendia was distant from his family until his son Aureliano Buendia shows interest in all the inventions his father had in his lab. Both men were looked up to by their sons but did not seem to notice until the sons conformed into doing what they wanted.
The Remains of the Day- I also compared a father/son realtionship but this time it was Stevens and Stevens Sr. being contrasted to Okonkwo and his father Unoka. In 'The Remains of the Day' Stevens looks up to his father and aims to be just like him because he embodies the definition of 'dignity' and a 'great butler' but a complete difference is how Okonkwo wishes to be nothing like his father and aims to live his life the exact opposite of his. Both Stevens and Okonkwo do not show any emotion when their father dies because they want to show their strength and keep their respected status.
To what a couple of people were saying about their feelings towards Okonkwo, I am not sure yet whether I like him or not. Agreeing with others, I was turned-off by some of the things he said and did throughout the story, but I think readers have to look at Okonkwos past before they can definately say they do not like this character. Okonkwo has been supporting himself and his family since he was young. He also had to rely on himself for anything he needed. This tough past would make a man have a lot of anger inside of him. I do feel a sort of dislike for Okonkwo but also I feel sympathy for him.
Since we’re all making introductions; Rorschach here, not smashing in heads tonight so I figured I’d blog a bit.
As I read, I was indulged in the spiritual and cultural aspect of the novel more than anything else.
For example on the spiritual aspect during the wrestling match, “the drummers stopped to rest….They became ordinary humans again, talking and laughing among themselves…” When such joyous festivals are held, the people become possessed by a greater being or force and change. I see them as just being possessed by a spirit. For example, many of you I know play sports and during a game, you, yourself become someone else on the field. And I treat their transformation from ordinary human to “animalistic” as such. So now I bring my attention the term “animalistic”, that many of you have mentioned. I see the term “animalistic” being used quite negatively. For example, “ ; as mentioned by many of you. Many of you however, have you used the term animalistic in a negative sense and as many of you have said.
“Achebe's constant use of animalistic descriptions for the characters in Things Fall Apart is to show that these people are "uncivilized". To show that these people are "uncivilized", Achebe compares them to animals. Achebe also exemplifies how “uncivilized” the people are by showing that they are not modernized; shows Okonkwo’s inability to use a gun, a tool used in the modern world.”
I disagree and see this as normal personification and shouldn’t be read in too deeply, that these people are “uncivilized”. Such statements are ridiculous ideas forced on to us by the white man who apparently, as all of you have stated unconsciously, has the power to juristic what is “civilized” and “uncivilized”. The people of Umuofia are quite civilized. They have laws and titles; like in many civilizations, there is a hierarchy and Umuofia exemplifies this. However, because the culture is so different that to outsiders it may seem uncivilized. Although I do not condone the slaying of another man, sacrifices have gone on in many civilizations. From The Egyptians, Greeks, to the even Anglo-Saxons (The Bible; animal sacrifice), to any other civilization you can think of. Another point that I would like to make is, when has being able to use a gun been a symbol of modernization and civilization? When as we’ve discussed, the killing of another person is “uncivilized” and the use of a gun can either be for protection or attack, either way someone is injured or killed.
Reading Things Fall Apart was such a thrill for me because of the cultural connection. Many of you don’t know this but I’m from Nigeria. Some of the festivals mentioned I’ve been a part of; such as a burial ceremony. But what’s thrilling for me is finding out aspects of my culture that I’ve never been aware of. And those aspects of my culture have probably been lost overtime but knowing is wonderful. I’ve also had locust and it’s not too bad; quite tasty. I’ve also had a lot of the foods the characters eat. If anyone was interested about the different foods and would like to try some, I wouldn’t mind bringing it in.
Hey everyone! Stephen here (just in case you didn't know).
I noticed that many people have picked up the contrast between the noble and "offensive" qualities in Okonkwo. His "noble" qualities include his work ethic, and his "offensive" qualities include his domestic/spousal/child abuse, his sexism, and his relationship with his children. I would like to comment on these qualities, and perhaps draw a conclusion. I have noticed that many of us (meaning 21st century Americans)immediately judge Okonkwo, and the society of Umuofia through the lens of our society. We are, of course, outraged when Okonkwo beats his wives, we immediately view this society as "primitive" based on their obvious sexism, their polygamy, the fact that they live in 'huts' and so on. However, like rorschach, I find fault with this reasoning. Many of the differences between their world and ours are, as many of you pointed out, cultural. Okonkwo beats his wife (and the village priest agrees with the beating in principle, admitting, "Your wife was at fault..." (30), while condemning the TIMING of the beating). Okonkwo is sexist (along with every other adult male in the village). And Okonkwo rules his household with an iron fist. All of these facts are undeniable. However, in his society, all of these qualities are considered virtues. Beating your wife and kids was a sign of discipline. The people of Umuofia would never have dreamed of a female dominated society because culturally, it would be against nature for them. Thus, sexism. Killing the war hostage of your community, regardless of emotional attachment, was considered right and proper. Conversely, in our society, beating your wife and kids is a vice (it's called "domestic violence" and you can go to jail for it). So is sexism. So, in reading Things Fall Apart, I think that we should remind ourselves that cultural differences should be viewed within the lens of the society of Umuofia, no matter how much they may make us want to reach into the book to stop Okonkwo from beating his kids.
That being said, like rorschach, I can't help but see the "civility" of Umuofia. Umuofia has laws, a religion, traditions, a stratified social class system, and a system of currency. That seems pretty "civilized" to me. They don't have sewage systems, large cities, and air conditioning, but I don't count these attributes as a marker of civilization anyway.
Some qualities are universal. Our society has "traditions" and mores that everyone is conscious of (Go to college, get a good job, feed and house your spouse and kids, grow old, and die. Oh, and some community service along the way). Our society has values, some of which are identical to Umuofia's (hard work, suspicion of laziness, providing for one's children, etc.). The goal that Okonkwo is striving for is identical to most of the goals of modern society: provide for one's family, become successful.
So, with all cultural differences aside, are Okonkwo's goals of becoming successful and becoming a leader of his community all that inconcievable to the modern man?
Achebe published this book in the 1950s, in a relatively modern society. In writing about this society(which exists in the colonial era), is Achebe trying to make an alien society more understandable to us by connecting the reader to a character (Okonkwo) that shares similar goals and fears of failure (despite obvious cultural differences)? What do you think?
Hey! Joe is back in America pumped to do his Lit homework!
I have to agree with everyone with their analysis on Okonkwo. He has definitely proved to be a complicated character mainly because I have mixed feelings towards this character. The act of earning everything he has now by his own hard work is a respectable feat, however of course he has many more negative qualities that aggravate me because I feel like such a respectable man should have a parallel personality. Okonkwo is a short tempered, violent man. These two qualities do not make up a people-person, but because of the experiences this main character goes through kind of forces the reader to appreciate him and even pity him especially after the death of Ikemefuna. Well, after all the set backs that Okonkwo faces in his life, it still does not change the fact that he does not deal well with others.
A huge part of this first section was getting a feel for the Nigerian Tribe's culture which dictates actions in everyday life. For example, what the oracle commands, the tribe follows through. A few people have titled this tribe's culture as uncivilized and that's certainly understandable coming from society such as ours. However, something to look at would be the end of chapter 8 where we can see a view at our culture from a different perspective, "It is like the story of white men who, they say, are white like this piece of chalk..."(74) Well it is apparently surprising to them to see a man white as a piece of chalk for self explanatory reasons. What I'm trying to say is that their culture is not uncivilized, it is simply different. I see a few have already responded to this suggestion, something i would like to add would be, when reading the rest of this story do not think of this culture as something lower than our culture but something different. This means the tribe is neither better nor worse just unique.
Also, a few people have mentioned the use of qualities of animals throughout the first section. I disagree that they are used to show that the people are uncivilized but more importantly, at least in terms of Okonkwo since the examples used are specific to Okonkwo, it adds to his character. Okonkwo, since the beginning pages, has been depicted as a very intimidating person. This is why i feel like the author also included that he had been the greatest wrestler of his time, it only adds to his intimidating character. Being like an animal in a ring means you are stronger than man. Even in plain speech we use the same language, for example, "you were a beast today!" is an expression we use and is merely a compliment not really an insult.
Now to touch on Stephen's question! As of right now, i feel like Achebe is doing exactly as you say, "trying to make an alien society more understandable to us by connecting the reader to a character (Okonkwo) that shares similar goals and fears of failure." Seeing that our cultures are so different, AChebe can connect the reader with the main character through the same human qualities that all of us share, one of those would be fear. Through the connection created between Okonkwo and the reader, Okonkwo sort of facilitates the cultural learning through the ways in which the culture of the tribe impacts him.
stevie and rorschach summed up what I was going to say on that subject, so I'll move on.
It was mentioned earlier that there is a striking similarity in both cultures, the "American" culture and the "Nigerian" culture, despite the obvious differences. One similarity being, as stevie had mentioned, the goal of succeeding and providing for one's family. As a first-generation American I can definitely relate to the desire and the pressure to be financially stable enough to support not only myself and my family but my parents and grandparents as well.
However, as everyone most likely noticed, Okonkwo has some glaring faults in his character. His intense masculinity (which is most likely due to the environment's influence, but is another discussion) is fueled by fear, which is a shaky foundation to build anything upon. What's interesting is not that he has these traits, but the sneaking suspicion that Achebe is presenting Okonkwo's story more universally than it at first seems. For, despite the fact that the setting has changed, Umuofia has a lot of similarities to our society, like a hierarchy of titles and wars and laws and even a court with judges (90). Town criers have replaced the e-mails and phone calls of our society. So, the point is that while it looks different, what is essentially being said can be applied to all of us.
Perhaps Okonkwo's downfall is not just a tragic story but a lesson.
Oh, and P.S.: I read all of Part One of the book, even though it's disproportionate.
While beginning this book I became very aware of the strong sense of tradition, and I can't help but recall Fiddler on the Roof (being the drama geek that I am). The go through the same process every time someone visits another person's hut. What is plainly evident is the fear of weakness and ending up like his father, buried in the Evil Forest.
I predict that, similar to "A Hundred Years of Solitude" , his worst fear is going to come true.
His idea of weakness is not only laziness, but being "a woman". This is ingrained in his culture and religion. Just as "How To Read Literature Like a Professor" mentioned, religion always affects literature whether the author believes in it or not. This story is so rich in culture and tradition, it is impossible not to include god as well.
I do not know Achebe's mythic background, or religious beliefs, but this seems as if though it has been adapted from an african fairy tale or religious story of the sort.
As the novel begins, Achebe wastes no time in introducing Okonkwo as a powerful and prestigious character who is "well known throughout the nine villages and beyond." (3) I also have noticed the savagely and almost barbaric characteristics that Achebe associates him with. The animal-like descriptions sets the novel in a world that though seems organized by their religious belief in gods and spirits, is in fact uncivilized. The irony at work seems to be seen throughout the novel, as with the relationship and feelings Okonkwo holds towards his father. I find his hatred and intolerance with "unsuccessful men" and "his father" (4) to be the stem of an inevitable downfall. It is this intolerance that leads him to do everything and anything to avoid following the footsteps of his father who died as a disgrace without gaining any titles in the village. Though his motivations lead him to success, his obsession to avoid becoming his father leads him to become a man who lacks morality, sympathy and sentimentality. He is so blinded by the goal of becoming the total opposite of his father that he ignores all conscience. He is under the false impression that through abuse towards his wife, that through strict training of his children, and that through holding back his emotions he is powerful and he is respected. However, it is clear that beneath the facade that he displays for the world, he is a weak man trying to hide his insecurities about his shameful upbringing.
I find that the yams maybe in fact a symbol of Okonkwo himself. He like the yams, the most important and prized crop, holds a prestigious position in his village. However, the fate of the yams may be a foreshadowing of the fate of Okonkwo himself as “yams of the old year were all disposed of...the new year must begin with tasty, fresh yams and not the shrivelled and fibrous crop of the previous year.” (36) Through the life of the yams, it can be seen that though one may experience a period of glory, it is inevitable that that surreal moment is bound to come to a close. When one’s purpose becomes useless, one is sure to be cast aside, without regards to one’s prior status or accomplishments. Okonkwo’s strives for perfection in his yams as he “looked at each yam carefully” (32) just as he leaves no room for weakness in his life. His life in fact is dominated by this fear of being weak, which is ironic since this is his greatest weakness.
Nwoye can be viewed as the living version of Okonkwo’s fear and Ikemefuna on the other hand maybe symbolic of the ideal image he holds for what he sees as a strong man. However, when Okonkwo becomes the one to kill Ikemefuna, he in a way is killing that unrealistic ideal he has held. After the murder, we are able to catch a glimpse of the humane side of Okonkwo in which his guilt sent a “cold shiver [that] descended on his head and spread down his body.” (63)
My first reaction to this book, was that just looking at the title, "Things Fall Apart", that this wasn't going to be a book with a happy ending, where the main character would realize something that would change his life for the better, but where it would end with a death. Personally, I don't like books without happy endings, probably the reason why i don't like watching scary movies. This book was actually quick reading and probably my favorite out of the four books.
On the first page, right at the beginning, Achebe immediately describes Okonkwo using words that showed his masculinity, how he is well- known for his victory of defeating Amalinze, who had gone undefeated for seven years. As the reading continues, like Marrisa had said, there is gender inequality, which stuck out to me more than the animal qualities. So gender inequality... Okonkwo, like many people of third world countries, probably close to all, believe that males are the head of the household and women have A LOT of limitations in the clan, so i was not surprised: however, i was surprised when i read that men of high status have multiple wives and that they are fine with being one of the wives. Who would want to marry a man that "was tall and huge, and his bushy eyebrows and wide nose gave him a severe look... and he did pounce of people quite often...and whenever he was angry and could not get his words out quickly enough, he would use his fists."(4)? Gender inequality was apparent when men with no titles were called "agbala", which meant also meant women. To most people of the clan, not having a title meant that one was immasculine, which i would side with Cynthia on.
I agree with Courtney about the locusts. After the locusts came, there seem to be bad luck for Okonkwo and his family.
Okonkwo is very huberous.(does that make sense? hahah sorry, i wanted to use a better word than full of pride) He cares more about that the village would think about him, than what would be right. For example, the situation with Ikemefuma. Okonkwo inwardly was fond of him and let him call him Father. With that, the day the village decided to kill Ikemefuma, Okonkwo was told to not take part of the killing. As Ikemefuma was about to be killed, he ran to Okonkwo, and Okonkwo, trying not to seem "weak" killed Ikemefuma instead. Okonkwo had a goal of earning all four titles Umuofia had to offer. Only one person came close to that and it was the oldest person in the clan with three titles and he wanted to excede that and be the "best man in the world". With all this pride, i agree with Angela that this book has reminded me of "Antigone", which i predict that Okonkwo will have a downfall. I agree with Courtney about the locusts. After the locusts came, there seem to be bad luck for Okonkwo and his family.
When Okonkwo had killed Ikemefuma and saw Nyowe watching him walk back, Nyowe felt something he only felt once before in his life, when he discovered that twins that were just born had to be thrown in the forest. He felt that "something had given way in him, like the snapping of a tightened bow... He just hang limp." (61)
A comment to what Marisa stated about the the clan being "uncivilized": even though they follow old tradition and customs, and normally fight with knives, they have been introduced to guns, so they really arn't that uncivilized.
Also, to comment about Danny's comment, what he said about since his father treated him poorly, he should want to treat his family better: well, like i said before, the clan is very traditional, which i have come to see it as full of pride, and to Okonkwo, treating his family for a "better life" would be to bring it honor, through titles, and and status.
Right off the bat Chinua Achebe gives an an ambiance of tradition using Ibo words and phrases. And through their traditions, the Igbo community are shown to be peaceful and quite sophisticated and intelligent. Achebe writes, "Among the Igbo the art of conversation is regarded very highly, and proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten." (7). I would have to say that I disagree with what Angel said about Achebo using animal imagery to portray the Igbo as uncivilized but instead to emphasize their sense of tradition and culture. Igbos also use animals in parallel to themselves in fables and each tribes has their own fables which then separates the tribes and forces the reader to see them separately instead of as one big community.
Gender role is very apparent in "Things fall apart" as Achebe uses it as a way to interpret multiple meanings of "masculinity". I found it very ironic how Okonkwo, who views masculinity in the traditional sense (measured in strength and showing little to no emotion), favors Ezinma the most out of his children even though she is a female. He even states that it would've been better if she were born a man.
Wow… reading the blogs before me was a workout, but I recognize that it’s my fault procrastinating yet again.
Moving on, let me start by commenting on the two topics that everyone else has: animal imagery and gender roles. (Hmm… what’s the opposite of personification, animalification? For our purposes let’s call it animal imagery.)
Anyway, the animal imagery is certainly very prominent in the text but I had never seen it the way most others here have. I assumed as Marrisa did that all of the animal imagery was used simply for the reason of developing the setting and the characters. I strongly disagree (sorry) with Angel, Malsa and others in saying that Achebe uses animal imagery to instill in the reader the sense that the people of Umuofia are uncivilized in anyway. One need only turn to the “about the author” section of the book (located towards the back) to see that a man educated in African cultures and studies would seldom be heard classifying any world-culture as uncivilized.
Personally, I believe Achebe’s purpose in using the animal imagery is two-fold: to symbolize manliness (a quality that is very clearly stressed in this novel) and to stress the richness of the Umuofian and other tribal cultures. Firstly, Okonkwo, the epitome of the stereotypical manly-man, is often described using animal like qualities. He is described as “pouncing” and “roaring” much like a cheetah (as Ashley8 observed) or as a lion (as Taylor did).
Secondly, I believe that the tone and mood created by the animal-ification is used to stress the richness of the tribal culture. A passage that Paul beat me to that struck me as literary genius was when Achebe wrote “Among the Igbo the art of conversation is regarded very highly, and proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten” (7) describing the richness of the Umuofian language (and I believe, civilization). Though not directly animal imagery in itself, this passage is enhanced, as are many others, by the animalistic tone.
To move on to gender roles in the novel, I was initially struck by the immense inequalities between men and women in this book. However, I disagree with Marrisa, Matt, Cynthia, Alinne and many others in saying that Okonkwo is a distinctly evil person for his beliefs that women are in some way inferior to men. Though I disagree with Okonkwo’s belief on this topic, I do not hold him at any fault for his belief as it is so prominent in their culture and in many if not most African and other foreign cultures (sadly even today).
Responding to Mario’s question: yes there is a universal appeal to this novel. We are all conflicted by certain things portrayed so far, whether that be issues with a parent or an issue conforming to what society expects of us. I personally do not believe Okonkwo is a bad person but is made to act the way he does (killing what became a son to him just to please a clan) by one of the most ancient and universal of all evils: peer pressure.
To end on a bit of a depressing note, I am afraid that since the novel is titled “Things Fall Apart” it foreshadows a terrible event in the village or a terrible event happening to Okonkwo’s family. What I think this is, for some reason, is Okonkwo’s entire village or just him being taken from their tribe and brought to work as slaves across the Atlantic. I am not sure why I think this, just a feeling I am getting… it feels that things are going a bit too smoothly for the village as a whole.
Thanks Everyone, I loved reading the blogs! -Dario
To reply to what And The Benefactor Is... Dario said, yes things are moving too smoothly but there has been a few foreshadows of the fults of his manlyness. This was very apparent in chapter 4 of his style in dealing with less successful men. He was easily able to "kill a man's spirt" (28) by saying "this meeting is for men." His lack of ability for tolerance made him somewhat unlikeable in the meeting. During the Week of Peace, he was also unable to control himself from beating his wife. Eventually, as jlam09 stated, things really do falls apart when he ruins his name by killing Ezeudu's son by accident.
As for the cave event, I was very pleased when he came along with Ekwefi. It felt like the purpose of that event is to show that he is still a human. Even though he never said it, he left for the cave because he started to worry. I really do wish him to show his emotions without him worring that it might look like less of a man.
So far, what I see of this book is a story of a man who wished to escape his father's failure. He wantgs to restore honor to his blood. He hides his fear of failing with his anger. He hides his weakness by trying to make those around him weaker than him. Also, to comment on Marissa's blog, yes, Achebe does seem to use nature and animals to describe the people and place of the story. I think this is to try to bring the reader back to a time before technology, when the animals were known as the strongest, the most feared, not humans. I could not say that I connected with the story, because this sense of "one-ness" with the earth seemed forced, and it took my attention away from the story. I also see that Okonkwo's harshness will come back to be his tragic flaw.
This site will be the summer resource for students in Mr. Gallagher and Ms. Clapp's AP Literature courses. You'll come here to discuss summer reading, college searches and applications, and literary topics in general.
44 comments:
Hello everyone. First off, while reading "Things Fall Apart," I began to realize that Achebe utilizes an abundance of animalistic qualities when descirbing the characters in the book. For instance, there is "Amalinze the Cat"(3), "Okonkwo was as slippery as a fish in water"(3) and "...he did pounce on people quite often"(4). There are also many refrences to the environment: "...his [Unoka's] happiest moments were the two or three moons after the harvest"(4) and "...Okonkwo's fame had grown like a bush-fire"(3). This all helps to build the aura of the African environment as one with a variety of animals and greens everywhere. Achebe, I believe, does this to create a connection between the characters and their environment--an idea of being one with the earth. It just shows how prominent, as well as influential, the African surroundings are to the text, and the story as a whole--it helps the reader see the characters in a different light: rather than just humans, they can also be symbolized by different kinds of animals, which can be quite helpful. I began to view Okonkwo as quite an agressive animal, since he is described as a rough and tough kind of guy, while his father, Unoka is seen as more of a peaceful animal--one that just hangs around, not bothering anyone and not taking part in anything "viewed by others" as possibly making a change, but simply existing for the sake of enjoying and living life. All in all, I just found Achebe's techniques to be quite interesting and relatable to the African environment--it simply provides the reader with a great journey, as well as a better grasp at who the characters are. Do any of you guys find there to be a greater meaning to Achebe's refrence to the environment, especially when speaking of the characters or do you have a completely different idea? I was also wondering if any of you came upon similar techniques that were symbolic in some way, that were utilized for a great majority of the text?
Thanks :)
Hello again. Another topic of interest that I found in this book was Okonkwo's absolute loathing for his father, Unoka. Sure, I can comprehend the fact that he has learned from what appears to be his father's "mistake"--laziness-- but his father does not seem all that bad of a person to me. Unoka seemed like a man who loved to live in the moment, enjoying the present and not stressing the future. He is not a saver, but rather a spender, which I interpreted through Achebe writing, "If any money came his way, and it seldom did, he immediately bought gourds of palm-wine, called round his neighbors and made merry"(4) and also that he would say, "whenever he saw a dead man's mouth he saw the folly of not eating what one had in one's lifetime" (4). From these lines, I understood that Unoka, in his younger years, enjoyed making his friends happy--he did not care about saving his money or using it for himself, but rather cared about the elation he would bring others. He did not want to have regrets of things that he did not get to experience. He saw no point in saving money--you are living life now, so why not take pleasure in every moment. I suppose that the catalyst for Unoka's later state of existence can only be explained by his spending habits, or his lack of "responsibility" with money. However, this is no reason for Okonkwo to despise his father. After all, although Unoka was a "lazy" spender, he was altogether a kind man who had "loved it all"(5)--everything about life. Okonkwo, to me, is not that great of a person--perhaps even worse than his father was viewed. For one, he is violent-- "rul[ing] his household with fear" (13), having a dreadful temper. He is violent towards his son Nwoye, because he feels that he has “Incipient laziness"(13). At this moment, we can see Achebe coming in, creating an antagonistic view of Okonkwo, while serving positive feelings towards Nwoye, when he follows the previous quote, by saying "At any rate, that was how it looked to his father"(13), hinting at Okonkwo's mind--how it is simply filled with a hate for "everything that his father Unoka had loved" (13) and everything that his father was perceived as. His mind is tainted: any slight action that may annoy him a bit, causes him to feel a great amount of anger and aggression. It’s ironic, because Okonkwo does not want to be a "failure" like his father, when it comes to money and power, but he is essentially losing something in the process, which his father had, and that is happiness, joy, and peace—not being an aggressive “war waging” kind of man. His son, Nwoye will also probably end up disliking his father as well, which then goes on to create a cycle. They are both incomplete as people--they are both lacking positive characteristics, but to me, I find Okonkwo to be lacking more morally than Unoka. Do you feel sympathetic towards/side with Okonkwo, Unoka, or none of them? Do you feel that the writer attempts to side with/promote one character in a positive light while another in a negative? Any other thoughts?
Thanks.
Hi guys. Okay--I have a question: On page 48, the conversation between Ekwefi and "the woman."
Achebe writes:
"'Your chi is very much awake, my friend. And how is my daughter, Ezinma?' 'She has been very well for some time now. Perhaps she has come to stay.' 'I think she has. How old is she now?' 'She is about ten years old.' 'I think she will stay. They usually stay if they do not die before the age of six.' 'I pray she stays,' said Ekwefi with a heavy sigh'" (48).
I am not sure what they are speaking of--is it just some kind of sickness that all children are at risk for or is there something wrong with Ezinma's health specifically?
GENDER INEQUALITY: Something that I have noticed from the start of the book, and have been keeping track of, is the gender inequality that takes place. Okonkwo clearly believes the male gender to be far more superior to the female. One example: “Without looking at the man Okonkwo had said: ‘This meeting is for men.’ The man who had contradicted him had no titles. That was why he had called him a woman” (26). Another example: “His mother and sisters worked hard enough, but they grew women’s crops, like coco-yams, beans and cassava. Yam, the king of crops, was a man’s crops”
(23).
POSSIBLE SPOILER (chapter 7)
OKONKWO & IKEMEFUNA: Moving onto another subject that I wanted to discuss, Ikemefuna and Okonkwo's relationship. The writer states how Okonkwo was fond of Ikemefuna (page 28), and Ikemefuna grows fond of the family as well,even considering Okonkwo his father. Ogbuefi Ezeudu later goes on to tell Okonkwo that Ikemefuna will be killed and that Okonkwo should not be involved, since Ikemefuna considers Okonkwo his father. I did not expect him to change Okonkwo’s mind about being involved in the killing, since Okonkwo has "never showed any emotion openly, unless it be the emotion of anger" (28), as Achebe stated. Towards the end of chapter seven, Ikemefuna is returning home, when he is suddenly attacked with a machete, and then goes on to “cry, 'My father, they have killed me!' as he ran towards him" (61), and then suddenly is attacked by Okonkwo who does not want to be "thought weak" (61). For some reason, although it was expected, it was still shocking to me. Okonkwo’s thought process/reasoning is absolutely ridiculous and cold-hearted. This poor boy was walking home, thinking of how he would tell his mother of the great care Okonkwo took of him, only to be betrayed by him moments later. This book is getting scary—a great relationship appeared to have been created between the two, only for it to be thrown away in a second, because Okonkwo is not the kind of person who seems to care about anyone but himself and his reputation as a “man.”
OKONKWO & NWOYE: Also, it is interesting to see Nwoye’s reaction to his father, in general. After Ikemefuna is killed--and Nwoye is well aware of it—Achebe writes of how Nwoye had felt a “chill” like one after “pass[ing] an evil spirit” when the event with the twins “thrown away in the forest” (62) had taken place, and that he now felt that same chill when his father arrived home after the killing. These few lines symbolize the image that Nwoye has of his father, and that is of someone murderous and evil--which is accurate.
I am curious as to what your ideas/responses to all of these topics/situations that have taken place are.
Thanks a lot.
Hey guys. To Marrisa, I also noticed Achebe's constant use of animalistic descriptions for the characters in Things Fall Apart. I believe one of the effects of the author's technique is to show that these people are "uncivilized". To show that these people are "uncivilized", Achebe compares them to animals. He writes, "He threw his head down and gnashed his teeth, and allowed a murmur of suppressed anger to sweep the crowd” (11). The author uses description, such as “gnashed his teeth” and “threw his head down”, to illustrate an image of the characters acting like vicious animals. Achebe also exemplifies how “uncivilized” the people are by showing that they are not modernized. On page 38, Achebe writes, “In fact he had not killed a rat with a gun”. The author shows Okonkwo’s inability to use a gun, a tool used in the modern world. I also noticed the gender roles of this society, and gender roles, for the most part, go hand in hand with the importance of pride. Achebe shows how Okonkwo values his pride with his shame for his lazy father and desire to have the ideal family and lifestyle. Okonkwo drives his son to be a man, such as on page 33, Achebe writes, “Inwardly Okonkwo knew that the boys were still too young to understand fully the difficult art of preparing seedyams…Yam stood for manliness…Okonkwo wanted his son to be a great farmer and a great man.” However, I think Okonkwo’s pride will lead a common theme of downfall, such as Creon in “Antigone”, thus the title, Things Fall Apart.
ah I just realized that Okonkwo's accidental murder occurs in part I. That would be part of the downfall I was referring to previously.
Hey, Malisa here. I'm really enjoying the book so far, and I have to say that I most definitely agree with what Angela was saying. Chinua Achebe uses a lot of comparisons between animals and humans to show them as uncivilized people; same with the inability to use a modern tool such as a gun. However, by them, I'm referring to specifically only the tribe that Okonkwo is a part of. Near the end of the first third of the book, a friend mentions that "Okonkwo and I were talking about Abame and Aninta, where titled men climb trees and pound foo-foo for their wives." (73) This shows that while Okonkwo's tribe holds the ideas of certain positions for each sex high, other tribes have moved on, moving closer to 'civilization,' as one could say. Also, while I'm not certain, in response to Marrisa's question about Ezinma and the sickness, I thought it was most likely malaria; there's plenty of mosquitoes, and people are much more susceptible to malaria at a younger age.
While reading “Things Fall Apart,” I too noticed that there are numerous animalistic references and many of these references are geared towards Okonkwo and the importance of putting on the façade of a strong and physically capable man. I agree with Marrisa because there are many animalistic and environmental references on pages 3 and 4 where Achebe comments on how Okonkwo’s “fame had grown like a bush-fire in the harmattan” (3), he “pounce(s) on people quite often” (4) and also, “when he walked, his heels hardly touched the ground.” I feel that all of these qualities describe one of the most powerful and dominate animals in many African safaris- the cheetah. Okonkwo moves quickly and “pounces” on his prey or anyone he becomes angry with in order to obtain power and to not be viewed as a weak individual. Achebe makes these connections amongst humans and animals to express how the strongest will prevail and the weak usually fail. I also feel that Okonkwo fears being seen as weak because it connects him to his father, Unoka. Okonkwo, a strong and wealthy man has three wives, many kids, a huge and prosperous farm, and he is well-known and greatly feared by many other tribes. Where as his father, Unoka, was a lazy, poor, debtor, who never made a name for himself and eventually was left to die in the Evil Forest. I believe that Achebe makes Unoka and Okonkwo two very different characters because it shows how strongly Okonkwo wanted to make a better life for himself and to become a fierce competitor in his tribe.
Although Okonkwo has a great desire to be seen as the dominate force in many aspects of his life such as “throwing Amalinze the Cat” (3) and ruling “his household with a heavy hand” (13), I think that his unpredictable temper could lead to his biggest downfall. Okonkwo’s tough mentality caused him to constantly nag and beat his son, Nwoye, because he thought his son was very lazy. I think Achebe uses these elements as a way to foreshadow Okonwo’s relationship with Nwoye as one that will eventually turn out to be like the relationship Okonkwo had with his father. I predict that Nwoye will ultimately resent his father for the violent ways in which he treats him and especially the methods he uses against many of his wives. For instance, Okonkwo shot a loaded gun at his second wife because she “murmured something about guns that never shot” (38-39). Okonkwo resented his father for his lack of strength, however, I predict that Okonkwo’s family, especially Nwoye will ultimately resent him for his desire to have too much of a strong hold in their lives.
Hey everyone!
I also noticed the continued use of dehumanization throughout part one of the novel. The people are often treated or given animal-like qualities. Achebe often uses terms such as "roared" to get his points across.
One other thing i realized is that women basically don't have many rights at all. They get beaten if they do things wrong and they rarely ask any questions. They keep everything inside, in fear of getting beaten for speaking up. It was said that, "No woman ever asked questions about the most powerful and most secret cult in the clan."(88)
I really found it interesting how much the people depend on each God. After the accidental death by Okonkwo, he had to leave the land and only return in seven years. That was because he murdered a female. It really showed how they are not used to using technology that would be easy used in today's times. I wanted to know what would have happened if he had killed a male. Would he had ever been able to come back? i find the rules of the clans very difficult to keep track of, but very interesting to learn about as well.
I am very eager to know the future of Okonkwo since he is forced to leave the clan. Will people try to locate him, breaking the rules, or will he just be forgotten until his return in seven years?
Oh! I almost forgot.
I really liked the character Ikemefuna. He was ripped away from his family and thrown into another because of what a relative did. He worked as hard as he could and eventually felt at home. I was very surprised that Okonkwo actually was the one to give him the last blow and kill him. It started to eat him up inside but eventually he didn't care. This ties into the strange rules of the clan. I am really enjoying seeing how different cultures differ from that of our own.
Hello all =]. Taylor here. The numerous references to animals and nature in the book discussed previously, along with Angel's discussion of Okonkwo's pride made something click in my mind. I see Okonkwo as a proud, masculine male lion. He has three wives, which wasn't uncommon to his community, as the number of female lions usually outnumber males in packs. Also, I found it to be thought-provoking that female lions do the hunting, not the males. The males use their roar and large manes to intimidate and scare predators, just as Okonkwo uses his physical strength and harsh demeanor to control his family to hold such a high status in his community, and doesn't treat his wives as equals.
As Okonkwo was talking to Ezeani, priest of the earth goddess (again, a reference to nature), after Okonkwo beat his wife during the Week of Peace, Ezaeni scolds, "'We live in peace with our fellows to honor our great goddess of the earth without whose blessings our crops will not grow. You have committed a great evil....You wife was at fault..."(30) The priest doesn't condemn Okonkwo for beating his wife, but for beating her during a period of time that called for complete peace in the tribe. As of the primitive status of the tribe compared to its more civilized neighbors, perhaps the title Things Fall Apart show how this sexist community is destined to either self-destruct somehow, or to slowly evolve into a more civil home.
Wow, ok, a lot of comments and ideas to respond to.
So I think everyone pretty much agrees on seeing the animalistic qualities in this book. Marrisa said that doing this "helps to build the aura of the African envrionment as one with a variety of animals and greens everywhere." This is true, and another thing that Achebe does is add in the traditional African words. After each word, he tells us what they mean. But why doesn't he just leave them out? Marrisa's point answers that. And he also includes a glossary in the back for reference. He does this all throughout the first part of the book. Another thing that Achebe does is constantly refer to the kola-nut and the palm wine. Marrisa point can also explain this, that he does this to connect the characters to their environment. But the way I see it, Achebe does this more to connect the readers' perceptions to what typical African culture is. When I think Africa, I think safari, lions, untamed, bright colors on dark skin, desert, and so on. Achebe knows this and that is why he satifies our stereotype to create irony later on in the book.
To Marrissa's second comment about Okonkwo's personality vs. his father's. I didn't get such a great impression of Unoka as you might have. To me, not being able to provide for one's family does not justify Unoka's "happiness, joy, and peace." He was "lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow" (4). To me, that's a fine attitude to have on vacation, but Unoka was like that his whole life which lead to his early death, and not being able to be buried.
As to Okonkwo, I don't sympathize with him either. I feel that Achebe makes us want to sympathize with Okonkwo's family, (especially Ikemefuna), the receivers of his uncontrollable anger. When Achebe describes his family, some form of pathos is involved. Ikemefuna's "sad story" (12), Okonkwo's children living "in perpetual fear of his fiery temper" (13), and even when Okonkwo attempts to shoot one of his wives. Also, when Ikemefuna died, Nwoye rememers the last time he felt the way he did. It was when two twins died. He heard "an infant crying in the forest" (61) which is a parallel to Ikemefuna's death. Achebe suggests Ikemefuna's innocence in his death as well. The reader tends to always empathize with Oknonkwo's family. This is because Okonkwo hasn't shown any emotion ("weakness") which makes him stiff, and "un-sympathizable," if that's even a word, which it probably isn't.
I wanted to address Okonkwo's manliness, and his reasons for doing so. So the things that he valued as being a man were "achievement" (8), having many wives and children, "thirst for blood" (11), and seed yams, to name a few. Now, anything that a woman would do is a weakness, such as cooking, crying, telling stories without blood, and even the "idleness." Showing affection and emotion was "a sign of weakness" (28). While reading this book, I have to remember that I am an American, and what we may think is outrageous (beating of wives) is perfectly normal and acceptable to them. I think Achebe is aware of this, but I'm not sure yet how he plans to use it. Any ideas of the connection between reader and writer?
I began to notice Okonkwo's personal struggle in chapter eight. He asked himself, "How can a man who has killed five men in battle fall to pieces because he has added a boy to their number?" (65). Okonkwo has, for all this time, tried to be manly, and provide for his family. Because his father's life turned out all wrong, he tried to do the very opposite, thinking it would be right. But here, he encounters a personal struggle between mind and heart. His mind is telling him to be a man but his heart wants to break down and let some emotion show. I see Okonkwo as a good man masked by pride and the desire to do good (provide for family etc.) in a bad (aggressive, proud) way. This struggle is where I see that "Things Fall Apart" as Angel mentioned.
Ok, I wanted to bring up again the difference in culture between the characters in the story, and well, today's modern day Americans. On page 72, Achebe writes about when the suitors came to talk with Obierika about giving his daughter away for marriage. He writes, "As the men drank, they talked about everything except the thing for which they had gathered. It was only after the pot had been emptied that the suitor's father cleared his voice and announced the object of their visit." This seems extremely different to me than what I would do. It shows a contrast to today's fast-paced life where we even talk in short-cuts to get to the point. For example, I don't even like talking on the phone anymore, as it requires a greeting and good-bye. I am a fan of texting, where no real conversation takes place. Achebe is showing me a different side of his characters. I can see that they are more civilized that I am, an ironic thought coming in to read this novel.
Achebe does it again on the opposite page where he has his characters talk about the neighboring cities. Okonkwo and Obierika were talking about Abame and Aninta where "their customs are upside-down. They do not decide bride-price as [they] do, with sticks. They haggle and bargain as if they were buying a goat or a cow in the market" (73). This once again shows the clashing of cultures, this time, within their own country!
A question: Why does Okonkwo wish that Ezinma were a boy? I don't see any masculine qualities in her. She seems sweet and caring, like daddy's little girl. Why would Okonkwo want her personality to be a boy's?
Howdy folks, Matt here. I have noticed that one of the most prominent and reoccurring topics of discussion about this third of the book is the pervasiveness of sexism/ gender inequality within this tribal community. Besides the numerous instances of spousal abuse, child abuse, and sexist remarks made throughout this portion of the book, I find the practice of polygamy demonstrated in this tribe to embody the inequality theme. In this tribe, a man is often shown having multiple wives, but you would never see a wife having multiple husbands. This demonstrates to me how this culture views women not as human beings, but as items, or even collectibles. They are shown as something that can be collected, obtained, bought, and replaced at will. They can (usually) be beaten without punishment, and in actuality this custom is encouraged in the community as a way for the man of the house to assert his leadership role and "maintain order" in his house. This can be translated almost identically to view the relationship between adults and children in this society. I see one of the major themes of this portion of the novel as being the theme of INEQUALITY, more specifically, the kind of inequality that exists without any substantial rationale behind it. When I noticed the strong inequality theme and the fleeting, almost joking mention of "white" people, and took into account the title of the book (Things Fall Apart, which I highly doubt anyone would be so dense as to overlook or forget), I could not help but take it as foreshadowing. We will see what develops in later portions in the book.
One question I had to ask was:
"ARE WE EVEN SUPPOSED TO LIKE THE MAIN CHARACTER, OKONKWO?"
True, his reasons regarding his father for being strict and such a hard worker seem to be noble. At times, I find myself almost sympathizing with him. However, all too often I find myself reading the book in disgust at things he says or does. Shooting his wife. Beating his family. Blatantly disregarding his tribe's laws. Murdering his own "foster child". All in the name of trying to build up his reputation and erase the past of his father? Seems a little too harsh for me. How does everyone else view Okonkwo?
Hello, Cynthia here!
Matt, Matt, Matt...I could not agree more with your comments about this part of Things Fall Apart! I have also noticed the huge difference between the way men and women are treated within Umuofia and the surrounding villages. As much as i despice the mistreatment of women and children, sadly that is still the case in many places around the world.
One thing i noticed that really bothered me was that a man with no title in the community was called an "agbala", which is another word for woman. This use of the word implies that women are seen as inferior to men. Another thing I noticed was that the only reason Okonkwo was reprimanded for shooting at his wife was because it was the "Week of Peace". Had it been any other week, it would have been fine for Okonkwo to have beaten his wife.
A few times throughout the reading, Okonkwo has said that he wishes that Ezinma was a man. Okonkwo has aknowledged his daughter's intelligence and skills but is not proud of her or cannot show his pride beacuse she is a female. As a feminist, it does bother me a bit whenever I read about the way women are treated (ie. having to share a husband, basically being sold off to a suitor who gives enough palm wine, being beaten by the husand, and overall just having to be submissive).
In response to your question about how we feel about Okonkwo, I must admit that it's a difficult one to answer.
Okonkwo may be mean, cold-hearted stubborn, and at times too proud, but you have to aknowledge the fact that this is a man who started off at the bottom beacuse of his father's laziness, and managed to work his way to the top. He is simply an ambitious man who only wanted to create a better life for his family t hat he never had when his father was around. The man may be mean, but he does care for his children, as clearly seen in the scene where Ezinma was taken away by Chielo to see the Oracles of the Hills and Caves. Okonkwo was worried about his daughter and did not want to show it but in the end went to the cave to look out for her and Ekwefi. On page 112( the 5th paragraph) it is obvious how much Okonkwo does care abut his children.
As for how he could do certain things such as go ahead and kill Ikemefuna: it may seem cold-hearted and barbaric, but we need to understand that these customs are all part of the Umuofian tradition. Okonkwo did not want to kill his step-son but had to in order to keep with customs and retain his title within the community.
Towards the end of the first part I definitly sympathized with Okonkwo's character because he had not meant to kill Ezeudu's son, but still had to flee the community with his family. Overall, Okonkwo may not be the best man in terms of compasiona nd heart, but his strength and determination overshadow that (at least in my opinion).
In the start of the novel, Things Fall Apart, the story introduces Okonkwo, a strong, powerful, young and well-accomplished man in the village, who described in the story
has became famous for “solid personal achievements” which can be interpreted as how he would be solely recognized for his own accolades to himself not ones that profit the village. The author showcases the protagonist as a fearless and intimidating since he is known throughout villages across the land. However, he then mentions Okonkwo’s fears and disdain on pg.13: “Okonkwo was not a cruel man but his whole life was ruled by fear, the fear of failure and weakness”(13). When throughout the story, he would fear himself possessing any trait of his father, Unoka who possesses human traits such as vice to snuff and sloth, his pacifist ways, his love of music, and love for his family and especially an aura of benevolence towards his neighbors that would be translated to weakness among a belligerent and male dominated society. Okonkwo would display this personality throughout the eight chapters, especially on p.61 when he kills, the young lad, Ikemefuna, surprisingly when Okonkwo was very pleased by his presence in his life: “Dazed with fear, Okonkwo drew his machete and cut him. He was afraid of being thought weak.”
This whole situation would be interpreted as to what lengths Okonkwo will go
to preserve his image, as a warrior and as a man to his clansmen.
The characterizing traits that Okonkwo possesses in the story would be
Appropriately summarized in the start of Chapter 4, (Page 26) when the old man
spoke about Okonkwo artfully through proverbs: “Looking at the kings mouth...one
would think he never sucked at his mother’s breast”(26). This quote would be
significant to the story seeing that the reader more implications to the character of Okonkwo. For example, one could say that in the minds of his people he would seen
as a “mighty example of a strong leader” one that is seasoned in the art and practice of war and bloodshed, one who is known for his powerful stature and dominant presence
that he would never be known to have had a childhood, a time of innocence in his life,
when he would know his mother’s love to him, not ever knowing hardships, grief and embarrassment. This whole quote can also hint on the society that has made him this way. The land that has supported him can be the one that has deprived him of innocence and the love of others.
Also, notice on pg.64, When Okonkwo searches for his snuff bottle in the deep bag. The author would narrate this part of the story only to accentuate the meaning in it: How Okonkwo is slowly progressing to portray his father’s habits thus grow more nervous of his future as well as his position in the village.
Yo, its Mario. Well, it seems that the whole animal references and sexism have been beaten into the ground thus far, and I will leave my thoughts on those things until the end.
The first thing that I noticed while reading "Things Fall Apart" was the story. No, keep reading and it will be a little deeper than I am sure most of you are assuming from me. What I meant was, this story takes place in Africa in sometime that does not seem to be very present day, however the story itself is. I mean, we have a main character with a very modern day problem: resentment of his father. I thought that it was pretty neat to see that someone else in a completely different world can have a similar problem and deal with it the same way, be it savage as it is. I mean, my father was not a great man, and I know that I never want to repeat his mistakes. Okonkwo hated his father, and refused to be passive at all because that was how his father was, and his father, in his eyes, was a failure. Although, it is pretty calming to know a problem like this is universal, at the same time a little disturbing, but still, nice to know others out there are having the same problem. (I'll try to cut it out with the run on sentences, really.)
Well, lets see what can I say about the sexism and animal references that hasn't been said already? Hm, well, they do provide a nice reprieve from the story. I don't know, it seems all has been said that can be on those matters.
Anyways, to try and keep this coherent, does anyone else think that the problems presented in "Things Fall Apart" are universal? I'm interested in seeing if anyone else saw as I did.
Hey guys, it's Alinne!
I'd like to first start off by giving my insights and then answering some of our questions...
I did some research on Chinua Achebe's history and I was excited to learn that the people's names and the different clans of Umuofia were actual places in his motherland. He infused his heritage in the story, which gave it more meaning.
The character that I least like, and almost hate, is Okonkwo! It's not because he beats his wives or is so violent and sexist (that is normal in their world), but because he has a fear of being portrayed as a woman (which, I know from experience that their is absolutely NOTHING wrong with that; it's actually very awesome!!) His fear is driving him to insanity, making him do extremes, even break the clan's rules. I detest entirely that Okonkwo does not show feelings. How honest is a man if he has to hide what is the most respected aspect of a human?Achebe makes him out to be such an inhuman character that we can't help but hope that a tragic event happens in his life. I lost my respect for Okonkwo's character when he took part in killing his adopted son, Ikemefuna. Not only did Ikemefuna respond to Okonkwo as a father, but he helped in the growth of Okonkwo's eldest son Nwoye. One of the elders specially told Okonkwo to NOT help kill Ikemefuna, and what did Okonkwo do? He helped kill him! To me, that is not a sign of a "man" but the epitome of a coward. I hoped that Okonkwo suffered more for killing a person he grow to like.
As much as I do not like how Achebe incorporates all those different language words in the book, it sets the atmosphere for the book, and really helps us get into the "Umuofia Mode" as I call it. =)
1. Why is it that one of Okonkwo's wife is always referred to "Nwoye's mother?"
2. It sounds silly to ask, but considering Achebe incorporates his own past experiences in the book, does a place like Umuofia really exist? I can never image it existing...
And to answer the questions:
To Marrissa: I feel NO sympathy for Okonkwo! I do realize he built his reputation from scratch, but the way I see it, any person could have done that. I do not see him as any better than any other character in the book; in fact, i see him in a negative light. Isn't Okonkwo the only character in the book that continuously beats his wives? And Okonkwo's character is so incredibly sexist. I really detest how he only shows angry feelings towards people. I tend to believe that people's good qualities usually out way their bad characteristics, but with Olonkwo, it doesn't. Whenever he speaks in the book, I feel that he's shouting at the top of his lungs to get his point across, and I just want to get into the book and tell him to SHUT UP; THE CHARACTERS ARE NOT DEAF! (LOL) I believe that the author chooses to do this for some irony at the end of the book... As for Unoka, Okonkwo's father, I feel somewhat sympathetic towards him. Of course, he couldn't maintain a family, and he was poor, lazy, and didn't try, but the fact that he was happy, caring, and had a good humor (he did find humor when that man came to ask him for the money he owed him!), proves that unlike his son, he did have good qualities. The author gives Unoka qualities and doesn't care to save any for Okonkwo, because he wants to emphasize Okonkwo's inhuman character.
To Kris10: Okonkwo did not murder a female. The book says on page 124: "In the center of the crowd a boy lay in a cast... Okonkwo's gun had exploded and a piece of iron had pierced the boy's heart... The crime was of two kinds, male and female. Okonkwo had committed the female, because it had been inadvertent. He could return to the clan after seven years." This means that Okonkwo killed a boy of 16, and because he did it by accident he would have to leave the clan and return in seven years. Later, Achebe writes that if he had committed a male crime, which would mean that if he killed a man on purpose he would leave the clan and never be able to return.
To Katie: I also had the question of why Okonkwo wanted Ezinma to be a man. What I came to the conclusion of was that it wasn't so much that he didn't love his daughter, but he was disappointed in his son Nwoye's character. He wanted Nwoye, his eldest, to be like him. But instead he saw laziness in Nwoye and perceived him to be like a woman. On the other hand, Ezinma was seen as the perfect child. She was obedient, did her duties, and more, without complaining, was loved by many, and had beauty. To Okonkwo, Ezinma should have been a boy because she would not have embarrassed her father as much as Nwoye was; she would have lived up to his expectations of a "man."
I believe Achebe uses the beating of wives, and other elements, to emphasize difference in our society and the clan's lives. I found it greatly insulting that the clan "throws away" twins, while in reality we (Americans) desire them. This, among other absurd rules of the clan, adds to the savageness of the clan.
And to Matt: I do NOT like the main character, so I'm hoping we're not intended to! Achebe describes him in such inhuman and exaggerated, mean characteristics that if anyone out there possibly likes Okonkwo he either is from Okonkwo's clan or is sexist.
Later guys! =)
Hi everyone. First of all I want to discuss Okonkwo in relation to the village traditions. Okonkwo is made out to be a powerful and controlling man yet he, as well as his fellow villagers, are all subject to tradition, for example the gods and the value of masculinity. In a way Okonkwo can actually be seen as weak due to his compliance and submission to tradition. This is ironic because Okonkwo hates weakness and to combat weakness he clings to tradition, yet by doing so he is also submitting himself to the power of tradition.
Now to respond to Matt's question of whether or not we as readers are supposed to like Okonkwo. It's obvious that Okonkwo is not the best example of a protagonist (if you even view him as a protagonist at all). Okonkwo has character flaws such as a quick temper and an abusive, domineering nature. At the same time we must take into account that he is only following the culture of that setting and that his father inadvertently shaped his personality. When it is mentioned that Okonkwo inwardly felt affection towards Ikemefuna and Ezinma, it is obvious that deep down he really is a caring man who is simply subject to the tradition. In order to uphold the traditional image of masculinity he must suppress these emotions. He is simply a man caught between tradition along with a fear of failure and his true emotions. Ultimately, setting aside Okonkwo's flaws that were created by uncontrollable factors like culture and a poor upbringing, I just see him as man who was trying to maintain his honor and to not make the same mistakes that his father did.
To answer Alinne's first question, Nwoye is a male and as we have seen there are clear gender roles. Regardless of age, Nwoye is considered superior to his mother simply because he is a male. Perhaps Nwoye's mother is referred to as "Nwoye's mother" rather than by her name because of such gender roles. Or perhaps she is referred to in this way simply because Nwoye is a more prevalent character in the novel than the mother; therefore it is easier for the reader to know exactly who the author is referring to.
Hey Everyone!
So I thought that Mario brought up a very good point about (what seems to be) the main problem of the story being so similar to today's problems. As I keep looking throughout the text, though I tihnk the "irony" that katie may be talking about will be if we realize that this whole African culture was actually supposed to represent us. This may be a huge assumption to make form the begginning of the book,however I think that all of these animal qualities, the different lanuage, the sexist ways, maybe they all somehow display parts of our society in today's world.
I am also finding it ironic that Okonkwo rules his house with such "a heavy hand" (13) because after himself having such a hate for his father, one would assume that Okonkwo would not want his family to hate him as muh as he had hated his father. The irony here is that perhaps by beating his son to make him less like his father, Okonkwo is actually becoming more like his father at the same time.
One more comment. Could the night possibly come back to be a further theme of the book? It seemed as though the darkness is an omniscent prescence, that changes the behaviour of the tribes completely. Instead of playing in the moonlight, no one is outside (10) and "a snake was never called by its name at night, because it wouold hear. It was called a string." (9)It seems as tough the fear of the dark by these people is also somewhat ironic due to the "animal- like" manor in which he described them before. It is probably good to note here that although he does give them animal qualities, the human ones are still present, such as the common one of being scared of the dark, lets face it no other animal is scared of the dark. Also, i'd like to take this time to add that I was completely thrown away by the style of this book from the title of the cover. At first, it didn't seem as though "Things Fall Apart" would be a title to what appears to be a very cultural book on its surface. Perhaps it will play a larger role in the book, later to come.
Hello its carla
To what danny said i feel night is another theme but it alsos bring out another point as well. Alot of students have been commenting on the animalistic traits and characteristics portrayed through the characters that trait really intertwines with the theme of night because as danny had said they are portrayed like animals but are humanized through fear so another theme that i saw through those two were the struggle between learning to be what is considered a person in a world where animal traits are needed could very well be a huge part of this novel.
Alright, Kayla here. I'm not entirely sure of where to start. I guess I'd like to respond to Marrisa's question of who I feel sympathetic towards. My first answer would be neither Okonkwo or Unoka. I mean, I like Unoka more, because in our culture he'd be seen as an average, easy going guy. But in their culture, Unoka was detestable. I don't feel like he deserves to be sympathized with really. He did what he wanted to even though it was going against the norm for their culture, which is being a hard worker, where laziness is one of the worst things to be. Plus it wasn't like his life was really that bad. In fact, he seemed generally content, especially "when the village musicians brought down their instruments..." (4) He would play with them then, and that is when he was the happiest. It was said that "he loved ...the good fellowship,"(5). So, what I'm trying to say, is I don't feel sympathy towards him because he doesn't need it. Also,off the top of my head, I want to hate Okonkwo. As everyone has been saying, he's sexist, he's mean to his family, he breaks the clan rules, so on and so fourth. But if you look in one of the first chapters of the book, (the part that you begin to forget as you read the other chapters) Achebe had said that Okonkwo lived his life in fear. He was constantly afraid of looking like a woman, or ending up like his father. So really, I can sympathize with him. People do strange things out of fear, some of which translate into anger. I've noticed that the men in Okonkwo's clan aren't as harsh as he is. Okonkwo takes things and blows them out of proportion. For example, he talks about how he's worried about his twelve year old son who seems lazy. He doesn't sound lazy, that's for sure. Nwoye seems like any other twelve year old boy. He still secretly likes to hear his mother's stories, he longs to impress his father, and will help with any task he can, and he looks up to Ikemefuna as an older brother. He's not lazy, he's just still little. Men like Obierika, who is Maduka's father, seem much more laid back, but still manage to get work done. Obierika even tells Okonkwo "'You worry yourself for nothing',"(66). He's also much less violent, choosing to skip out on the killing of Ikemefuna. It makes him no less of a man, it just makes him a happier one.
Moving on to my questions. What is the significance of a kola nut in their culture? It's mentioned a lot, and it could be nothing important, but I'm guessing that the fact that it's mentioned so much means it's significant.
Responding to one of Marrisa's question to this passage: "'Your chi is very much awake, my friend. And how is my daughter, Ezinma?' 'She has been very well for some time now. Perhaps she has come to stay.' 'I think she has. How old is she now?' 'She is about ten years old.' 'I think she will stay. They usually stay if they do not die before the age of six.' 'I pray she stays,' said Ekwefi with a heavy sigh'" (48).
In my opinion, I think the ladies are referring to the fate of most children, who usually die of sickness and do not survive beyond a certain age, which happens to be six in this case. So the fact that Ezinma is of age ten now, she will probably survive until adulthood.
I also noticed a lot of animal characteristics used in by Achebe to achieve his purpose of demonstrating the characters are fierce. It's actually rather interesting as it allows the audience to visualize everything the characters are doing, from speaking to acting.
In addition, Achebe utilizes setting to foreshadow future occurrences in the story. For example, on page 9, he describes the night as being dark, quiet, dangerous, and evil. This foreshadowed the killing of one the wives of a neighbor in Umofia. But Achebe also uses it ironically with harvest time. Harvests usually represent birth and growth. However, Ikemefuna was murdered during this time, and during harvest of a previous year, Nwoye saw twin babies being left to die in a forest.
Another observation I made during the reading was that Okonkwo's life really embodies the idea of a self-made man. He grew up in a poor household where his father could make no living. As Okonkwo grew up, he used his own bare hands to work the fields, faced many difficulties, but eventually succeeded in more ways than one. He now lives a life of prosperity and honor. However, the way he treats his women and his children are definitely uncivilized in our minds. This relates back to Katie's comment of the contrast between the culture of America and Africa. The self-made man concept is definitely American, but Achebe made it African by adding the bits and pieces of how Okonkwo uses it to terrorize his family.
Also, adding on to Katie's comments about Okonkwo's beginnings of self-struggle: I noticed that this began when Ikemefuna was brought into the family household. Nobody figured that Ikemefuna would be the one to change Okonkwo, but literature like to throw its audience on a curveball. In a way, one sorts of expected Ikemefuna to be the person to change Okonkwo from a harsh man who rules through fear to one who rethinks everything he does and says. Okonkwo allowed Ikemefuna to accompany him to meetings, to eat with him at the table, and to share stories with. He has never even done this with his oldest son, Nwoye, until Ikemefuna came along. After Ikemefuna had been murdered, Okonkwo faced many sleepless nights, in which he pondered why he had suddenly changed into a "woman." He is definitely becoming a different person from the beginning of the book, yet he refuses to allow himself to do so, in fear of becoming like his father.
A theme that could arise is growth and self-realization. Okonkwo could, in the end, realizes that his way of living, through constant fear and severity, is not rewardable, even if it brought honor and prosperity.
Wow, you guys have mentioned a lot of important things so far. I thought I would add some things that didn't seem to be mentioned yet.
During the journey the men were taking to kill Ikemefuna they could hear music. They stated that it was "an ozo dance" and that ment that, "somewhere a man was taking one of the titles of his clan, with music and dancing and a great feast"(59). Shortly after this is observed Okonkwo kills Ikemefuna. This seems pretty ironic to me, one young man receiving a title in his clan (this making him manly) and Ikemefuna being killed by his "foster father" and not able to become a man.
I also think that the locusts symbolize something greater coming to Umuofia in the near future.
"And then the locusts came. It had not happened for many a long year. The elders said locusts came once in a generation, reappeared every year for seven years and then disappeared for another lifetime. They went back to their caves in a distant land, where they ere guarded by a race of stunted men. And then after another lifetime these men opened the caves again and the locusts came to Umuofia"(54).
The locusts come so rarely that it seems that them appearing now in the book may mean that something greater is to follow.
hey guys!!!!
well while reading "Things fall apart" and all of your comments I came to a dilemma between both marrisa's and katie's views on Unoka and Oknokwo. I agree with both opinions but it is kind of difficult to chose a side because as katie said "He was 'lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow" (4) all the way up to his death. But also I sympathize with Marrisa's comment about Unoka being "a man who loved to live in the moment, enjoying the present and not stressing the future. He is not a saver, but rather a spender..." Both opinions are great so I came to a conclusion that it is not so important to focus on Unoka's personality but instead on Okonkwo. Oknokwo demonstrates to be a tough men who many fear, even his own son, Nwoye. His personality foreshadows trouble for him and his family as he contines to not had "patience with unsuccessful men" (4) and "laziness" (13). Oknokwo feels so superior from everyone else that it will get him in trouble very soon, risking his prosperity and his family. The way he understimates everyone around him may cause him a big surprise in the future, for example his own son. Oknokwo sees Nwoye as a lazy kid and he is constantly "nagging and beating" (14) him. And instrad of correcting him, Oknokwo might be creating a monster worse than him.
Okonkwo shaped his image to represent everything his father was not- to generally serve as his antithesis. He built a comfortable lifestyle in spite of the fact that he "did not have the start that many young men usually had. He did not inherit a barn from his father..." (16), his desire- even mania to sever himself from his father's image created a severe flaw in Okonkwo. He is characterized as unyielding perhaps even savage who places impossible expectations on himself and others to prevent idleness/sloth. He himself even admits to these impractical expectations at one point, "Inwardly, Okonkwo knew that the boys were still too young to understand fully the difficult art of preparing seed-yams" yet he refused to excuse any of Nwoye and Ikemefuna's errors declaring, "He would stamp out the disquieting signs of laziness which he thought he already saw in" them (33). I must note Michaela's analysis of Okonkwo, in the sense that he can not be truly culpable for his actions, bound to both tradition and his own demons about being regarded as effiminate- thus squelching his own sentiments. For example, Okonkwa was as distraught as his 2nd wife Ekwefi concerning their daughter Ezinma the night she was taken to the Caves. He was "gravely worried" (112) and went searching for them. Clearly, Okonkwa expressed a form of paternal love then and again when he felt remorse over Ikemefuna. Regardless of the fact that Unoka had an adverse effect on his son, it is clear that Unoka over perhaps any other person tragically influenced him.
I would also like to note the language employed throughout the book. Along with the Igbo words used, the characters frequently use their own adages while engaging in conversation. Even within the first few pages this is exemplified- ie, "When the moon is shining the cripple becomes hungry for a walk," (10). As Alinne emphasized, the language creates atmosphere and a broader, richer picture of the culture that is being discussed.
I'm curious if anyone has any thoughts / predictions of what is to become of the family now that they've become exiled from the tribe. Even to return 7 years later, they likely will still return humiliated. Their lives seem to be irrevocably changed from this one inadvertent death.
sincerely, tzivia
(I don't think I established who I was while I commented for the other books, woops)
Hi guys its Annie.
I enjoy this book so far, I find it fascinating how different cultures value things so differently. Example the death of Ikemefuna was done so swiftly and fiercely as if emotions do not exsist. However when Okonkwo disurbs the "Week of Peace", the people suddenly look down upon him and are extremely disappointed. They also become hypocrites when they kill poor Ikemefuna. They refered to the young girl murdered as "a daughter of Umuofia"(11) and her killers as "sons of wild animals"(11). Then they themselves turn into the wild animals and murder the son of another village. It seems as though it is just a vicious cycle in their community. Violence seems to be promoted everywhere. The most exciting part of their new year celebration "was the day of the great wrestling match"(39). Okonkwo gives his second wife "a sound beating"(38), this on more than one occasion.
Another point that seems to come up is the hatred that Okonkwo has built up for his father. Achebe even says that Okonkwo was "possessed by the fear of father contemptible life and shameful death."(18) That is exactly what Okonkwo fears. He may hate his father but he was more embarassed by him then anything. And that is what Okonkwo fears, that vulnerability to laziness. He doesnt want his children to face the same shame that he did. As much as it seems that he dislikes them or that he doesn't care but he really just wants more for them. Also although Unoka was lazy he "loved it all"(5). He was a happy man. That is more than Okonkwo can say he is miserable.
The thing I don't understand is why he is so dissappointed that Enzinma "should have been a boy"(64). Why can't he just accept her as a strong female? It seems like to him that in no way can a women ever be as strong as a man. What is it about women that Okonkwo hates so much.
"Things Fall Apart" is a very vivid and violent book. Okonkwo shows many repressed memories of his father and than uses these memories to show his emotions, which aren't much.Okonkwo only shows violence in order to show the world that he will never become like his father, someone who had always been in debt and so called lazy. His violence is shown by beating his wife over a late meal on a very religious and important week, the week of peace. Another example would be how he beats his elder son because he believes that he shows signs of laziness and it reminds Okonkwo of his deceased father. It's like he wants to show the world that he is not weak and in control by doing these such things.
Another comment would be the reference to which their entire community follow. They seem very religious by following all these God's and only planting Yams on certain days and occasions. Like everything they do is so precise and in accordance with these God's that they worship. The culture of their society really is shown everywhere in every line of the story. However, agreeing with some customs they seem to have ultimate respect for them. Religion is a main focus that Achebe really utilizes.
Hello, Vanessa here. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe seemed like a very interesting book, but I began to flip through it and I realized all of the foreign words that are utilized in the novel. I have to admit, I was a little scared to start reading the book. I thought, how am I going to remember all of the words and their meanings as I read...? But, as I read on, I was so engulfed in the story that I completely forgot of my worries.
But yes, along with most of you, I noticed that Achebe does use animalistic characteristics when describing or introducing a character. The people of Umuofia are polytheistic and that could have something to do with it, especially the god of the earth. I agree with Marrisa about the idea of being one with the earth. The animals indeed are part of the earth and to have such qualities are a plus.
Okonkwo's father reminds me a lot of Aureliano Segundo in One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Aureliano Segundo loved to throw endless parties and celebrate with his neighbors serving liquor. Okonkwo's father Unoka was the same way. "...he immediately bought gourds of palm-wine, called round his neighbors and made merry," (4). This is exactly what Aureliano did too, the only difference was that Aureliano was prosperous while Unoka was not.
I can see why Okonkwo is so very ashamed of his father, but then again, it's not improving himself in the positive ways because the way he thinks affects all those around him. It has gotten so far that his emotions are hidden DEEP down inside and he rarely expresses it. Usually he's out hitting or threatening someone. The reason why I say this is because in his village, men are suppose to be strong physically and mentally. If a man is not strong, they call him an "agbala", a woman. Also, he is determined to prove that he is not his father, that he is quite the complete opposite. "He was a wealthy farmer and had two barns full of yams, and had just married his third wife," (8). Not only was he rich, but he was greatly respected because of his strength (and feared too) after defeating Amalinze the Cat in a wrestling match. But, his father was "...lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow. If any money came his way, and it seldom did, he immediately bought gourds of palm-wine..." (4). This is self-explanatory. But is Okonkwo really as strong as he everyone thinks he is? I thought about it because he's only being this way because he's afraid of what people think of him and gaining "the title" among his village. He says that fear is weakness, but the fear is already in himself. Also, I hadn't thought about it until Marrisa mentioned it. She says that he is losing his joy and happiness at the same time. I also agree with the cycle that Nwoye will end up hating his father. The way Nwoye was growing up, I sensed some of Unoka in him, too. "Okonkwo's first son, Nwoye, was then twelve years old but was already causing his father great anxiety for his incipient laziness. At any rate, that wasw how it looked to his father, and he sought to correct him by constant nagging and beating. And so Nwoye was developing into a sad-faced youth," (14). He's lazy like his grandfather and the persistant nagging of Okonkwo isn't making the situation any better either.
Last, I also find it interesting of Okonkwo's fondness of Ezinma. He wishes that "she would have been a boy" (64) because she has the qualities to do so. But, Nwoye loved his mother's stories about the village. Maybe Nwoye should've been the girl because Okonkwo, while visiting his friend Obierika, says, "I am worried about Nwoye. A bowl of pounded yams can throw him in a wrestinling match," (66). Okokwo is basically saying that his son is weak and weakness is considered a woman's characteristic. I just think it's ironic how she should've been the boy and how he should've been the girl.
I think Matt brought up a good point about Okonkwo. Are we suppose to like this guy? I think that were are suppose to just learn a lesson that Achebe establishes through this character. Instead of disliking Okonkwo, I feel sorry for him. He is missing out a whole lot on life because of his determination to be a man and not being called an agbala.
To what Danny said, I think that night is an important symbol to the story and compared the significance of night time to that of the book 'The Crucible' where the forest, especially at night was considered to be filled with evil.
I also have comparisons of this part of the book to the other two books we had to read this summer.
One Hundred Years of Solitude- Okonkwo reminds me of Jose Aureliano Buendia and how they both did not show slight interests in their sons unless the sons participated in things that interested the men. Okonkwo did not want anything to do with Nwoye until he wanted to help with the harvewsting. This is like when Jose Aureliano Buendia was distant from his family until his son Aureliano Buendia shows interest in all the inventions his father had in his lab. Both men were looked up to by their sons but did not seem to notice until the sons conformed into doing what they wanted.
The Remains of the Day- I also compared a father/son realtionship but this time it was Stevens and Stevens Sr. being contrasted to Okonkwo and his father Unoka. In 'The Remains of the Day' Stevens looks up to his father and aims to be just like him because he embodies the definition of 'dignity' and a 'great butler' but a complete difference is how Okonkwo wishes to be nothing like his father and aims to live his life the exact opposite of his. Both Stevens and Okonkwo do not show any emotion when their father dies because they want to show their strength and keep their respected status.
To what a couple of people were saying about their feelings towards Okonkwo, I am not sure yet whether I like him or not. Agreeing with others, I was turned-off by some of the things he said and did throughout the story, but I think readers have to look at Okonkwos past before they can definately say they do not like this character. Okonkwo has been supporting himself and his family since he was young. He also had to rely on himself for anything he needed. This tough past would make a man have a lot of anger inside of him. I do feel a sort of dislike for Okonkwo but also I feel sympathy for him.
Since we’re all making introductions; Rorschach here, not smashing in heads tonight so I figured I’d blog a bit.
As I read, I was indulged in the spiritual and cultural aspect of the novel more than anything else.
For example on the spiritual aspect during the wrestling match, “the drummers stopped to rest….They became ordinary humans again, talking and laughing among themselves…” When such joyous festivals are held, the people become possessed by a greater being or force and change. I see them as just being possessed by a spirit. For example, many of you I know play sports and during a game, you, yourself become someone else on the field. And I treat their transformation from ordinary human to “animalistic” as such. So now I bring my attention the term “animalistic”, that many of you have mentioned. I see the term “animalistic” being used quite negatively. For example, “ ; as mentioned by many of you. Many of you however, have you used the term animalistic in a negative sense and as many of you have said.
“Achebe's constant use of animalistic descriptions for the characters in Things Fall Apart is to show that these people are "uncivilized". To show that these people are "uncivilized", Achebe compares them to animals. Achebe also exemplifies how “uncivilized” the people are by showing that they are not modernized; shows Okonkwo’s inability to use a gun, a tool used in the modern world.”
I disagree and see this as normal personification and shouldn’t be read in too deeply, that these people are “uncivilized”. Such statements are ridiculous ideas forced on to us by the white man who apparently, as all of you have stated unconsciously, has the power to juristic what is “civilized” and “uncivilized”. The people of Umuofia are quite civilized. They have laws and titles; like in many civilizations, there is a hierarchy and Umuofia exemplifies this. However, because the culture is so different that to outsiders it may seem uncivilized. Although I do not condone the slaying of another man, sacrifices have gone on in many civilizations. From The Egyptians, Greeks, to the even Anglo-Saxons (The Bible; animal sacrifice), to any other civilization you can think of. Another point that I would like to make is, when has being able to use a gun been a symbol of modernization and civilization? When as we’ve discussed, the killing of another person is “uncivilized” and the use of a gun can either be for protection or attack, either way someone is injured or killed.
Reading Things Fall Apart was such a thrill for me because of the cultural connection. Many of you don’t know this but I’m from Nigeria. Some of the festivals mentioned I’ve been a part of; such as a burial ceremony. But what’s thrilling for me is finding out aspects of my culture that I’ve never been aware of. And those aspects of my culture have probably been lost overtime but knowing is wonderful. I’ve also had locust and it’s not too bad; quite tasty. I’ve also had a lot of the foods the characters eat. If anyone was interested about the different foods and would like to try some, I wouldn’t mind bringing it in.
Hey everyone! Stephen here (just in case you didn't know).
I noticed that many people have picked up the contrast between the noble and "offensive" qualities in Okonkwo. His "noble" qualities include his work ethic, and his "offensive" qualities include his domestic/spousal/child abuse, his sexism, and his relationship with his children. I would like to comment on these qualities, and perhaps draw a conclusion. I have noticed that many of us (meaning 21st century Americans)immediately judge Okonkwo, and the society of Umuofia through the lens of our society. We are, of course, outraged when Okonkwo beats his wives, we immediately view this society as "primitive" based on their obvious sexism, their polygamy, the fact that they live in 'huts' and so on. However, like rorschach, I find fault with this reasoning. Many of the differences between their world and ours are, as many of you pointed out, cultural. Okonkwo beats his wife (and the village priest agrees with the beating in principle, admitting, "Your wife was at fault..." (30), while condemning the TIMING of the beating). Okonkwo is sexist (along with every other adult male in the village). And Okonkwo rules his household with an iron fist. All of these facts are undeniable. However, in his society, all of these qualities are considered virtues. Beating your wife and kids was a sign of discipline. The people of Umuofia would never have dreamed of a female dominated society because culturally, it would be against nature for them. Thus, sexism. Killing the war hostage of your community, regardless of emotional attachment, was considered right and proper. Conversely, in our society, beating your wife and kids is a vice (it's called "domestic violence" and you can go to jail for it). So is sexism. So, in reading Things Fall Apart, I think that we should remind ourselves that cultural differences should be viewed within the lens of the society of Umuofia, no matter how much they may make us want to reach into the book to stop Okonkwo from beating his kids.
That being said, like rorschach, I can't help but see the "civility" of Umuofia. Umuofia has laws, a religion, traditions, a stratified social class system, and a system of currency. That seems pretty "civilized" to me. They don't have sewage systems, large cities, and air conditioning, but I don't count these attributes as a marker of civilization anyway.
Some qualities are universal. Our society has "traditions" and mores that everyone is conscious of (Go to college, get a good job, feed and house your spouse and kids, grow old, and die. Oh, and some community service along the way). Our society has values, some of which are identical to Umuofia's (hard work, suspicion of laziness, providing for one's children, etc.). The goal that Okonkwo is striving for is identical to most of the goals of modern society: provide for one's family, become successful.
So, with all cultural differences aside, are Okonkwo's goals of becoming successful and becoming a leader of his community all that inconcievable to the modern man?
Achebe published this book in the 1950s, in a relatively modern society. In writing about this society(which exists in the colonial era), is Achebe trying to make an alien society more understandable to us by connecting the reader to a character (Okonkwo) that shares similar goals and fears of failure (despite obvious cultural differences)? What do you think?
Hey! Joe is back in America pumped to do his Lit homework!
I have to agree with everyone with their analysis on Okonkwo. He has definitely proved to be a complicated character mainly because I have mixed feelings towards this character. The act of earning everything he has now by his own hard work is a respectable feat, however of course he has many more negative qualities that aggravate me because I feel like such a respectable man should have a parallel personality. Okonkwo is a short tempered, violent man. These two qualities do not make up a people-person, but because of the experiences this main character goes through kind of forces the reader to appreciate him and even pity him especially after the death of Ikemefuna. Well, after all the set backs that Okonkwo faces in his life, it still does not change the fact that he does not deal well with others.
A huge part of this first section was getting a feel for the Nigerian Tribe's culture which dictates actions in everyday life. For example, what the oracle commands, the tribe follows through. A few people have titled this tribe's culture as uncivilized and that's certainly understandable coming from society such as ours. However, something to look at would be the end of chapter 8 where we can see a view at our culture from a different perspective, "It is like the story of white men who, they say, are white like this piece of chalk..."(74) Well it is apparently surprising to them to see a man white as a piece of chalk for self explanatory reasons. What I'm trying to say is that their culture is not uncivilized, it is simply different. I see a few have already responded to this suggestion, something i would like to add would be, when reading the rest of this story do not think of this culture as something lower than our culture but something different. This means the tribe is neither better nor worse just unique.
Also, a few people have mentioned the use of qualities of animals throughout the first section. I disagree that they are used to show that the people are uncivilized but more importantly, at least in terms of Okonkwo since the examples used are specific to Okonkwo, it adds to his character. Okonkwo, since the beginning pages, has been depicted as a very intimidating person. This is why i feel like the author also included that he had been the greatest wrestler of his time, it only adds to his intimidating character. Being like an animal in a ring means you are stronger than man. Even in plain speech we use the same language, for example, "you were a beast today!" is an expression we use and is merely a compliment not really an insult.
Now to touch on Stephen's question! As of right now, i feel like Achebe is doing exactly as you say, "trying to make an alien society more understandable to us by connecting the reader to a character (Okonkwo) that shares similar goals and fears of failure." Seeing that our cultures are so different, AChebe can connect the reader with the main character through the same human qualities that all of us share, one of those would be fear. Through the connection created between Okonkwo and the reader, Okonkwo sort of facilitates the cultural learning through the ways in which the culture of the tribe impacts him.
thank you everyone for reading!
stevie and rorschach summed up what I was going to say on that subject, so I'll move on.
It was mentioned earlier that there is a striking similarity in both cultures, the "American" culture and the "Nigerian" culture, despite the obvious differences. One similarity being, as stevie had mentioned, the goal of succeeding and providing for one's family. As a first-generation American I can definitely relate to the desire and the pressure to be financially stable enough to support not only myself and my family but my parents and grandparents as well.
However, as everyone most likely noticed, Okonkwo has some glaring faults in his character. His intense masculinity (which is most likely due to the environment's influence, but is another discussion) is fueled by fear, which is a shaky foundation to build anything upon. What's interesting is not that he has these traits, but the sneaking suspicion that Achebe is presenting Okonkwo's story more universally than it at first seems. For, despite the fact that the setting has changed, Umuofia has a lot of similarities to our society, like a hierarchy of titles and wars and laws and even a court with judges (90). Town criers have replaced the e-mails and phone calls of our society. So, the point is that while it looks different, what is essentially being said can be applied to all of us.
Perhaps Okonkwo's downfall is not just a tragic story but a lesson.
Oh, and P.S.: I read all of Part One of the book, even though it's disproportionate.
While beginning this book I became very aware of the strong sense of tradition, and I can't help but recall Fiddler on the Roof (being the drama geek that I am). The go through the same process every time someone visits another person's hut. What is plainly evident is the fear of weakness and ending up like his father, buried in the Evil Forest.
I predict that, similar to "A Hundred Years of Solitude" , his worst fear is going to come true.
His idea of weakness is not only laziness, but being "a woman". This is ingrained in his culture and religion. Just as "How To Read Literature Like a Professor" mentioned, religion always affects literature whether the author believes in it or not. This story is so rich in culture and tradition, it is impossible not to include god as well.
I do not know Achebe's mythic background, or religious beliefs, but this seems as if though it has been adapted from an african fairy tale or religious story of the sort.
As the novel begins, Achebe wastes no time in introducing Okonkwo as a powerful and prestigious character who is "well known throughout the nine villages and beyond." (3) I also have noticed the savagely and almost barbaric characteristics that Achebe associates him with. The animal-like descriptions sets the novel in a world that though seems organized by their religious belief in gods and spirits, is in fact uncivilized. The irony at work seems to be seen throughout the novel, as with the relationship and feelings Okonkwo holds towards his father. I find his hatred and intolerance with "unsuccessful men" and "his father" (4) to be the stem of an inevitable downfall. It is this intolerance that leads him to do everything and anything to avoid following the footsteps of his father who died as a disgrace without gaining any titles in the village. Though his motivations lead him to success, his obsession to avoid becoming his father leads him to become a man who lacks morality, sympathy and sentimentality. He is so blinded by the goal of becoming the total opposite of his father that he ignores all conscience. He is under the false impression that through abuse towards his wife, that through strict training of his children, and that through holding back his emotions he is powerful and he is respected. However, it is clear that beneath the facade that he displays for the world, he is a weak man trying to hide his insecurities about his shameful upbringing.
I find that the yams maybe in fact a symbol of Okonkwo himself. He like the yams, the most important and prized crop, holds a prestigious position in his village. However, the fate of the yams may be a foreshadowing of the fate of Okonkwo himself as “yams of the old year were all disposed of...the new year must begin with tasty, fresh yams and not the shrivelled and fibrous crop of the previous year.” (36) Through the life of the yams, it can be seen that though one may experience a period of glory, it is inevitable that that surreal moment is bound to come to a close. When one’s purpose becomes useless, one is sure to be cast aside, without regards to one’s prior status or accomplishments. Okonkwo’s strives for perfection in his yams as he “looked at each yam carefully” (32) just as he leaves no room for weakness in his life. His life in fact is dominated by this fear of being weak, which is ironic since this is his greatest weakness.
Nwoye can be viewed as the living version of Okonkwo’s fear and Ikemefuna on the other hand maybe symbolic of the ideal image he holds for what he sees as a strong man. However, when Okonkwo becomes the one to kill Ikemefuna, he in a way is killing that unrealistic ideal he has held. After the murder, we are able to catch a glimpse of the humane side of Okonkwo in which his guilt sent a “cold shiver [that] descended on his head and spread down his body.” (63)
My first reaction to this book, was that just looking at the title, "Things Fall Apart", that this wasn't going to be a book with a happy ending, where the main character would realize something that would change his life for the better, but where it would end with a death. Personally, I don't like books without happy endings, probably the reason why i don't like watching scary movies. This book was actually quick reading and probably my favorite out of the four books.
On the first page, right at the beginning, Achebe immediately describes Okonkwo using words that showed his masculinity, how he is well- known for his victory of defeating Amalinze, who had gone undefeated for seven years. As the reading continues, like Marrisa had said, there is gender inequality, which stuck out to me more than the animal qualities. So gender inequality... Okonkwo, like many people of third world countries, probably close to all, believe that males are the head of the household and women have A LOT of limitations in the clan, so i was not surprised: however, i was surprised when i read that men of high status have multiple wives and that they are fine with being one of the wives. Who would want to marry a man that "was tall and huge, and his bushy eyebrows and wide nose gave him a severe look... and he did pounce of people quite often...and whenever he was angry and could not get his words out quickly enough, he would use his fists."(4)? Gender inequality was apparent when men with no titles were called "agbala", which meant also meant women. To most people of the clan, not having a title meant that one was immasculine, which i would side with Cynthia on.
I agree with Courtney about the locusts. After the locusts came, there seem to be bad luck for Okonkwo and his family.
Okonkwo is very huberous.(does that make sense? hahah sorry, i wanted to use a better word than full of pride) He cares more about that the village would think about him, than what would be right. For example, the situation with Ikemefuma. Okonkwo inwardly was fond of him and let him call him Father. With that, the day the village decided to kill Ikemefuma, Okonkwo was told to not take part of the killing. As Ikemefuma was about to be killed, he ran to Okonkwo, and Okonkwo, trying not to seem "weak" killed Ikemefuma instead. Okonkwo had a goal of earning all four titles Umuofia had to offer. Only one person came close to that and it was the oldest person in the clan with three titles and he wanted to excede that and be the "best man in the world". With all this pride, i agree with Angela that this book has reminded me of "Antigone", which i predict that Okonkwo will have a downfall. I agree with Courtney about the locusts. After the locusts came, there seem to be bad luck for Okonkwo and his family.
When Okonkwo had killed Ikemefuma and saw Nyowe watching him walk back, Nyowe felt something he only felt once before in his life, when he discovered that twins that were just born had to be thrown in the forest. He felt that "something had given way in him, like the snapping of a tightened bow... He just hang limp." (61)
A comment to what Marisa stated about the the clan being "uncivilized": even though they follow old tradition and customs, and normally fight with knives, they have been introduced to guns, so they really arn't that uncivilized.
Also, to comment about Danny's comment, what he said about since his father treated him poorly, he should want to treat his family better: well, like i said before, the clan is very traditional, which i have come to see it as full of pride, and to Okonkwo, treating his family for a "better life" would be to bring it honor, through titles, and and status.
Right off the bat Chinua Achebe gives an an ambiance of tradition using Ibo words and phrases. And through their traditions, the Igbo community are shown to be peaceful and quite sophisticated and intelligent. Achebe writes, "Among the Igbo the art of conversation is regarded very highly, and proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten." (7). I would have to say that I disagree with what Angel said about Achebo using animal imagery to portray the Igbo as uncivilized but instead to emphasize their sense of tradition and culture. Igbos also use animals in parallel to themselves in fables and each tribes has their own fables which then separates the tribes and forces the reader to see them separately instead of as one big community.
Gender role is very apparent in "Things fall apart" as Achebe uses it as a way to interpret multiple meanings of "masculinity". I found it very ironic how Okonkwo, who views masculinity in the traditional sense (measured in strength and showing little to no emotion), favors Ezinma the most out of his children even though she is a female. He even states that it would've been better if she were born a man.
Wow… reading the blogs before me was a workout, but I recognize that it’s my fault procrastinating yet again.
Moving on, let me start by commenting on the two topics that everyone else has: animal imagery and gender roles. (Hmm… what’s the opposite of personification, animalification? For our purposes let’s call it animal imagery.)
Anyway, the animal imagery is certainly very prominent in the text but I had never seen it the way most others here have. I assumed as Marrisa did that all of the animal imagery was used simply for the reason of developing the setting and the characters. I strongly disagree (sorry) with Angel, Malsa and others in saying that Achebe uses animal imagery to instill in the reader the sense that the people of Umuofia are uncivilized in anyway. One need only turn to the “about the author” section of the book (located towards the back) to see that a man educated in African cultures and studies would seldom be heard classifying any world-culture as uncivilized.
Personally, I believe Achebe’s purpose in using the animal imagery is two-fold: to symbolize manliness (a quality that is very clearly stressed in this novel) and to stress the richness of the Umuofian and other tribal cultures. Firstly, Okonkwo, the epitome of the stereotypical manly-man, is often described using animal like qualities. He is described as “pouncing” and “roaring” much like a cheetah (as Ashley8 observed) or as a lion (as Taylor did).
Secondly, I believe that the tone and mood created by the animal-ification is used to stress the richness of the tribal culture. A passage that Paul beat me to that struck me as literary genius was when Achebe wrote “Among the Igbo the art of conversation is regarded very highly, and proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten” (7) describing the richness of the Umuofian language (and I believe, civilization). Though not directly animal imagery in itself, this passage is enhanced, as are many others, by the animalistic tone.
To move on to gender roles in the novel, I was initially struck by the immense inequalities between men and women in this book. However, I disagree with Marrisa, Matt, Cynthia, Alinne and many others in saying that Okonkwo is a distinctly evil person for his beliefs that women are in some way inferior to men. Though I disagree with Okonkwo’s belief on this topic, I do not hold him at any fault for his belief as it is so prominent in their culture and in many if not most African and other foreign cultures (sadly even today).
Responding to Mario’s question: yes there is a universal appeal to this novel. We are all conflicted by certain things portrayed so far, whether that be issues with a parent or an issue conforming to what society expects of us. I personally do not believe Okonkwo is a bad person but is made to act the way he does (killing what became a son to him just to please a clan) by one of the most ancient and universal of all evils: peer pressure.
To end on a bit of a depressing note, I am afraid that since the novel is titled “Things Fall Apart” it foreshadows a terrible event in the village or a terrible event happening to Okonkwo’s family. What I think this is, for some reason, is Okonkwo’s entire village or just him being taken from their tribe and brought to work as slaves across the Atlantic. I am not sure why I think this, just a feeling I am getting… it feels that things are going a bit too smoothly for the village as a whole.
Thanks Everyone, I loved reading the blogs!
-Dario
To reply to what And The Benefactor Is... Dario said, yes things are moving too smoothly but there has been a few foreshadows of the fults of his manlyness. This was very apparent in chapter 4 of his style in dealing with less successful men. He was easily able to "kill a man's spirt" (28) by saying "this meeting is for men." His lack of ability for tolerance made him somewhat unlikeable in the meeting. During the Week of Peace, he was also unable to control himself from beating his wife. Eventually, as jlam09 stated, things really do falls apart when he ruins his name by killing Ezeudu's son by accident.
As for the cave event, I was very pleased when he came along with Ekwefi. It felt like the purpose of that event is to show that he is still a human. Even though he never said it, he left for the cave because he started to worry. I really do wish him to show his emotions without him worring that it might look like less of a man.
So far, what I see of this book is a story of a man who wished to escape his father's failure. He wantgs to restore honor to his blood. He hides his fear of failing with his anger. He hides his weakness by trying to make those around him weaker than him. Also, to comment on Marissa's blog, yes, Achebe does seem to use nature and animals to describe the people and place of the story. I think this is to try to bring the reader back to a time before technology, when the animals were known as the strongest, the most feared, not humans. I could not say that I connected with the story, because this sense of "one-ness" with the earth seemed forced, and it took my attention away from the story. I also see that Okonkwo's harshness will come back to be his tragic flaw.
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