things fall apart analysis Flashcards
What is the narrative structure of Things Fall Apart?
It follows a cyclical pattern chronicling Okonkwo’s youth, exile, and return home.
The three parts of the novel correspond to Okonkwo’s fatherland, motherland, and back to fatherland.
What does the gender structured in Things Fall Apart represent?
It contrasts Okonkwo’s obsession with masculinity through his journey from fatherland to motherland and back.
This structure highlights his struggles with traditional gender roles.
What is Okonkwo’s main internal conflict throughout the novel?
He suffers from a feeling of relentless emasculation despite his efforts to gain status.
This conflict leads to his downfall and that of Umuofia.
What is the significance of Ikemefuna in Part One of Things Fall Apart?
Ikemefuna becomes Okonkwo’s surrogate son, whose execution leads to Okonkwo’s moral conflict.
Okonkwo’s decision to kill him despite warnings reflects his fear of weakness.
How does Okonkwo’s obsession with masculinity affect his relationships?
It alienates him from his wives and children, leading to a precarious social position.
His quick temper and impatience contribute to these strained relationships.
What cultural aspects does Part One of Things Fall Apart showcase?
It provides a view of Igbo cultural values, religious beliefs, and ritual practices.
This context helps the reader understand the Igbo world before colonial influences.
What tragic event occurs during Ogbuefi Ezeudu’s burial?
Okonkwo’s gun misfires, killing Ezeudu’s son, which results in Okonkwo’s exile.
This incident marks the beginning of Okonkwo’s downfall.
What does Okonkwo’s exile symbolize in the context of the novel?
It represents a deeply emasculating retreat to his mother’s kin, paralleling cultural emasculation due to colonialism.
His exile is seen as a punishment for committing a ‘feminine’ crime.
What major change occurs in Okonkwo’s family during his exile?
His eldest son, Nwoye, abandons traditional Igbo beliefs and joins the Christian faith.
This causes Okonkwo to disown Nwoye, signifying a rupture in his patrilineal line.
How do the changes in Umuofia affect Okonkwo’s return?
He finds deep internal divisions and a compromised homecoming due to the presence of foreigners and missionaries.
These changes thwart his hopes for a fresh start.
What was Okonkwo’s view of the British presence in Umuofia?
He sees the British as a cancer that will eventually destroy Umuofia.
Others in the village view the British as providing resources and education.
What final acts of violence does Okonkwo commit?
He commits murder and suicide, which cements the novel’s tragedy.
These acts are deeply tied to his understanding of masculinity and honor.
What does suicide represent in the context of Igbo law?
It is an unspeakable act that strips Okonkwo of all honor, despite not being explicitly coded as ‘feminine’.
His suicide denies him a proper burial, emphasizing his final emasculation.
