Pride- A Deadly Sin

The last part of Things Fall Apart demonstrates the extent of Okonkwo’s unwillingness to change and highlights several ironies throughout the novel.

After being arrested and beaten by the missionaries, Okonkwo’s anger and resentment for them increased exponentially. As a brutal and violent man who often beat his wives and children, it is ironic that when he faced the same acts of cruelty, he found them intolerable. “…He thought about the treatment he had received in the white man’s court, and he swore vengeance” (199). Another irony that exists in the novel centers on Okonkwo’s last act as a man. He chose to commit suicide and shirked the consequences of his actions. Despite being a man that deeply advocated for masculinity and mental and physical strength, his last act on earth is considered one of cowardice, in American culture and in his culture.

Part three of the novel also shows the wrongdoings of western people. Achebe used characters like Mr. Brown, Reverend Smith, the Commissioner, and the messengers to represent the virtues and the immoralities of western culture. Mr. Brown represented the merits of western society and the civility, compassion, and opportunity that can be offered to less privileged societies. However, most of the novel’s westernized characters demonstrated the worst of human nature. Reverend Smith is used as a foil to Mr. Brown. He wanted to annihilate the established culture in the village while Mr. Brown simply wanted to enhance it with Christianity and education. The messengers represented the corruption inevitable in a society that is not ruled by fear, and the Commissioner represented the arrogance and self interest that many people in modern societies exhibit. “He had already chosen the title of the book…The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger” (209).

Unexpectedly, Okonkwo and the Commissioner are very alike. Both of their actions are driven by pride: the most present sin in the novel.

People of western society have committed the atrocities described in the book. This picture of a Native American that was "civilized" shows this dark part of American history.

Blog Post 4

Nwoye’s transition to Christianity is quite understandable. He has been pushed away by his tribe since the abandonment of the twin babies and the killing of Ikemefuna. Since these events he has not been fully committed to the tribe. “Something had given away inside him.”(Pg 62). The arrival of the missionaries just gave Nwoye the outlet to convert from his native religion. Since he did not really believe in their religion, he felt like an outcast in Umofia. This allows him to fit in extremely well at the Christian church as most of the members are outcasts in society. Nywoye’s conversion really hurts Okonkwo. But does Nywoye’s conversion hurt Okonkwo because his son cannot be a great clansman or because it hurts his own reputation.

The rulers of Mbanta and Okonkwo both have the same views of the Christian church and they understand the problems it causes. Despite this, the tribe allows to church to exist and does not resort to violence. Okonkwo objects to this as he feels violence is the answer. This shows that Okonkwo is willing to go against the tribe’s morals to preserve them. This again goes back to Okonkwo's fear of weakness. He does not want to look weak by letting the “enemy” convert his people so he would rather resort to violence. He believes that Umofia would have used violence because the “men were bold and warlike” (Pg 162).

http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/africa/features/storyofafrica/11chapter6.shtml

How many Africans converted to Christianity. 

Blog Post 4

                By the second half of the novel, the main conflict of the story is revealed. European settlements and missionaries interfere with the Ibo society. Events within these interferences result in the downfall of Umuofia along with Okonkwo. Achebe also includes a major theme and irony within these last few chapters.

            The clash of cultures between the Ibo and western society is inevitable and predictable. The real matter is the villagers' response to these foreign missionaries. Just as people from first world countries will find the Ibo practices to be absurd, most members of the Ibo think the Christians are crazy. One of them is Okonkwo, who “was convinced that the [missionary] was mad” (pg. 147). However, there is another group of people that accepts the missionary as its alternate sanctuary. These people are rejected by the Ibo society (outcasts) or disagree with certain customs. Nwoye is part of this group. He questions the fate of “the twins crying in the bush and…Ikefuna who was killed” (pg. 47).  As time progress, the missionaries begin to disprove each one of the Ibo beliefs. Citizens in Umuofia realize the falseness of their practice and question it.

            The theme that ignorance leads to violence and failure is shown multiple times throughout the end of the novel. The first instance is the news about Abame. A white man “riding an iron horse” greets the dwellers of Abame. Instead of leaving the man alone, they kill him because they do not understand him and the Oracle tells them that he brings harm. Even Uchendu admits, “Those men of Abame were fool. What did they know about the man?” (pg. 140). Another example of ignorance is Okonkwo’s treatment to Nwoye. Instead of persuading his son to not join the Christians, he scares Nwoye to run away by strangling him. Uchendu also questions Okonkwo’s senseless act of violence by asking, “Are you mad?” (pg. 152).

            Achebe includes irony that involves Okonkwo’s circumstances. The first case of irony is Obierika’s remark to Okonkwo “Kill one of your sons for me” and “Then kill yourself” (pg. 142). Obierika does not want Okonkwo to literally kill himself; however, Okonkwo ends up killing himself ten chapters later. It’s also ironic that Okonkwo killed Ikefuna, who was close to him like a son, and loses Nwoye to the Christians. Achebe may have been foreshadowing Okonkwo’s death and loss of his son. The next demonstration of irony involves Okonkwo’s character. His discipline and aggressiveness made him successful in the beginning of the novel, but these traits destroy his life at the end of the story. Okonkwo’s life is parallel to the decline of the Ibo culture.

Nwoye looks to Christianity because it seems to answer his thoughts about his native religion,especially when the twin newborns are left and Ikemefuna’s death. Also Nwoye feels himself as being an outcast to society because of his views on its laws. This is where the church comes in to rescue to help him cope with these disagreements. The church allows the twins to live, which lets the pregnant woman feel relieved who had to rid of her newborn babies four times. Also men without titles turn to Christianity to find out their worth in society. The osu can change people's perception of them as members of the outcasted society.

Okonkwo though, dismisses Christianity. If Mbanta did not rid of the missionaries, him killing Ikemenfuma would be a crime.Okonkwo hates the church because they do not view his accomplishments like he himself does which mean much more and have a larger value. Religion plays a large role in this book to many of the characters thoughts and actions. It affects much of the plot line.http://www.grin.com/en/e-book/109637/the-role-of-the-christian-missionaries-in-chinua-achebe-s-things-fall

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In chapter 17 you can see the village's fears start to come to light. That their way of life is beginning to change, especially with christian missionaries coming and setting up refuge near their village. Even after Okonkwo has been exiled etc. he still stays true to village beliefs and begins to choke his son when he heard that he was with some of the christian missionaries. Overall the village begins losing more and more people to Christianity and the elders don't want to do anything about it as they feel their gods will take care of the problem for them. You can see that they are so stubborn and afraid of change that they refuse to acknowledge the refugees and they than shun those that do communicate with them.

Post #4

     In the later chapters of Things Fall Apart, we are introduced to the real main conflict: the "white man's religion". Missionaries began settling in tribes and attempted to convert the clans-people to Christianity. One thing that stands out at this point in the novel is how easily some people converted religions; one day they are worshiping Gods of "wood and stone" (pg 146) and wearing masks like the ones shown in the image below, and the next they are bowing down and praying to a brand new God.

    This ease of conversion to Christianity evinces the instability of the religion of the tribes. The fact that men are willing to drop the respect of the clansmen and everything that comes with their religion to follow the missionaries goes to show that they may not have been truly faithful in their religion to begin with. Especially a man (Nyowe) who's father is successful and well-known among the tribe should not be willing to convert after hearing one preaching.
     Okonkwo was expecting anything but this upon his return to Umuofia after 7 years. He had it all planned out, 2 beautiful daughters ready to be married and 2 sons ready to be initiated into the ozo. When he returns to a broken clan with even men of great reputation and power in Umuofia converting to Christianity, it sends him into a depression. Okonkwo not only grieved because he was not given a memorable acceptance back to Umuofia, "He mourned for the clan."(pg 183). He thought things were bad back in his motherland, but things are truly falling apart now in Umuofia.

Blog Post 4

The title, Things Fall Apart, begins to become more fitting as the story begins to conclude. Okonkwo seems accident prone after killing Ezeudu's son. Nothing but negativity is associated with Okonkwo. It is very interesting how Achebe describes such a steep downfall for a figure that was once extremely respected by everyone. After, Okonkwo is exiled to Mbanta. Things begin to truly fall apart shortly after Okonkwo's absence. Mr. Kiaga, a white man, goes to the Umuofia and began to preach Christianity. The villagers questioned this religion as the newcomers continuously refer to villagers' religious figures as "False Gods." (pg.145) At this point, readers begin to see how deep rooted the villagers religious beliefs are as they offer a plot of land to the newcomers in the evil forest. This shows that despite the newcomer's claims of their Gods being false, the villagers still have faith that "doom awaited these men" (pg.150). The religious aspect of the villagers’ lives is quite intriguing. In my opinion, it is something to be admired. Despite many naysayers, some villages last undeterred from their native beliefs. In chapter eighteen, Okonkwo shows slithers of his early self as he has yet to change. Okonkwo's  lack of ability to adapt  continuous to hurt his situation. Oknokwo wants to drive the Christians out with violence and stated there "would be no peace" until the "abominal gang was chased out of the village." (pg.158) Once again, referring to a previous post, Okonkwo refers to femininity as weak as he calls the tribe womanly for not acting in violence toward this new religion.

 

Last post!!

Things fall apart rapidly in the last four chapters of Achebe’s novel. Slowly but surely, subtle hints throughout these chapters foreshadow the destruction of the Umuofian tribe. In chapter twenty, Obierika reveals the ugly truth to Okonkwu that the white man has “put a knife on the things that held [them] together” and that the tribe has, indeed, “fallen apart”. (pg.176) Later in chapter twenty-one, Okonkwo began to “mourn for the clan” when he finally saw for himself that it was “breaking up” (pg.183). The reader can feel the story’s abrupt shift from minor events, to extremely influential ones. This shocking transition makes the reader feel as if they were a part of the clan themselves, and have been hit with the element of surprise just like the people of Umuofia. The novel is cleverly written in third- person omniscient to show every aspect of the conquest, the side of the white men and the side of the native Umuofians.

Okonkwo was a man that only knew one way: the way of his tribe. When men disturbed his village and forced change onto his people, it was not unexpected to find his body "dangling "from a tree (pg.207). The reader is told of this in the last chapter of the book, and it is discussed only for about five chapters. When Okonkwo dies, the tribe's old traditions and ceremonies die with him. He was the last person to be unwavering in protection towards Umuofia; as he fell, so did the clan. 

Achebe concludes his novel with the thoughts of the Commissioner. He is planning on writing a book about "bringing civilization to different parts of Africa"(pg.208). The title of the white man's book would be "The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger", which is very ironic because in order to obtain their so-called "pacification", the white men had to create war and hatred between the Umuofians (pg.209). The end of a pure culture that lasted thousands of years marked the beginning of a newer, more controlled society.

Erin Howard 12/4 Post #4

   Relating to the cultural clash theme, the issue of rigidity or flexibility also contributes to the character’s destiny. Okonkwo has an inflexible nature, which makes his destiny seem self-destructive, even before the arrival of the European missionaries. The arrival of the new culture only expedites Okonkwo’s hapless fate.

   Other characters in contrast to Okonkwo in this regard are Obierika and Mr. Brown. Okonkwo’s good friend Obierika is an introspective and fair person. He doesn't advocate the use of force to rid the colonizers and opposition. Rather, he is more open-minded about wavering values and foreign culture. He goes so far as to comment, “Who knows what may happen tomorrow?” when the foreigners show up (60). Like Obierika, Mr. Brown, the first missionary, is an open and adaptable man, whereas Okonkwo is an adamant man of action. Mr. Brown wins over the novices by first respecting the traditions of the Igbo society and finally allowing some accommodation in the conversion process. 

   In addition to the flexibility, or, lack of, the Igbo tribe also relies on chi to determine their destiny. Okonkwo, at his best, feels that his chi relates to his ambition: “When a man says yes, his chi says yes also” (27). At his worst, he feels his chi is against him: “Here was a man whose chi said nay despite his own affirmation" (97).

   The Igbos' lack of unity and  leadership suggest the inevitable fate of becoming victim to colonization by an enforced and ambitious power. Their destiny is decided.

http://www.spiritual-knowledge.net/life/we-are-creators-of-destiny.php

We as humans determine our own fate based on our decisions and the nature we exhibit in everyday life.

Things Fall Apart Chapter 13- A Eulogy

Chapter 13 in Things Fall Apart is a eulogy for Ezeudu. Dictionary.com defines "eulogy" as "a speech or writing in praise of a person or thing, especially a set oration in honor of a deceased person." But this is a little different in Umuofia.

Most of the chapter speaks about how Ezeudu "was a great man (121)", so much so that "all the clan was at his funeral (121)."

But the eulogy for Ezeudu is executed more through actions than through words like a typical speech. This speech is done through retributions, dances, and music. Guns shout, drums bellow, and footsteps beating against the ground softly console the dead's spirit into the afterlife. After someone important dies, the rest of the clan almost goes crazy and let's all of their anger out. They "dashed around in frenzy, cutting down every tree or animal they saw, jumping over walls and dancing on the roof (121)." (We all know how dancing can relieve pressure and let us escape our thoughts.)

The book does pay tribute in real words as well, and it credits how well respected a man he was. He held one of the highest titles in the clan- the third. Because of this, he "was to be buried after dark with only a glowing brand to light the sacred ceremony (123)." This was considered highly respectable.

This aspect of the funeral also shows the culture of the clan and the land. Titles were highly valued along with elders. It was viewed the older you were, the wiser you were. This once again establishes Ezeudu's rank and importance.

In chapter 12 we again see Okonkwo's behavior show up again as he has another mishap. He feels as if he need to live up to his status of the strongest and fearless man ever. He can not be like his father. A bad father. A lazy waste. A failure. So his incident with Chielo happened. Now a little after that in the beginning of chapter 12 he shows his weakness side which is love and affection which Okonkwo's believes is every mans weakness. Well this notorious action that Okonkwo despise appears during this part of the story. Where enzima introduces himself and Okonkwo shows great interest for him. Chielo also helps contribute to this by making Okonkwo realize how much he needs to care for his own family. His wife. His children. They deserve it for putting up with his cruel behavior all their lives. This also may link to Okonkwo's rage and behavior. He kills his son!  That is outrageous. Just because he assumed that is the source of his weakness. Basing a killing of a theory is insane but Okonkwo is a man with his own rules and is not afraid of any consequences as long he doesn't end up like his fail of a father.

Egwugwu- Post 3 (Chapter 9)

One crucial aspect of Umuofia is the culture. It is what makes the people who they are and shapes their lives into how they live it. 

An insight to this would be when the egwugwu is discussed. These god-like figures or judges of character are acknowledged as mighty and larger than life, while in reality they are simply some Umuofia leaders dressed up in masks and tribal garb.

But the people of Umuofia choose to believe that their literal leaders can take place of higher beings who will judge them on their judgement days. They bring their personal matters to the egwugwu in order to be settled and make peace with. 

Peace with some is war with others. Other members of the tribe disagree. They believe that monumental matters managed by masks should not be the law of the land. Anyone can go out and get a costume but does that make them reliable to almost hold your life in their hands? 

While people today might find that absurd, it was an important part of the culture to Umuofia that was widely accepted. Although we would not go to Chuck E. Cheese and stand infront of the creepy mouse and ask for life advice and ask it to pick our career path, members of the tribes would go visit the egwugwu to discuss their most personal family matters.

The reader must understand the culture in order to understand the book. While it might be hard to wrap their heads around, this is what was worshipped and believed in mostly their whole people. 

(You decide)

(egwugwu: https://www.google.com/search?q=egwugwu&client=safari&hl=en-us&tbm=isch&prmd=ivsn&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjzz4fNpLLJAhWGSSYKHf2BC8EQ_AUIBSgB#imgrc=ItjqGBo8qth5JM%3A)

(Chuck E Cheese: https://www.google.com/search?q=chuck+e+cheese&client=safari&hl=en-us&prmd=mvin&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiIsZm8pLLJAhVIJiYKHRi_C8IQ_AUICSgD#imgrc=C5ernoWgbD9IlM%3A)

Blog Post 3

            Throughout chapters nine to thirteen, Achebe exposes Okonkwo’s compassion. Okonkwo’s true feelings add more to his traits rather than identifying him as a savage beast. Achebe also illustrates ceremonies, meetings, and beliefs in Umuofia. These events contain several themes, symbols, and motifs.

            As it turns out, Okonkwo is not a complete, cold-hearted brute. Okonkwo, like most human beings, has an affectionate side to his character even though he doesn’t publicly show it. After Okonkwo killed Ikemefuna, he could not sleep for three nights. Okonkwo covertly cares for his children and wife as well. Instead of beating Ekwefi for disturbing his slumber, he goes to help Ezinma from her illness. Another instance is when Okonkwo searches for Ekwefi and Ezinma in the middle of the night. He pretends that his search is a “manly interval,” but in reality, Okonkwo was “gravely worried” for his wife and child (pg. 112). Achebe includes this in the novel to show that Okonkwo is capable of feeling guilt and turmoil. This makes his character seem more realistic and relatable to the reader.

            In chapter ten, there is a town meeting over a dispute on Uzowulu’s wife. The counsels of the dispute are the egwugwu. The egwugwu are “spirits” that represent each of the nine villages. Although Achebe hints that they are not actually spirits of ancestors, the egwugwu still symbolize the Ibo’s traditions and beliefs in evil spirits. This explains why a medicine man uses witch crafting instead of real medicine. For example, Okagbue mutilated the body of a dead child as a method to get rid of the spirit that is tormenting Ekwefi. Sacrificing is another action and motif that expresses the villager’s belief in spirits. The villagers sacrifice kola nuts, yams, goats, and other foods for their ancestors and goddess. This is similar to the sacrifices that Odysseus makes to the gods in The Odyssey.

            The theme of sin and fear is shown after Okonkwo accidentally kills a man at Ezeudu’s funeral. Every sin or crime has a punishment decreed by the goddess. Similar to the time he breaks the week of peace, Okonkwo is also punished for killing a clan member. Although it is an accident, or a female offense, Okonkwo and his family are exiled for seven years, and the people of Umuofia have to demolish his property. This is due to the fear of going “against the great goddess” (pg. 125). They feared the wrath of the goddess just as the Phaeacians feared the wrath of Poseidon. Ekwefi also expresses fear in defying the goddess when she stalked the oracle to her temple.

            The purpose for Achebe to include these celebrations and gatherings is for him to respond to the European Colonization in Africa. He wants to build complexity and unique appearances in these villages to show that African tribal members are humans and not animals. The structure of their society might not be considered acceptable by most people, but they should have the right to follow these customs without interference.

post # 3

In chapter 13 when Okonkwo accidentally kills Ezeudu's son he and his family get exiled. The punishment for his crime is 7 years, also they burn his buildings and kill his live stock. This all relates back to Okonkwo's fear that he would turn out like his father. And after this chapter it could turn out that he will end up like him. Not only is his name now labeled with shame for his crime but he also has no possessions after he can return back to the village. So not only does he have shame associated with his name but he also has nothing just like his father.

In this chapter you can also see how strict the village is about their rules. Even if its an accident like Okonkwo they still apply the same punishment. Oberieka also is affected as he has to "throw away" his wife's twins and he didnt even know what crime they committed. Overall you can see how these guidelines and rules are so important for their village leaders. This link helps to explain some of their cultures and ways of life in more depth: http://www.thehistoryofafrica.com/various_culture_in_africa.html

Blog Post #3

          Achebe once again displays character traits of Okonkwo that attribute to the negative things happening in his life. Okonkwo's will to not look weak continuously ruins his position in life. After taking part of Ikemefuna's death, Okonkwo "drank palm wine from morning till night"(pg.63). Soon after, Okonkwo spoke with his friend, Obierika. Within their conversation, Achebe displayed an interesting fact about the tribe and villagers. While speaking with Obierika, they discuss traditions of neighboring tribes. In doing so, they reveal specs of their own traditions and beliefs. For instance, Machi finds the traditions absurd and says " You might as well say that the woman lies on top of the man when they are making the children." (pg. 74). This, alone, says a great deal about this tribe and its beliefs. From prior knowledge, one can assume that the men in these tribes are viewed as dominant and superior to women. By having a woman lay on top of a man during a sexual act, this puts the woman in a position of power. Achebe also shows the deep rooted beliefs in the tribe. As soon as the priestess, Chielo,calls for Ezinma to meet the oracle in the hills, Okonkwo obeys and does so. This meant carrying Ezinma to a cave at night and leaving her there. this deep faith of the Gods/ higher power is intriguing. To anyone else, an act so bizarre would be out of question but not for Okonkwo and his family. This picture relates to Things Fall Apart because it illustrates people worshipping Gods such as Okonkwo and his Klan.

Chapter 11-16 (Post #3)

In these chapters, Achebe really delves into the cultural aspect of African tribes in the late 1800's. It seems as if the people of the tribe are taking the words of the "prophets" and "Gods" too seriously. Ikemefuna was sacrificed just because a prophecy said so, Ezinma was taken far from her home to a cave in the middle of the night to see a God, and daughters are being sold to men they don't want to marry.

The chaos all of this is causing reminds me of the Salem witch trials, which is shown in the image above. Just like anybody and anything will be sacrificed if a prophet says so in Things Fall Apart, anybody who was accused of being a witch amidst the chaos in Salem was thrown in jail and executed. I predict this is foreshadowing a conflict where people want to leave the religion/tribe later in the novel.
As for Okonkwo's behavior, little has changed. He is still so caught up in his reputation and masculinity that he puts everyone around him in danger. When his gun explodes and he accidentally kills a young boy of 16 and his family is sent to his motherland, he becomes very depressed. There is more foreshadowing going on here, from the context of the novel, it seems that Okonkwo is going through some serious internal conflicts, and is beginning to struggle to move on. He had to start a new far and his family is beginning to fall apart. He has this revelation when Uchendu comes to his house and insults him, saying things like "you are a child" (pages 134-135) and "I have no more to say to you." (page 135).

Erin Howard 11/27 Blog Post #3

    Achebe uses strong literary devices throughout Things Fall Apart to justify the characteristics of his main characters. Powerful and strong-minded Okonkwo, for example, requires numerous devices to condone the actions he puts forward.

    An apparent theme present in the novel, which multiple students have blogged about already, is that of masculinity against femininity. What makes a man masculine and how can he avoid becoming ‘feminine’?

    As his fame and popularity increased, Okonkwo pursued his ideal of masculinity. Okonkwo constantly distanced himself from anything even remotely feminine. He reminded himself of his masculinity and strove to make sure all his clansmen knew of it as well. “Okonkwo was popularly called ‘The Roaring Flame.’ As he looked into the log fire he recalled the name. He was a flaming fire” (153). The metaphor of fire is perfect to describe Okonkwo’s character, and yields a deep analysis of human feelings and personality. Like a fire, Okonkwo is violent, and burns whatever he touches. In many cases, he “burns” his own family. Throughout the novel, Okonkwo nags on his wives and son, beats his family, and kills three innocent people – not to mention himself, as well. When the Europeans finally succeed in taking control of the government, then Okonkwo – like a fire without any fuel – dies, and this is how an example of Achebe’s fire metaphor is seen throughout the novel.

    This fire metaphor enables readers to identify with Okonkwo in a relatable way as many others are identified with fiery antics. 

http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/deal-hot-tempered-person-34210.html

      Positioning yourself as an ally of one with a short temper can really be useful!!

Blog Post #3 Macy Levicoff

What should a man do when his life beings to crumble? There are ultimately two paths he can go down. This man can fight through tough times and survive, or become so overwhelmed that he commits suicide.

Okonkwo's life is sprinting down the mountain it was once on. He took pride in the empire he built for himself, but the higher the mountain, the harder the fall. His already unstable life began its tumble downward when Ikemefuna was killed. Something had "given way"(pg.62) inside Okonkwo; he didn't sleep or "taste any food for two days"(pg.63). When he starts to feel like his old self again, life thrusts itself faster down the mountain. Ezinma, one of his daughters, becomes gravely ill. In chapters nine to eleven the main focus is Ezinma and her mother, Ekwefi. Okonkwo shows worry towards Ezinma's sickness. When she is taken by the priestess to the caves in the mountains, her mother and Okonkwo follow behind to make sure she is not in danger. Does this reveal that Okonkwo is trying to salvage parts of his life? By going after his daughter to make sure she is safe, he shows emotion and care, which are deadly poisons to Okonkwo. The wearing away of his outer shell gives a sense of vulnerability.

In chapter twelve the news about Ezinma is quickly forgotten when Okonkwo's friend celebrates his daughter's uri. At the end of the party, "guns fired the last salute" and Okonkwo's gun explodes. This causes a piece of iron to "pierce" a sixteen-year-old boy in the heart. Since this murder was "female", or"inadvertent" it is known that Okonkwo and his family must flee the land for seven years. After they sneak away, the tribe destroys his home, his animals, and his pride.(pg.124)

This fast descend down Okonkwo's man-made mountain is sure to bring out his true inner strength. Will he prove to be internally strong as well as physically, or will he give up when things fall apart?

  (Me=Okonkwo)

"Bear no hand in his death."

Chapters 12-18 of Things Fall Apart are rife with foreshadowing and internal conflicts. At first, Achebe fools the reader into a feeling of safety by describing many celebrations. On the surface, life in Umuofia seemed content until the first foreshadowing and internal conflict moment was revealed in the novel. "A cold shiver went down Okonkwo's back..."That boy calls you father," [Ezeudu] had said. " Bear no hand in his death." (121). The "cold shiver" that ran down Okonkwo's back and Ezeudu's ominous unheeded words foreshadowed the upcoming events that would upend the life that Okonkwo had built.

Ironically, the beginning of major changes, and arguably the climax of the story so far, can be traced back to Ezuedu's ominous words to "Bear no hand in his death" (121), and Okonkwo's decision to disregard this advice to maintain his reputation. When Okonkwo killed Ikemefuna, he made a conscious decision to commit a violent act against his "son". When Okonkwo killed Ezuedu's son, a boy roughly the same age as Ikemefuna, he made an inadvertent mistake. His first act of violence, a conscious one, resulted in praise. His second act of violence, a mistake, resulted in exile. This double standard in tradition that existed throughout the novel for women and men deemed unworthy, finally doomed Okonkwo too.

Another moment of foreshadowing in the story occurred when Obierika visited Okonkwo in Mbanta. "...I am greatly afraid. We have heard stories about white men who made the powerful guns...and took slaves away across the seas..." (141). In this part of the novel, the conflicts are mostly internal but this foreshadowing suggests that they may turn violent, and may even lead to war.

The escalating conflict between the missionaries and the tribesmen also reinforces the novel's central focus on fear. Historically, fear between two different groups of people has lead to unending bloodshed and irreparable damage. It can be predicted that Umuofia teeters on the edge of the same physical tragedies.

Blog Post 2

            As the story progresses, more customs and tradition followed by villagers in Umuofia are revealed. The society of the Ibo relies heavily on these irrational ideas that are proclaimed by the Oracle of Agbala. Another absurd practice is the inequality of women. The strong belief in superstition and the ill treatment of woman develops into a main motif in the novel.

            The people of Umuofia apply religion to their government and counseling. Nobody questions the leadership of Oracle. As Ikemefuna was sent to be killed, Okonkwo did not “question the authority and decision of the Oracle” (pg. 66). Sacrificing for any causes in most civilized nations is deemed immoral and illegal. Other strange traditions include sacred weeks, mandatory festivals, and questioning, “Is that me?” in fear of a ghost (pg. 41).

            Women are treated as objects in the story. In the beginning of the novel, there is an inequality between them and men, such as men having multiple wives. Later in the book, it is revealed that women are regarded as different. They are sold for marriage at the age of sixteen, which shames them as objects or prostitutes. The word woman is used to insult other men. Examples include the time Okonkwo insults himself by calling himself a “shivering old woman” or calls his own son a woman to degreed his masculinity (pg. 65). Masculinity and violence is stressed as important by Okonkwo while women are degraded. Violence against woman is also considered casual. Okonkwo almost kills his second wife without receiving any punishment or discipline.  This is not normal in most modern society.

            These superstitions and inequality are strong factors for the village’s drawbacks. The people of Umuofia can’t advance in society if these bizarre traditions continue.

Fear, Peer Pressure, and Change

In chapters 7-11 of Things Fall Apart, the full extent of Okonkwo’s chauvinism is expressed. However, this part of the novel also begins to depict Okonkwo’s true feelings about his family. Although he shuns love and emotions as signs of weakness for effeminate men, Okonkwo struggled to cope with the death of Ikemefuna. However, his need to be seen as strong in the eyes of the village members drives him to ignore his paternal instincts and kill his surrogate son. Again, much like in the first six chapters, Okonkwo is pushed by the fear of becoming his father.

As Nwoye matures, Okonkwo also expresses fears about his son becoming weak. “I have done my best to make Nwoye grow into a man, but there is too much of his mother in him” (66). His father’s constant disapproval and lack of affection leads Nwoye to make stronger efforts to appease Okonkwo. He hides his love for his mother and sisters and pretends to be disdained with women and children. In a way, Nwoye’s feigning about chauvinism is similar to Okonkwo’s feigning about strength. They are both efforts to appease others and themselves by trying to fit into what they believe society wants from them.

These few chapters also begin to show a divide between traditional values and more moderate values in Umuofia. Although Okonkwo does not always strictly adhere to traditional customs or values, he does possesses a traditional mindset. He holds the priestess in high esteem, sees women as inferior to men, and follows the Oracle no matter the task at hand. Many of his fellow friends and villagers have a more relaxed view of society which often shocks and disgusts Okonkwo. Obierika’s report of Ndule and Ozoemena’s relationship elicited this response from Okonkwo, “I thought he was a strong man in his youth” (68). Okonkwo resists change in his narrow view of his society.

Okonkwo's resistance to change mirrors the resistance to change during the 1960's.

Okonkwos biggest fear is being weak. Ikemefuna is introduced in this part of the story. He is the reason Okonkwos fear becomes true. Because ikemefuna is so alike Okonkwo he develops a liking for him but doesn't show affection because he believes it weakens him. Okonkwos biggest problem is that he has a cold heart and very cold on the outside. He puts his family in jeopardy so his reputation doesn't suffer because he is so obsessed with himself. Nwoye also is introduced in the part of the book. He represent Okonkwo wants him to be while showering flashes of what his father would like him to be. For example he doesn't find much interest by helping on the farm but also when ikemefuna  is around he emerges the person that his father wants him to be. The theme of this part of he story is African Tribes may seem very alien to our society but it is the lifestyle they lived for many years and no one dared to change it.

Chapters 6-10 Post (Post #2)

     One of the main conflicts in these chapters is the killing of Ikemefuna. Okonkwo wishes that his son Nwoye would be more manly; the idea of his son growing up to not be a successful and revered man eats him alive. When Ikemefuna comes along and sparks a fire in Nwoye, Okonkwo takes a secret liking to him because he is guiding Nwoye to manhood. About 3 years after he arrives, Ikemefuna is ordered to be killed. Okonkwo understands that 'it takes a village to raise a child', and that Ikemefuna is becoming a very important member of his son's village, yet he lets his fear of being perceived as weak get in his way of common judgement. Will Okonkwo ever lose his ego and bring some peace to his family?

     This again brings us to the cultural aspect of African tribe-life. For them, there was no college or social media or life outside of the village. All they had was their job and reputation, so many men probably acted like Okonkwo, letting their pride get in the way of raising their children. Having an unsuccessful son is just as bad as being unsuccessful themselves. Another issue raised in this story is masculinity. Is Nwoye any less of a man because he finds comfort in his mother's hut and stories?Okonkwo wishes he would learn from him and begin to take responsibility around the farm and act like a man. Although the actions of Nwoye would be acceptable in the modern world, they are viewed as futile in context of Things Fall Apart. 

Things Fall Apart Post #2

Okonkwo is a very interesting character. Fear is constantly flowing through his veins as in his dna. His father was a weak man often being called “agbala” or woman. Okonkwo was born with weakness in him, this has made him stronger than his father. “...his whole life was dominated by fear, the fear of failure and of weakness.”(pg 13) this shows that the fear was deeper than just the embarrassment. Okonkwo wanted to never be at the same level or lower than his father. It was an internal fear and still haunts him no matter how tough everyone perceives him.

Another interesting part of this novel is the importance of beliefs and superstitions. Unoka always makes sacrifices to “Ani, the owner of all land.”(pg 17) before starting his crops. Also makes a sacrifice to the shrine of Ifejioku, and the god of yams. He has to make sure he pleases them to ensure a good harvest. Another belief was the oracle,“...people came from far and near to consult it.”(pg 16). People would come for reconciliation for misfortune or to discover their future. I guess this is somewhat relatable to how we go to physics or our belief in our own god. Also, the time when Okonkwo took the eight hundred seed-yams from Nwakibie, they believed that “the world had gone mad.”(pg 23). Everything was believed to be miss timed, too early or too late, and  the sun had beamed hotter than ever while the first rain came late.

post #2

In this part of the story so far Okonkwo is beginning to see his son turn more masculine. This could not make Okonkwo happier as it reconnects to his fear that he or his children would turn out like his father. Him seeing his son start on the right path as most likely helped to lighten that fear of off Okonkwo's shoulders. Another one of Okonkwo's fears is looking weak. Later in the same chapter he is informed by other clan leaders that Ikemefuna will be sacrificed, that is Okonkwo's adopted son and part of the reason his actual son is acting the way he is. But in order to avoid looking weak and his fear coming true he cuts down the boy killing him.

 Later after he killed the boy he feels depressed and weak. His daughter is left to take care of him while he is in this state, and he keeps wishing that she where a boy because she has the right attitude. This goes back to where the men in the village belittle women and give them no power at all even if they are right for the part. So far Okonkwo's fears and the fact that women are given no oppurtunites keeps circling around throughout the book.

Post 2- Umuofia as a Character

In Things Fall Apart, the setting is crucial to the plot of the story. It is important to understand that Umuofia is nothing like Sicklerville or Philly; Umuofia is a group of multiple tribal villages (there are no McDonalds or Starbucks anywhere in sight). 

Umuofia is almost like a character in itself. The personification of the "town" almost brings it to life so the reader can understand its traits and quirks, such as how it "was feared by all its neighbors (pg 11)" or how it "was powerful in war and in magic (pg 11)." Although Umuofia is described as being able to strike fear into the hearts of any other surrounding town, it is also described as a strictly fair place that "never went to war unless it's case was clear (pg 12)," or they were 100% sure about that their motives to fight were pure.

Different features make up Umuofia as well- such as the children, the elders, the rich. and the poor. The elders advice is usually the law of the land, and the wealthy are looked upon like royalty. 

In the movie Monster House, a haunted house literally comes to life and wreaks havoc. This picture is almost how I imagine Umuofia- it is a person in itself. It is feared and powerful, but still cherished and loved by all who know it. 

Picture- https://www.google.com/search?q=monster+house&client=safari&hl=en-us&tbm=isch&prmd=visn&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjBuc-kgaDJAhUGHT4KHd_kDdsQ_AUIBigC#hl=en-us&tbm=isch&q=monster+house&imgrc=HjWi9d35NRhVIM%3A

Things Fall Apart Post #2

Things Fall Apart continues to further Okonkwo's character even more. As the story goes on, everything for Oknonkwo seems to go downhill. Okonkwo' character development is beginning to pick up even more. Author, Achebe, exploits the flaws in Okonkwo's character. For instance, Okonkwo beat one of his wives badly during a sacred week. " In his anger he had forgotten that it was the week of peace." (pg.29) Okonkwo is then summoned before a priestess. "You have committed a great evil."(pg.30) The natives of his tribe believe in chi. The significance of Chi in this story is that fact that it allows personal flaws to be more forgivable because such blame is on the Chi itself. By Okonkwo's actions, Achebe indicates a large gender inequality in this tribe. Okonkwo calls lesser men "women" as a derogatory term. This shows that woman represent failure or perhaps a certain weakness also. The irony of this gender role is the fact that Okonkwo respects the Goddesses and the priestesses which happen to be women. Another character that begins to develop more is Ikemefuna. Early on, not much was known about him. Ikemefuna begins to form a close relationship with Okoknwo's family especially Nwoye. This indicates a positivity in Ikemefuna. The fact that Ikemefuna was taken away from his family and is still able to "feel like a member of Okonkwo's family" (pg.34) displays a character trait not many people have. Achebe tells of Okonkwo taking a liking into Ikemefuna, but being the man he is, Okonkwo could never show it.

Blog post #2

The theme of fear in Things Fall Apart becomes prominent through subtle actions as well as main events. Each scene that involves Okonkwos' home life seems to have an omniscient feel, almost as if

the reader is supposed to be on edge like his family is. Okonkwo's "suppressed anger" is present in nearly every main scene of the book; he even needed to "[find] an outlet" as meaningless as a dead banana tree to justify his anger. (Pg.38) While at a kindred meeting, a man named Osugo contradicted him. Almost like a child, Okonkwo called him a girl because he didn't posses any tittles. His overreaction to situations and unpredictable nature leads to the overall fearful tone of the story, and keeps the reader on his/ her toes. 

Less significant examples of fear are shown discretely throughout the story. The character of Ikemefuna is out of his element since he was taken away from his family and his native land. He was "very much afraid" of the new life he was beginning, so he tried to run away, but ended up "weep[ing] bitterly". Being depressed, he refused to eat-- even when he is forced by the always-angry Okonkwo (of course, that made him even more afraid). Ikemefuna's reluctance towards his new, forced life enhances the theme of fear.(pg. 27) Another example is when one of Okonkwo's daughters, Ekwefi, was plucking hens, and heard a voice call her name. Instead of saying "yes?" or "what is it?" she answers "Is that me?" in fear that it might be an "evil spirit calling" (pg.41) This little girl is already so full of fear that even an everyday conversation is riddled with precautions.   

Hopefully, as the story progresses, Okonkwo will learn to be accepting of his true self and the people around him--fear and all. 

http://www.metrolyrics.com/if-i-only-had-a-nerve-lyrics-wizard-of-oz.html

The cowardly lion from The Wizard Of Oz resembles Okonkwo because on the outside he looks intimidating, and has a reputation as the king of the forest, but on the inside he is afraid of many things.

Jason Butler 11/20

Okonkwo's actions can be very hard to understand. He is a man whose fear of weakness dominates his life. Okonkwo's wives and children experience this first-hand. Okonkwo's strange actions define him as a person.

Okonkwo is quick to call Osugoa woman for contradicting him. When everyone takes sides with Osugo, he apologizes to the man with no titles. Okonkwo is so concerned about looking weak to the other men present that he tries to insult a man in the worst manner. Many people do not understand Okonkwo's "brusqueness in dealing with less successful men." (Pg 26). 

Another example of Okonkwo's fear of weakness is when he breaks the peace during the Week of Peace. After his youngest wife lies and misses a meal, he beats "her very heavily" (Pg 29) forgetting it is the Week of Peace. Okonkwo cannot appear to be weak by letting Ojiugo, his youngest wife, do these things without being reprimanded. 

Arguably Okonkwo's greatest display of his fear of weakness came when he was informed that the tribe had decided to kill Ikemefuna. The tribe suggested that Okonkwo stay home because everyone knew that he had became emotionally attached to Ikemefuna. Okonkwo believed that showing emotions is a sign of weakness so he decides to walk with the tribe to kill his “son”. After a member of the tribe struck Ikemefuna with his machete and Ikemefuna calls for Okonkwo, “Okonkwo drew his machete and cut him down. He was afraid of being thought weak.” (Pg 61). Okonkwo’s fear of being weak causes his eldest son Nwoye, his eldest son, to alienate himself from the Ibo tribe.  

Erin Howard 11/20 Post #2

     The clash of cultures present throughout Things Fall Apart is undoubtedly one of the most universal themes seen in literature. Similar to clashes between two groups of people today, the European missionaries and the native Umuofians struggle to coexist peacefully. Their lack of synchronization leads to future controversy.

    The Europeans bring Christianity with them as they arrive in Umuofia, though, they never force this religion upon the Igbo society; joining the new church is optional to the tribe. Over time, the missionaries become intrusive to the native Umuofian beliefs and culture which progressively results in the domination of the society. Achebe adequately expresses the effects the missionaries have on the African culture through the imagery of the tribal drums. The trademark drums are heard numerous times throughout the novel - until the Europeans arrive - after which they are heard no more. These drums symbolize tribal unity. "Their sound was no longer a separate thing from the living village....it throbbed in the air...and filled the village with excitement." (44) The sound of the drums expresses the proper functioning of Umuofian society and seem to have the village people under a spell. "Old men nodded to the beat of the drums and remembered...it's intoxicating rhythm." (47) However, the constant imagery repetition of the drums before the European missionaries arrive stands in stark contrast to the lack of drums throughout the latter half of the novel. This contrast in sound foreshadows a downfall in the Igbo tribe as it implies unfavorable circumstances in the future.

Clash of Clans is a perfect representation of the clashes the Igbo tribe and missionaries experience

Blog Post 1

            The first major conflict in chapters one to four involves Okonkwo’s “fear of failure and of weakness” (pg. 13). The internal conflict emerges from Okonkwo’s father, Unoka, who dies with the label of an agbala. As a result, Okonkwo resolves to “hate everything that his father Unoka [has] loved” (pg. 13). This conflict reveals the personalities of two main characters, a major theme, and a symbol in the story.

            From Okonkwo’s behavior, he can be characterized as a strict and hardworking individual. Okonkwo acts harsh towards his son and uses disciplines such as “constant nagging and beating” (pg. 14) as a method to correct his son’s laziness. Okonkwo does not want his son to end up like Unoka, a pathetic failure. Unoka can be easily described as a lazy coward. He cannot pay off his debt or “bear the sight of blood” (pg. 6). He’s everything that Okonkwo is ashamed of and feared of becoming. In other words, Unoka can be seen as Okonkwo’s foil.

            The theme of reputation and worthiness can be found from this conflict. According to the Ibo, “a man [is] judged according to his worth” (pg. 8). The value of a person comes from several factors such as his titles, properties, and wives. Okonkwo earned two prestigious titles and is married to three wives. Unoka can barely feed his one wife and children and receives no titles throughout his life. Okonkwo’s fear creates a contrast between him and his father and demonstrates society’s view of two different characters.

            Yams also symbolize the wealth and value of an individual. Since yam is the main food source, a farmer with more yams shows that he’s hard working and prosperous. An example could be seen from Okonkwo and Unoka. Okonkwo had “two barns full of yams” (pg. 8) while Unoka didn’t own a barn of yams and has a miserable harvest. Okonkwo is regarded as successful while Unoka is seen as a disappointment.

First blog post sean sigall

 In the novel Things Fall Apart written by China Achebe many conflicts are presented along with many great tales being told throughout the first few chapters. This novel opens up with great imagery of an ultimate showdown between the two highest regarded fighters in the region. Amalinze the Cat is talked of very highly and so is Okonkwo. In the end Okonkwo ended up throwing down the mighty Cat down as they call it. Next the story transition on to what Okonkwo's fuel was to win these throw downs. The novel begins discussing Okonkwo's father, Unoka. A worthless man who is a lazy father that cannot support his family and has nothing to show for like a barn of yams. His son Okonkwo absolutely despises him very greatly. Everything he has ever loved or liked his son will not like and hate. Unoka was also known to be in great debt but also a great flute player. Okonkwo is then discussed more and more about how he brought himself up from scratch to where is now claiming many titles just out of thought that he does not want to be a thing like his father ever was. I personally do not like Okonkwo's attitude. He is just so angry all the time and is way too strict. He already has established himself as a very strong competitor in battle. There is no reason to be like when he is at home. On the other hand i do respect his perseverance throughout his early years of being a farmer and planting yams after that first harvest which was a total disaster. At this point in the book i have mixed emotions of what Okonkwo is going to become and how he will develop through the rest of the story.

Get A Grip, Okonkwo!- Deanna

The first six chapters of Things Fall Apart did not introduce the conflict of the story. However, the chapters did focus on characterization and setting development.

From these first few pages, the readers are able to gauge the different aspects of the traditional culture in Umuofia. This society is characterized by rigid class structures and superstition. As a patriarchal society, men yield immense power over the women in their lives. Okonkwo often beats and berates his three wives. Although Okonkwo may be more brutish than other males in his community, their lack of concern for Ojiugo’s health after a severe beating reveals their feelings of justification and superiority. “Your wife was at fault…” (30) was a statement made after the abuse.

Paradoxically, this society that regards women more as objects than as human beings reveres its religious and mythical deities that happen to be female. In a way, this highlights a developing theme in the story: the need to control things that cause fear. The men in the community feel the need to assert their dominance over women because they are afraid of giving them freedom. Also, Okonkwo’s characterization reenforces this theme.

As the child of a poor and disgraced man, Okonkwo feels obligated to prove his worth. His constant fears about becoming his father stem from the trauma he faced as a young boy and his insecurities about his own power. He believes that by controlling as much of his life as possible, he will be able to earn the honor that his father never had. Unfortunately, his efforts will most likely be in vain. Okonkwo has already earned the respect of his village. He thinks he needs to maintain that respect, but in reality, he feels inadequate because of his low self-esteem. He needs to gain self respect.

Okonkwo has a massive french fry on his shoulder. A chip isn't enough to decribe his issues...

(I couldn't find a picture with a yam.)

Jason Butler 11/13

Chinua Achebe uses a foil character to further develop the main character Okonkwo. Unoka, Okonkwo's father, is nothing like Okonkwo and Achebe uses this contrast to evince the character traits of Okonkwo. Achebe introduces this contrast by saying, "[Okonkwo] had no patience with unsuccessful men. He had no patience with his father." (Pg 4). By using parallel structure Achebe reveals that Okonkwo and Unoka are nothing alike.

Achebe develops the character of Unoka by directly describing him and telling a story. Unoka is "lazy and improvident" (Pg 4).  By establishing what Unoka is, Achebe shows what Okonkwo is not. After a brief story about Okonkwo, this contrast provides a further understanding of him. " Unlike his father, "Okonkwo was clearly cut out for great things." (Pg 8).

Achebe then develops Okonkwo more indepthly by recollecting a story of Okonkwo's younger years. Unoka's character development is important because it shows that Okonkwo had to earn everything he has by himself. "He did not inherit a barn from his father." (Pg 16). This shows how independent Okonkwo is and how much of a hard worker he is.

Achebe uses the story of "the worst living year in memory" (Pg 23) to show Okonkwo's mental toughness. While this year would've destroyed most people's hopes, Okonkwo stayed confident was able to survive. "Since [he] survived that year...[he] shall survive anything." (Pg 24).

In many ways Achebe successfully develops the character of Okonkwo. After just three chapters, Okonkwo is established as a strong hardworking man. Despite his father's poor reputation, "a man was judged according to his worth and no according to the worth of his father." (Pg 8).  

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/things/canalysis.html#Okonkwo

Things Fall Apart Post #1

    

Opening Things Fall Apart, the reader is immediately “thrown” into a complication between Okonkwo and Amalinze that arose around 20 years ago. The reader can quickly identify the role culture plays in everyday life. “The drums beat and the flutes sang…”(page 3), music is heavily influenced throughout African culture. Also after the harvest, everyone gets together to play music and indulge in the wonders of the harvest.

Okonkwo’s father is introduced in the first chapter of the novel;neither are like one another. Okonkwo is such a rapid irrational thinker while his father, Unoka, was simple minded. His father had no intention of thinking of tomorrow and he was “a debtor”(page 4). Although Unoka did not consider the future and was lazy he resembled a happier outlook. The time of year he cherished most was the time of music and feasting after the harvest.

Okonkwo’s settled his confrontations with his hands while his father couldn't stand the thought of ear nor the sight of blood. This really speaks to their characters and explains why Okonkwo’s has no patience for his father. His father was a known debtor and was ashamed of him. He knew he would grow up to be better than him and anyone who he had ever known. Okonkwo’s now was the best wrestler in the nine villages and was a wealthy farmer. Usually age was held accountable for the respect owed to a person in the tribes but Okonkwo and his achievements contradicted every aspect of that. He was known of one of the greatest of the time.