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.
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| Clash of Clans is a perfect representation of the clashes the Igbo tribe and missionaries experience |
I really like the media source you used for this post. Its funny because that game really does represent what is going on as the new culture seeps over Umuofia and the nation. I also like how you explained how the drums are used as a symbol versus it just being a part of their culture.
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