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
I like how you pointed out that the story has gone full circle. In the beginning, Okonkwo is so afraid of being viewed as weak, but ends up looking weaker than ever. This might cause problems with his life later on.
ReplyDeleteOkonkwo's mistake really cost him a lot. The tribe's strict rules and Okonkwo's fear of weakness cause him to lost almost everything. I wonder how Okonkwo will bounce back.
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