Things Fall Apart

Definition

Things Fall Apart is a novel by Chinua Achebe that tells the story of Okonkwo, a proud and ambitious Igbo leader, and how colonialism disrupts his traditional society. The title reflects the disintegration of Igbo culture and identity in the face of European colonization, highlighting the clash between indigenous traditions and new cultural forces.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Things Fall Apart was published in 1958 and is considered one of the first African novels written in English that gained international acclaim.
2. The novel explores themes of masculinity, tradition, and change, as Okonkwo's rigid adherence to cultural norms ultimately leads to his downfall.
3. Achebe uses proverbs, folktales, and traditional storytelling techniques throughout the narrative to enrich the cultural context of the Igbo society.
4. The arrival of British missionaries and colonial government introduces new religious beliefs and political systems that challenge the existing social order.
5. The book’s structure reflects the disintegration of Igbo society, paralleling Okonkwo’s personal tragedy with the broader societal collapse.

Review Questions

• How does Achebe illustrate the impact of colonialism on Igbo society through the character of Okonkwo?
  • Achebe illustrates the impact of colonialism on Igbo society by depicting Okonkwo as a tragic hero whose life is deeply intertwined with traditional values. As colonial forces arrive, Okonkwo's inability to adapt to changing circumstances leads to his personal decline. His struggles reflect the broader disintegration of Igbo culture, showing how colonialism disrupts established social structures and identities.
• Analyze how Achebe uses literary devices such as proverbs and folktales to convey cultural themes in Things Fall Apart.
  • Achebe employs literary devices like proverbs and folktales to enrich the narrative and emphasize cultural themes within Igbo society. These elements serve not only as a means of storytelling but also reflect the values, beliefs, and wisdom of the community. By incorporating these traditional forms into the text, Achebe allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of Igbo culture and its complexities amidst colonial disruption.
• Evaluate the significance of the title 'Things Fall Apart' in relation to both Okonkwo's personal journey and the broader historical context of colonization.
  • The title 'Things Fall Apart' signifies both Okonkwo's tragic personal journey and the wider historical context of colonization that leads to societal breakdown. Okonkwo's rigid adherence to traditional values results in his alienation and ultimate demise as he fails to reconcile with change. Simultaneously, the title reflects how colonial forces dismantle the fabric of Igbo society, showcasing a profound loss of identity and culture that resonates throughout the novel.

Related terms

Colonialism:

The practice of acquiring control over another country or territory, often through force, leading to significant political, economic, and cultural changes.

Igbo Culture: The customs, traditions, and social practices of the Igbo people, an ethnic group in Nigeria, which are vividly portrayed in Achebe's novel.

Cultural Clash: The conflict that arises when two distinct cultures meet and struggle for dominance or understanding, often resulting in significant social upheaval.