Themes: Tradition Versus Modernity
For the most part, Chinua Achebe portrays the Igbo way of life as consistent with upholding tradition, whereas he portrays the British way of life as representing modernity. Achebe does not maintain, however, that this is a clear-cut division, and the novel includes changes that occur within Igbo society regardless of any foreign intervention. Achebe considers the advantages and disadvantages of tradition and modernity while examining two opposing approaches to British colonization.
Two positive elements of the Igbo tradition are respect for nature and an emphasis on collectivity, customs that are closely related to one another. Both of these are important aspects of an agricultural society, and they are developed through numerous rituals in which Umuofia’s people participate several times a year.
Following tradition too closely without analyzing its meaning, however, is shown to result in negative consequences. For example, Okonkwo is forced to overcome his personal and fatherly affection for Ikemefuna and kill him in accordance with the village elders’ decision. In another instance, Obierika surrenders his twin babies, even though he knows that they will die, because of the need to conform to the Earth Goddess’s requirements.
Achebe shows that the desire for improvement is as likely to generate a bad outcome as heedlessly following tradition. This desire motivates some characters to embrace elements of British culture, including Christianity, without anticipating that such accommodations could lead to loss of political autonomy.
Achebe presents this conflict of worldviews through the characters of Okonkwo and his son, Nwoye. The younger man feels constrained by Igbo norms and seeks both practical advancement and spiritual knowledge. His father, however, feels that Nwoye disrespects senior authority and Okonkwo’s own paternal position—both factors that serve as symbolic of the underlying threats to Igbo culture.
Achebe shows variations in the British colonists’ willingness to change with the times. This contrast is most obvious in the two pastors involved in efforts to bring Christianity to the area. Mr. Brown, who learns about local customs from Akunna, desires to coexist with the Igbo people and understand their culture. In contrast, Reverend Smith, who replaces Mr. Brown, condemns African ways as backward and believes that it is necessary to exert pressure to modernize them. Reverend Smith’s aggressive approach and lack of respect for existing traditions results in the unmasking of an egwugwu, which in turn leads to the burning of the white man’s church and the arrest of multiple community leaders—a chain of events that leads to Okonkwo’s suicide. Achebe makes it clear that unchecked modernization can lead to calamity.
Expert Q&A
What is the importance of the Oracle of the Hills and the Caves in Things Fall Apart?
The Oracle of the Hills and the Caves in "Things Fall Apart" holds a significant role in Umuofia as a prophet and healer. The Oracle, embodied by the character Chielo, is the intermediary between the people and the gods, guiding the tribe and determining the fate of villagers. Chielo's prophecies are central to Umuofian life, foreseeing the threat of colonialism before others in the village. Even in a patriarchal society, the Oracle's authority is absolute and must be obeyed.
In Things Fall Apart, what purpose do the stories of Vulture and Sky, Mosquito and Ear, The Snake-lizard and his Mother, and Tortoise and the Birds serve?
How does the idea of progress shape Things Fall Apart and how does society in Umuofia change over three generations?
The idea of progress in Things Fall Apart challenges the notion of constant improvement, as Umuofia's society changes dramatically over three generations due to colonial influence. Initially, Okonkwo embodies traditional values, contrasting with his father's failures. However, his son Nwoye's conversion to Christianity marks a cultural shift he cannot accept. Okonkwo's eventual suicide symbolizes his rejection of these changes, highlighting the destructive impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures rather than positive progress.
In Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, what does the proverb "When mother cow is chewing grass its young ones watch its mouth" signify?
The proverb "When mother cow is chewing grass its young ones watch its mouth" signifies that children learn by observing their parents' actions rather than by listening to their words. In Things Fall Apart, this reflects the idea that parents must set a good example for their children, as children are more influenced by what they see than what they are told.
What are the crimes and punishments in Things Fall Apart, and their relation to modern Igbo justice system?
Crimes in Igbo society are judged by village elders with guidance from the gods, often resulting in punishments like banishment or execution, fitting the crime's severity. For example, Okonkwo is banished for accidental killing. With colonial influence, traditional justice clashed with new laws, leading to tensions. Okonkwo's suicide reflects resistance to colonial legal authority. Modern Igbo justice incorporates formal legal systems but retains some traditional elements, highlighting a blend of old and new practices.
In Things Fall Apart, how does education promote Christianity among the Igbo?
In "Things Fall Apart," education promotes Christianity among the Igbo by intertwining religious teachings with literacy. Mr. Brown, a missionary, realizes that direct confrontation with the Igbo religion would fail, so he builds schools to educate the villagers, emphasizing the benefits of literacy for future leadership. This approach quickly gains favor as education leads to social advancement, and Christianity is integrated into the curriculum, resulting in the establishment of new churches and further spreading the religion.
Why did the Igbo consult oracles and is this unique?
The Igbo consulted oracles for guidance in major decisions, believing oracles acted as intermediaries between them and their gods. This practice is not unique to the Igbo; many cultures, including ancient Greeks, used oracles or similar figures to seek divine insight. Oracles were considered sources of wisdom, and their advice was sacred, with disobedience potentially leading to negative consequences. This practice reflects a broader religious tradition of seeking divine guidance through intermediaries.
What are the differences between Christianity and Igbo religion in Things Fall Apart?
The primary differences between Christianity and Igbo religion in Things Fall Apart include the monotheistic nature of Christianity, which believes in one God, contrasted with the Igbo's polytheistic beliefs, worshiping multiple gods and ancestral spirits. Christians view the Igbo gods as mere wood and stone, while Igbo people see them as powerful. The concept of the Holy Trinity also confuses the Igbo, highlighting cultural misunderstandings and religious conflicts.
What are the traditions of the Igbo clans in Things Fall Apart?
The Igbo clans in Things Fall Apart have complex traditions, including sacrificial revenge and the killing of twins. Okonkwo's tribe accepts the boy Ikemefuna as a peace offering, eventually killing him to settle a blood debt. Twins are considered evil and left to die. The Earth Goddess Ani and the Oracle hold significant power, influencing decisions like Okonkwo's seven-year exile for an accidental killing.
How does the idea of "progress" shape the novel Things Fall Apart?
The concept of "progress" in Things Fall Apart is portrayed as a double-edged sword, used by colonial powers to justify disrupting traditional Igbo society. The novel highlights how Westerners frame their imposition of Christianity and government as "progress," believing it civilizes and benefits the natives. However, this progress marginalizes native culture and values, as seen in the conflict between traditional beliefs and colonial influence, ultimately portraying progress as an unstoppable force that disrupts indigenous life.
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