The Principal Themes in Chinua Achebe’s 'Things Fall Apart'

🌍The novel explores the destructive effects of European colonization and the pressures put on a changing culture.

📖It highlights the clash between new and traditional beliefs and the impact of cultural change.

🌎The novel portrays a fully functioning ebo society with elaborate belief systems and social organization.

😂The British arrogantly assume they are bringing culture and enlightenment to primitive people.

👀Okonkwo represents resistance to cultural change and the consequences of refusing to adapt.

What are the main themes explored in 'Things Fall Apart'?

—The main themes explored in 'Things Fall Apart' are the destructive effects of European colonization, the clash between new and traditional beliefs, the impact of cultural change, and the consequences of resistance to change.

How does the novel portray ebo society?

—The novel portrays ebo society as a fully functioning community with elaborate belief systems, thriving agriculture, communal justice, and well-established social organization.

What is the attitude of the British colonizers towards the ebo people?

—The British colonizers assume arrogantly that they are bringing culture and enlightenment to primitive people, dismissing the rich culture and societal organization of the ebo.

What is the role of fate and free will in the novel?

—The novel explores the belief in fate in ebo religion, where a person's Chi or personal God is said to predetermine their fate. However, it also emphasizes the influence of an individual's will on their destiny.

How does Okonkwo represent resistance to change?

—Okonkwo refuses to shift his beliefs and behaviors, particularly because the British do not see the ebo as their equals. This resistance ultimately leads to his downfall.

00:10The title of the novel nods to the destructive effects of European colonization and the general pressures on a changing culture.

00:36The novel showcases a fully functioning ebo society with elaborate belief systems and well-established social organization.

01:21The arrival of white men and missionaries brings significant cultural changes, including new religion and government institutions.

02:25Okonkwo represents resistance to cultural change and refuses to shift his beliefs and behaviors.

02:51Okonkwo sees the acceptance of the missionaries by the clan as a betrayal of their tradition and warlike ancestors.