Things Fall Apart

Definition

Things Fall Apart is a novel by Chinua Achebe that explores the clash between traditional Igbo society and colonial influence in Nigeria during the late 19th century. The term encapsulates the disintegration of cultural identity and social structures as external forces challenge indigenous beliefs, particularly in relation to life, death, and spiritual beliefs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel illustrates the life of Okonkwo, a respected leader in the Igbo community, whose personal struggles reflect the broader cultural upheaval caused by colonialism.
2. Achebe uses proverbs and oral storytelling techniques to emphasize the importance of tradition within Igbo society.
3. The arrival of European missionaries and colonial administrators represents a significant turning point that disrupts the social fabric of Igbo life.
4. Achebe critiques both colonial powers and traditional Igbo customs, showing how both can lead to personal and societal conflict.
5. Things Fall Apart is often considered one of the first major African novels in English and has played a pivotal role in shaping postcolonial literature.

Review Questions

• How does Achebe illustrate the tension between tradition and change in Things Fall Apart?
  • Achebe illustrates this tension through the character of Okonkwo, who embodies traditional Igbo values but struggles to adapt to the changing dynamics brought by colonialism. His resistance to change ultimately leads to his downfall, symbolizing the broader conflict faced by Igbo society. The disruptions caused by missionaries and colonial governance challenge not only individual identities but also the very foundations of cultural practices.
• Discuss how colonialism impacts the characters and society depicted in Things Fall Apart.
  • Colonialism profoundly impacts the characters and society in Things Fall Apart by introducing new beliefs and systems that undermine traditional Igbo customs. Characters like Okonkwo grapple with their roles as their community faces external pressures, leading to divisions within families and among friends. The narrative shows how colonial rule not only disrupts social structures but also instills feelings of helplessness and despair among those who once held power.
• Evaluate how Achebe’s portrayal of Igbo culture contributes to contemporary discussions on identity and postcolonialism.
  • Achebe’s portrayal of Igbo culture serves as a critical lens through which contemporary discussions on identity and postcolonialism can be understood. By showcasing the richness of Igbo traditions alongside the destructive impact of colonialism, Achebe highlights the complexities of cultural identity in a postcolonial context. This duality encourages readers to reflect on how historical narratives shape current perceptions of identity and belonging, prompting ongoing conversations about cultural resilience and adaptation in today's world.

Related terms

Igbo Culture: The traditional customs, beliefs, and practices of the Igbo people, an ethnic group from southeastern Nigeria, which are depicted in Achebe's work.

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring control over another country or territory, often involving subjugation of the local population and exploitation of resources, which plays a central role in the novel's themes.

Cultural Disintegration: The process by which a culture loses its distinct characteristics and values due to external pressures or influences, a key theme in Achebe's narrative.