Things Fall Apart — Character List

Flashcards summarizing the main and secondary characters, as well as community and cultural figures from 'Things Fall Apart.'

Okonkwo

Protagonist, a respected warrior and leader in Umuofia, determined to be strong and avoid any sign of weakness.

Unoka

Okonkwo’s father, gentle and musical but considered lazy and irresponsible.

Nwoye

Okonkwo’s oldest son, sensitive and thoughtful, struggles under his father's expectations.

Ikemefuna

A boy given to Umuofia by another village, lives in Okonkwo’s household and becomes like a brother to Nwoye.

Ekwefi

Okonkwo’s second wife and the mother of Ezinma, strong and caring, has faced much grief.

Ezinma

Ekwefi’s only surviving child, smart and confident, and Okonkwo’s favorite child.

Obierika

Okonkwo’s best friend, more thoughtful and calm, questions the tribe’s traditions.

Chielo

Priestess of Agbala, treats Ezinma affectionately and becomes powerful when possessed by the Oracle.

Ojiugo

Okonkwo’s third and youngest wife, the one he beats during the Week of Peace.

Mr. Brown

First white missionary to arrive in Umuofia, patient and respectful towards Igbo culture.

Nwakego

Ekwefi’s friend who helps her during hard times.

Uchendu

Okonkwo’s mother’s brother who takes him in during exile and advises him about family and humility.

Ogbuefi Ezeudu

An elder in Umuofia who delivers important messages and warnings.

Nwakibie

A wealthy man who helps young Okonkwo get started with his first yam crop.

The Egwugwu

Masked spirits representing ancestral judges, actually important men of the clan in disguise.