Things Fall Apart | Summaries

Chapter one

Okonkwo is introduced as a strong and respected warrior in Umuofia who is famous for defeating Amalinze the Cat. The chapter contrasts Okonkwo with his father Unoka who was lazy and poor. This establishes the theme of fear of failure and masculinity

Chapter two

The village prepares for possible war with Mbaino after a woman is murdered. Okonkwo is chosen as an emissary because of his status. The chapter shows the importance of justice and collective decision making

Chapter three

Unoka visits the Oracle and learns his poverty is caused by laziness not bad luck. Okonkwo reflects on his childhood shame. This chapter emphasizes personal responsibility

Chapter four

Okonkwo is hardworking but harsh and impatient. He breaks the Week of Peace by beating his wife. This shows that strength without balance is dangerous

Chapter five

The Feast of the New Yam is celebrated to honor the earth goddess. Okonkwo is angry during the festivities and beats his second wife. The chapter highlights tension between joy and violence

Chapter six

The village holds wrestling matches watched by the entire community. Okonkwo feels pride watching his son Nwoye. The chapter emphasizes tradition and masculinity

Chapter seven

Ikemefuna lives with Okonkwo family and becomes a role model for Nwoye. The Oracle orders Ikemefuna death and Okonkwo participates in killing him. This is a major turning point showing Okonkwo fear of weakness

Chapter eight

Okonkwo feels inner guilt but refuses to show emotion. Nwoye becomes distant and confused. The chapter shows emotional consequences of violence

Chapter nine

Ezinma becomes very ill and Ekwefi worries she will die. Okonkwo shows concern for Ezinma despite his tough exterior. This reveals his hidden tenderness

Chapter ten

The egwugwu court settles a domestic dispute. Justice is shown as spiritual and communal. This chapter explains traditional law

Chapter eleven

Ezinma is taken by the priestess Chielo. Ekwefi follows her through the night and Okonkwo secretly follows too. This shows parental love and faith in tradition

Chapter twelve

A wedding celebration is held with rituals and feasting. Guns are fired and one explodes injuring people. This foreshadows future tragedy

Chapter thirteen

Ezeudu funeral includes gunfire and ritual mourning. Okonkwo gun kills Ezeudu son by accident. Okonkwo is exiled for seven years

Chapter fourteen

Okonkwo arrives in Mbanta his mother village for exile. He is welcomed by his uncle Uchendu who comforts him. This chapter explains the importance of maternal support

Chapter fifthteen

Obierika visits Okonkwo and brings news of Umuofia. Ikemefuna death is discussed again showing lingering guilt. The chapter emphasizes reflection and regret

Chapter sixteen

Nwoye becomes interested in the Christian missionaries. Their message appeals to his sense of justice and peace. This shows the first major clash of cultures

Chapter seventeen

The missionaries are given land in the Evil Forest. They survive which impresses many villagers. This marks the growing influence of Christianity

Chapter eighteen

The church grows and includes outcasts called osu. Conflict rises between converts and traditionalists. This chapter shows social change and division

Chapter nineteen

Okonkwo plans his return to Umuofia after exile. He dreams of restoring his status. This chapter shows hope mixed with pride

Chapter twenty

Okonkwo returns to Umuofia to find it changed by missionaries. Many leaders have lost power. This shows irreversible change

Chapter twenty one

The white men government and court are described. The villagers realize their unity is weakening. This chapter explains colonial control

Chapter twenty two

The egwugwu burn down the church in protest. This is an act of resistance. Tension reaches a peak

Chapter twenty three

Okonkwo and other leaders are jailed and humiliated. They are whipped and fined. This shows injustice and abuse of power

Chapter twenty four

Okonkwo kills a messenger during a village meeting. The crowd does not support him. This shows his final break from the clan

Chapter twenty five

Okonkwo takes his own life after realizing Umuofia will not fight. He is buried by strangers because suicide is taboo. The novel ends with cultural misunderstanding