London Ravenell - TFA Study Guide - 18466249

Who is Unoka in 'Things Fall Apart'?

is Okonkwo's father, described as a gentle but irresponsible man, and represents everything Okonkwo despises.

What is Nwoye's struggle in the novel?

is Okonkwo's oldest son who struggles under his father's expectations and later converts to Christianity.

What role does Ikemefuna play in Okonkwo's life?

is a boy given to Umuofia as a peace offering, he lives with Okonkwo and is eventually killed by him.

How does Reverend Smith differ from Mr. Brown?

is a strict missionary who intensifies conflict between the Igbo and the church, unlike Mr. Brown who was kind and sought dialogue.

Who is Obierika and what is his relationship with Okonkwo?

is Okonkwo's best friend, who is thoughtful and questions tribal traditions, serving as a foil to Okonkwo.

What does the Kola nut symbolize in Igbo culture?

symbolizes life, respect, and welcome in Igbo society.

Why is gender so significant in 'Things Fall Apart'?

Gender shapes roles and values in Igbo society; men are seen as tough and responsible for leadership, while women are thought to handle household duties.

What happens to Ikemefuna and why?

Ikemefuna is killed as a sacrifice because he was linked to the death of an Umuofia girl, despite having lived peacefully in the village.

Why was Okonkwo exiled from Umuofia?

Okonkwo was exiled for accidentally killing the son of Ezeudu, the village elder.

What changes does Okonkwo notice in Umuofia upon his return?

Upon his return, Okonkwo notices that Christianity has spread, colonial rule is beginning, and traditional power structures are weakening.

What leads some Igbo people to be attracted to Christianity?

Some Igbo are attracted to Christianity because it offers them things that their own society could not provide.

How does Okonkwo view masculinity?

Okonkwo views masculinity as strength and toughness, despising anything associated with weakness.

What extended metaphor do the locusts represent in the novel?

The locusts serve as a metaphor for European colonialism, suggesting that their arrival appears natural but hints at destruction.

What are the consequences of Okonkwo's rigid adherence to masculinity?

Okonkwo's rigid masculinity leads to his emotional struggles, alienation from his family, and ultimately his tragic demise.

How does Obierika view Okonkwo's suicide?

Obierika blames the colonial commissioner for Okonkwo's death, seeing it as a result of the circumstances created by colonialism.