Things Fall Apart | Characters & details

Okonkwo

A proud warrior who fears weakness and failure above all else

Unoka

Okonkwo father who was gentle artistic and irresponsible

Nwoye

Okonkwo son who is sensitive and conflicted

Ikemefuna

A boy given to Umuofia who becomes like a son to Okonkwo

Ekwefi

Okonkwo second wife and mother of Ezinma

Ezinma

Okonkwo favorite child who is intelligent and strong

Obierika

Okonkwo close friend who is thoughtful and balanced

Uchendu

Okonkwo uncle who teaches patience and balance

Mr. Brown

A missionary who is respectful and understanding

Revered Smith

A strict missionary who encourages conflict

District Commissioner

The colonial official who judges the Igbo people harshly

Chielo

The priestess of Agbala who commands respect

Ezeudu

A respected elder whose warning Okonkwo ignores

Amalinze the Cat

A famous wrestler defeated by Okonkwo

Osu

Social outcasts dedicated to gods

Agbala

The god of the Oracle

Evil Forest

Land believed to be cursed

Kola nut

A symbol of hospitality and respect

Palm wine

A traditional drink used in ceremonies

Egusi

A common soup ingredient

Chi

A personal spirit that guides an individual destiny

Egwugwu

Masked elders who represent ancestral spirits

Oracle

A religious authority that delivers the will of the gods

Umuofia

The main Igbo village in the novel

Week of Peace

A sacred time when violence is forbidden

Yam

A symbol of wealth masculinity and success