Study Notes on 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe (copy)

Chinua Achebe

Author of 'Things Fall Apart', one of the first African novels written in English to gain global acclaim.

Year of Publication

1959, the year 'Things Fall Apart' was first published.

W. B. Yeats

Author of the epigraph quoted in 'Things Fall Apart', reflecting themes of chaos and disintegration.

Okonkwo

Main character in 'Things Fall Apart', known for his wrestling prowess and strict upbringing.

Unoka

Okonkwo's father, seen as a failure who loved music and represented laziness.

Ikemefuna

Boy taken into Okonkwo's household as part of clan justice and becomes close to Nwoye.

Oracle Agbala

A guiding force in the community, consulted for important decisions regarding farming and harvests.

Festival of the New Yam

Cultural event in 'Things Fall Apart' marking the new yields and honoring the earth goddess, Ani.

Enoch

A character whose defiance of tradition significantly impacts the narrative and signifies the arrival of missionaries.

Themes of Masculinity

Explores Okonkwo's struggles with societal expectations of male power and legacy.

Cultural Identity Crisis

Conflict arising from the clash between traditional beliefs and new customs introduced by colonizers.

Agbala

Priest or prophet in the community, representing a significant aspect of cultural reverence.

Osu

Outcasts in the society of Umuofia, symbolizing rejection and marginalization.

Things Fall Apart

A novel by Chinua Achebe that critically examines the impact of colonialism and the struggle within African cultures.