Things Fall Apart, Chapter One

Imagine for a moment that you are a wealthy, respected warrior. If you were, you would have a lot in common with the protagonist Okonkwo. In the first chapter of Things Fall Apart, you will learn many things about Okonkwo, his village of Iguedo, and his youth. More importantly, you will begin to see some of the differences between Okonkwo and his father Unoka.

Theme and Motif

Chinua Achebe uses motif to reinforce the central themes in Things Fall Apart. A literary theme is a reccurring idea or a common thread that the author incorporates throughout a literary work. In a work of fiction like Things Fall Apart, the theme is extracted by the reader, much like a detective seeks clues. By analyzing the traits and actions of the characters, the story's motifs, and the setting, readers arrive at a conclusion about the author’s purpose as well as the themes of the novel. Motifs, events, and images within the story, help reinforce the theme.

Ibo Vocabulary

Before you begin reading Things Fall Apart, it is important for you to have a glossary of Ibo words and phrases. Review the flashcards in the interactivity to deepen your understanding of the novel and the Ibo culture. This interactivity contains index cards with vocabulary on one side and definitions on the other. Look at the vocabulary word and take a minute to see if you can determine the definition. Then, flip the card over to see if you were correct. Click the player button to get started.

View a printable version of this interactivity. You may also download the list Ibo Vocabulary List to use as a reference when you are reading Things Fall Apart.

Character Relationships

As you read Things Fall Apart, you will need to be able to associate characters with their roles and relationships. In this interactivity, use the previous and next buttons to learn about the relationships between Okonkwo and the other characters. Click the player button to get started.

View a printable version of this interactivity.

 

 

Analysis

Chapter One teaches you that Okonkwo is a well-respected wrestler of the Umufia clan. This clan is from the lower part of Nigeria and is connected with nine other villages. Okonkwo proves his bravery by defeating Amazlinze the Cat, who had gone undefeated for seven years. By defeating the Cat, Okonkwo brings honor to the Umuofia clan. Chapter One also taught you that Okonkwo is not like his father, Unoka. Unoka was fearful and not able to provide for his family, but he was also a talented flute player with a love of language.

Proverbs

The Ibo tribe loves to speak using proverbs. A proverb is a short but popular saying. Proverbs express the truth based on common sense or a practical experience. Examples of proverbs include “you can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make him drink” or, “good things come to those who wait.” In Chapter One, it is revealed that “Among the Ibo the art of conversation is regarded highly, and proverbs were the palm-oil with which words are eaten.” Palm oil is a staple in the Ibo culture; therefore, the proverbs are a staple in their conversations. They add essential flavor to their language.

 

Things Fall Apart, Father and Son Review

Okonkwo and his father, Unoka, are very different from one another. In this non-graded interactivity, test your knowledge about the protagonist and his father. After reading each question, check the boxes next to the correct answer or answers and click SUBMIT. Click the player button to get started.