One of
the primary themes in Achebe's classic novel concerns the clash of cultures. When the white
Europeans colonize the region, they begin to convert the villagers of Umuofia as they slowly
introduce Igbo society to western culture. More and more villagers convert to Christianity and
begin to assimilate into the European culture, which undermines their traditional African ways
of life. The village of Umuofia is dramatically transformed and staunch, intolerant
traditionalists likerebel against their changing culture. The European colonizers and the Igbo
traditionalists oppose each other and misunderstandings between each culture lead to bloodshed.
Achebe explores the unfortunate outcomes involved in a culture clash.
Another
primary theme explored throughout the novel concerns one's destiny. Various references are made
to Okonkwo's chi and whether or not his destiny is positive. Initially,
Okonkwo's chi is portrayed as positive and aligns with his determined,
hard-working personality. As the novel progresses, Okonkwo makes several terrible decisions and
his chi is described as being cursed, which implies that he was doomed from
the beginning to die like his father. Okonkwo becomes a tragic hero, whose inflexible, masculine
nature leads to his demise. Throughout the novel, Okonkwo loses his titles, is exiled to his
motherland, and eventually commits suicide after decapitating a white messenger.
Achebe also explores the theme of the complexities of Igbo culture. As a response to
Conrad's novella Heart of Darkness, Achebe describes the complexities of
Igbo culture in detail. Achebe illustrates the rich Nigerian traditions, depicts the various
rituals of Igbo society, and presents its judicial system as sound, coherent, and fair. Achebe
describes various religious ceremonies and the villagers of Umuofia are depicted as intelligent
and civilized. Achebe's novel challenges prejudiced beliefs of the time regarding Africans by
depicting the Igbo culture as rich, fascinating, and civil.
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