Plot Events
Who is Ikemefuna, and why is he living with Okonkwo’s family?
A boy from another village given as peace offering after a murder.
Who is Okonkwo’s favorite child?
Ezinma
“A child’s fingers are not scalded by a piece of hot yam which its mother puts into its palm.” — What does this proverb mean?
Parents protect and care for their children.
What is an egwugwu?
A masked spirit that represents ancestors during tribal meetings.
What does fire symbolize for Okonkwo?
His anger and intensity — both power and destruction.
What happens to Ikemefuna in Chapter 7?
He is killed by the men of Umuofia.
Who is Ekwefi?
Okonkwo’s second wife and Ezinma’s mother.
“If I were you I would have stayed at home. You have committed a great evil.” — Who says this to Okonkwo?
Ezeani, the priest of the earth goddess.
What is the Week of Peace meant to celebrate?
Peace before the planting season begins.
What theme is shown when Okonkwo kills Ikemefuna despite the warning?
The conflict between emotion and masculinity/tradition.
What does Okonkwo do that makes Nwoye upset after Ikemefuna’s death?
He takes part in killing Ikemefuna.
Who is Chielo, and what is her role?
The priestess of Agbala, the Oracle.
“Mother is Supreme.” — What lesson does this teach?
Even when things are bad, one finds comfort and support with their mother.
Why is storytelling important in Igbo culture?
It teaches moral lessons and passes down traditions.
What lesson does the tortoise story teach?
Greed leads to one’s downfall.
What happens when Chielo comes to Okonkwo’s compound?
She takes Ezinma to see Agbala, the Oracle.
How does Nwoye change after Ikemefuna’s death?
He becomes withdrawn and begins to question tribal customs.
“When a man says yes, his chi says yes also.” — What does this mean about fate?
Hard work and determination shape one’s destiny.
Why does the clan avoid calling a snake by its name at night?
They believe it would bring the snake to them.
What theme is shown when the egwugwu solve the domestic dispute?
The importance of justice and tradition in the clan.
What is the conflict that the egwugwu (masked spirits) settle in Chapter 10?
A man accuses his wife’s family of taking her back without returning her bride price.
Who is the tortoise in Ekwefi’s story meant to represent?
A greedy or selfish person.
“Those whose palm-kernels were cracked for them by a benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble.” — What is the message?
Those who have had good fortune should stay humble.
What is the purpose of the bride price?
It shows respect to the bride’s family and seals the marriage agreement.
What theme connects Nwoye’s sadness and the folktales his mother told?
The tension between compassion and strict tradition.