Themes
What theme is reinforced by Okonkwo’s disappointment in Umuofia’s changes?
Tradition vs. Culture
"When he killed Odcuche in the fight over the land, he fled to Aninta to escape the wrath of the earth." (Achebe, 177)
Personification
Who is the antagonist in this chapter in Things Fall Apart?
British Missionaries
Where has Okonkwo been living before his return to Umuofia?
Mbanta
What part of the novel’s structure does Chapter 20 fall into?
Falling action, as Okonkwo returns to a changed Umuofia.
How does Chapter 20 explore the theme of colonialism and resistance?
Okonkwo wants to fight back, but many in Umuofia have adapted to the new system.
"She had, it was true, her moments of depression when she would snap at everyone like an angry dog."(Achebe, 173)
Simile
Who is Okonkwo's best friend, known for his wisdom and level-headness?
Oberieka
In Okonkwo's absence, what has changed in Umofia?
The British have established a government, a prison, and a greater Christian influence.
How does Chapter 20 build tension for Okonkwo’s eventual downfall?
It has foreshadows of his inability to adapt to colonial rule.
How does Okonkwo’s return to Umuofia highlight the erosion of traditional Igbo society?
His expectations of reclaiming status are shattered as the village has embraced colonial rule, showing how tradition is overtaken by external forces
"As they cut grass in the morning the younger men sang in time with the strokes of their machetes." (Achebe, 175)
Imagery
How does Okonkwo’s vision of his return to Umuofia differ from reality?
He expects to reclaim his status as a respected leader, but instead, he finds a society that has largely moved on without him.
How has the role of the elders changed under British rule, and what does this symbolize?
Elders have lost their authority, symbolizing the collapse of the traditional power structure in Umuofia
How does Achebe use dialogue in this chapter to contrast Okonkwo and Obierika’s views on colonialism?
Okonkwo wants to fight, but Obierika explains that resistance is nearly impossible.
How does Achebe use symbolism in Chapter 20 to show colonial dominance?
Okonkwo equates resistance with strength and views his clan’s passivity as weakness.
"He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart." (Achebe, 176)
Metaphor
Why does Okonkwo feel a greater sense of urgency to fight back against colonial rule compared to the other leaders of Umuofia?
Okonkwo’s identity is deeply tied to traditional values, and he sees inaction as a sign of weakness, whereas others recognize that fighting back could bring destruction.
Why does Okonkwo feel that Umuofia has become weak?
The villagers are accepting the changes rather than resisting them.
How does the presence of the British court change the way justice is handled in Umuofia?
The British court replaces the Igbo system of communal justice with an imposed legal system, which disregards traditional customs and values
How does Okonkwo’s fear of failure compare to his father’s, Unoka?
Okonkwo fears being seen as weak, while Unoka feared poverty and conflict—both struggle with societal expectations.
"The other people were released, but even now they have not found the mouth with which to tell their suffering." (Achebe, 177)
Metaphor
Why does Okonkwo’s final attempt to resist colonial rule (killing the messenger) fail to inspire his people?
The villagers are too afraid of the colonial authorities to join him, showing that their will to fight has been broken.
How does the setting in Chapter 20 contrast with the Umuofia Okonkwo once knew?
Before, Umuofia was independent and followed Igbo customs; now, it is controlled by the British.
How does the District Commissioner’s view of Igbo culture reflect colonial arrogance?
He sees Igbo traditions as primitive and unworthy of respect, demonstrating the condescending attitude that justifies colonial domination.