Culture and Traditions
What currency do the Ibo people use?
Cowries
The novel is set in the country now called _________.
Nigeria
Okonkwo is considered a famous warrior who gained his fame by throwing which character?
Amalinze "the cat"
It was assumed that the missionaries would be killed by the evil spirits when they were given land where?
Evil Forest
Who is the author of Things Fall Apart?
Chinua Achebe
Considered evil, _________ are often thrown away.
Twins
Okonkwo lives in the village of ___________.
Umuofia
Considered a lazy man who died in debt, this character is responsible for making Okonkwo the successful, harsh man he is today. Who is this?
Unoka
What did Okonkwo ask his daughters to wait to do until they arrived back home to Umuofia?
Wait to marry
Which crop is a staple in the Igbo tribe?
Yams
Why does Nowye convert to Christianity?
To reject the excessive standard of masculinity his father wants him up to uphold.
How does the village of Umuofia serve as a reflection of the Igbo culture?
Custos, social structure, and community life.
What role does masculinity play in Okonkwo's life and decisions?
It drives Okonkwo to act violently and make decisions that often lead to his downfall.
In what ways does the village of Umuofia react to the arrival of the missionaries?
The village has mixed reactions, with some resisting the changes while others are curious or accepting.
What is the difference in demeanor in Okonkwo and Obierika?
Possible Answers: Obierika is calm and logical. Okonkwo is is brash and violent.
What are the similarities and difference between Christianity and the Igbo religion?
Differences: Christianity is monotheistic (one God).bo is polytheistic (multiple gods)
Similarities: Believe in a higher power and value community.
How did the municipal government affect Umuofia?
Brought trade, education, healthcare, and increased converts to Christianity.
This character was now called Isaac and got sent to the new training college for teachers in Umuru
Nwoye
What event are foreshadowed in the following text? "A cold shiver ran down Okonkwo's back as he remembered the last time the old man had visited him. 'That boy calls you father,' he had said. "Bear no hand in his death.'"
The death of Ezeudu's son.
What's the irony behind the death of Okonkwo?
His biggest fear of being seen as weak came through by committing suicide. Taking the easy way out rather than facing and embracing the changes.
What is one of the greatest crimes a man could commit in this culture?
Unmask an egwugwu in public, or to say or do anything which might reduce its immortal prestige in the eyes of the uninitiated
How does Achebe's depiction of the Igbo village of Umuofia contribute to the overall themes of tradition and change in "Things Fall Apart"?
Rich Traditions, Societal structure, family structure, cultural ceremonies, etc. all change when the white men come
How does Okonkwo justify his death?
He would rather die on his own terms than by those who don't understand his culture.
How does Okonkwo’s suicide represent a break in the traditional Igbo culture?
It goes against everything Okonkwo strived for the entire novel: respecting and honoring his culture.
How does the author use symbolism in this text?
Duckling or Locusts