Setting
This crop, considered the "king of crops," is central to life in Umuofia.
What are yams?
Okonkwo is exiled to this place after accidentally killing a fellow clansman.
What is the land of his birth/motherland/Mbanta?
This character’s name is changed to Isaac after joining the Christian church.
Who is Nwoye/Okonkwo's son?
This insect swarm excites the villagers, for whom it is a source of food.
Much of the villagers’ important communication happens after this item is cracked and shared.
What is a kola nut?
This event causes Okonkwo to fall into a period of depression and despair.
What is the death of Ikemefuna?
Okonkwo is often described as a foil to this family member who was known for his love of music and lack of ambition.
Who is Unoka/Okonkwo's father?
This sound is described as a unifying force, symbolizing the heart of the Igbo people.
What is the drumbeat?
The village leaders offer this location to the Christian missionaries to build their church.
What is the Evil Forest?
This serious crime committed by Enoch involves disrespecting one of the egwugwu.
What is the unmasking of one of the egwugwu?
This missionary attempts to build a respectful relationship with the villagers.
A man’s chi represents this spiritual concept central to Igbo beliefs.
What is a personal god that influences one's fate?
This event is held annually to honor the earth goddess Ani and mark the start of a new harvest.
What is the Feast of the New Yam?
Okonkwo kills this figure in defiance of the white colonizers and their influence.
What is a court messenger?
Okonkwo’s favorite child, this character defies traditional gender roles and is shown significant affection by him.
Who is Ezinma/Okonkwo's daughter?
This symbol, referred to as an “iron horse,” is a source of curiosity and fear among the villagers.
What is a bicycle?
These nine spirits, represented by masked men, serve as judges in the clan’s court system.
What are the egwugwu?
The story ends with this symbolic act, signaling Okonkwo’s ultimate defeat.
What is Okonkwo's suicide?
This close friend of Okonkwo disagrees with certain clan customs, such as punishing a man for a “female crime.”
Who is Obierika?
The title Things Fall Apart is taken from this famous poem by W.B. Yeats, linking the novel to global themes of change and disorder.
What is "The Second Coming?"