Ch. 1
Who is the protagonist of the story?
Okonkwo
Why is everyone called to the town center?
A woman of Umuofia has been killed in Mbaino.
What is an oracle?
A priest or priestess acting as a medium through whom advice or prophecy was sought from gods
How does Okonkwo break the Week of Peace?
He beats his wife, who has left her children while she goes to get her hair done.
Violent, strong, short-tempered, hard-working, intimidating, a good fighter
Who is Okonkwo's father?
Unoka
How is Umuofia described?
It is feared by neighboring villages; they are very strong and have fierce fighters.
How does Unoka die?
A shameful death. He gets the "swelling" and is left tied to a tree in the woods to die.
How is Ikemefuna raised in Okonkwo's family?
He lives with Okonkwo's first wife and eldest son, Nwoye. They are raised as brothers.
How would you characterize Unoka?
A failure, a man who owes many debts, unsuccessful
Where is this story set? (Think what is the modern day country)
Who is sent to as an emissary to Mbaino in Ch. 2?
Okonkwo
He has many wives, children, and multiple barns.
How could you describe Okonkwo as a teacher, when he is showing Nwoye and Ikemefuna how to grow yams?
Harsh, impatient, mean
What is the name of Okonkwo's eldest son?
Nwoye
What kind of relationship do Unoka and Okonkwo have?
They are opposites. Unoka is a failure and Okonkwo is a successful and wealthy man.
How does Okonkwo run his household?
With fear. His wives and children are afraid of him.
Why does Okonkwo have to go to Nwakibie for yam seed?
His own father cannot provide any, so he is left to fend for himself.
What are yams seen as a symbol of?
Manliness/ masculinity
How does Okonkwo feel about Ikemefuna?
Okonkwo is very fond of Ikemefuna but he never shows it.
What is the name of Okonkwo's village?
Umuofia
Who is Ikemefuna?
A young boy who is sent back to Umuofia with Okonkwo in repayment for a debt. He lives with Okonkwo and his family.
What is Agbala?
Agbala is the name of the Oracle in Umuofia.
What could be some examples of Okonkwo's tragic flaw?
Impatience, violence, ego, desire to appear manly, anger
How does some of Okonkwo's behavior exemplify the theme of appearance vs. reality?
Okonkwo acts strong, angry, and manly all the time, but in reality, he is aware that he is being overly harsh and mean. He knows he should be gentler, but does not change his behavior. He loves Ikemefuna, but does not show it.