Social Status & Identity
What personal achievement allows Okonkwo to gain respect in Umuofia despite his father’s reputation?
Success in yam farming and hard work.
Who do the villagers consult when they need guidance on important decisions?
The Oracle of the Hills and Caves.
How does Okonkwo generally treat his wives?
Harshly and with little patience.
What rule does Okonkwo break during the Week of Peace?
He beats his wife.
How does Achebe present Umuofia at the start of the novel?
As organised, structured, and culturally rich.
Why is Unoka considered unsuccessful in Umuofia society?
He is poor, in debt, avoids hard work, and lacks titles.
What is the role of Chielo in the community?
She is the priestess of Agbala and speaks on behalf of the Oracle.
What kind of relationship develops between Okonkwo and Ikemefuna?
A close father-son relationship.
What is Okonkwo’s punishment for breaking the Week of Peace?
He must sacrifice to the Earth goddess.
Why does Achebe include proverbs in the narrative?
To reflect Igbo culture and traditional wisdom.
What does taking titles represent in Igbo society?
Social status, honour, and achievement.
Why are the egwugwu important in Umuofia?
They represent ancestral spirits and act as judges.
Why does Nwoye begin to admire Ikemefuna?
Ikemefuna teaches him stories and behaviours Okonkwo approves of.
Why is Ikemefuna taken away from Okonkwo’s household?
The Oracle orders his death.
What is the effect of contrasting Okonkwo with Unoka?
It highlights Okonkwo’s motivations and character traits.
How does Okonkwo’s identity differ from his father’s in terms of values?
Okonkwo values strength, discipline, and success, while Unoka valued music, leisure, and avoided responsibility.
What does the Week of Peace reveal about Igbo beliefs?
It shows respect for the Earth goddess and belief in spiritual consequences for wrongdoing.
How does Okonkwo’s relationship with Nwoye differ from his relationship with Ikemefuna?
He is disappointed in Nwoye but proud of Ikemefuna.
Why does Okonkwo choose to strike the final blow against Ikemefuna?
He fears being seen as weak.
How does Achebe build tension before Ikemefuna’s death?
Through warnings, silence, and emotional conflict.
To what extent is Okonkwo’s identity self-made versus shaped by fear?
It is largely shaped by fear of becoming like his father, driving extreme behaviour.
How does the spiritual system reinforce order and control within the society?
Through fear of divine punishment, respect for ancestors, and reliance on oracles for decisions.
What does Okonkwo’s treatment of his family reveal about his understanding of strength?
He equates strength with harshness and emotional suppression.
How does this decision foreshadow future consequences for Okonkwo?
It highlights his tragic flaw and suggests future destructive choices.
How does Achebe use Ikemefuna’s death to develop both character and theme?
It reveals Okonkwo’s inner conflict and reinforces themes of masculinity and societal pressure.