STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Trace the tragic element in Things Fall Apart .

2. Draw a character sketch of the hero and show how he is symbolic of his culture.

3. Examine the role superstition and religion plays in the life described in Things Fall Apart .

4. Outline the tragic errors or faults in Okonkwo that finally lead to his downfall.

5. Describe the gradual entry of the British administration into the tribal society and its final take-over of Umuofia. What aspects of their culture allowed the British to take over?

6. Examine NwoyeÂ’s role in the novel and his relationship to his father.

7. Analyze the title Things Fall Apart in terms of the destruction of the tribal ways and customs. How do ‘things fall apart’?

9. Examine OkonkwoÂ’s concept of masculinity. What does it entail and why does he think this way?

10. Discuss the differences between the two missionary figures, Mr. Brown and Mr. Smith. What are their attitudes towards the IgboÂ’s customs and religion? Give examples.

11. What contribution do women make to Igbo culture? Why are these contributions important to the survival of the culture?

12. How is the colonialist system more primitive than the Igbo system which is perceived that way by the District Commissioner?

13. How does Okonkwo contribute to his own demise? How does the colonialist enterprise contribute to his death?

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