Things Fall Apart: Chapter 21

Things Fall Apart: Chapter 21

Introduction to Chapter 21

  • In Chapter 21, Achebe explores the resurgence of Umuofia in the absence of Okonkwo. This chapter builds a contrasting situation with Okonkwo’s violent and steadfast resistance to colonial infiltration.
  • The community around Okonkwo sees potential for prosperity and recovery due to the arrival of the white men and their opportunities.

Key Themes Illustrated

Cultural Exchange and Influence

  • Chapter 21 focuses on how the Igbo community adapts to the foreign influences, setting a market place where both the culture can exchange and trade resources.
  • The white men do not completely obliterate the local culture but also adopt some of the indigenous practices.

Reformation and Adaptation

  • Not everyone perceives the arrival of the white men as a threat. The villagers see the positive impact in terms of trade and prosperity the foreigners bring along.
  • This underscores the theme of adaptation in the face of external influences.

Language Use

  • Achebe continues to mix Igbo proverbs with English language cementing the native flavour into the narrative.
  • The descriptions of the marketplace and the court reflect the gradual integration of European customs into the Igbo society.

Symbols

Marketplace

  • The marketplace forms a vital symbol in Chapter 21, symbolic of a space where the cultures meet, trade and understand each other. This symbolises the socio-cultural exchange and compromise.

Critical Events

  • Okonkwo’s family is finally beginning to recover from the shameful exile.
  • The readers get to see the court system and the marketplace, both symbolising the cross-cultural exchange happening in Umuofia.
  • Okonkwo expresses his reluctance to adapt and reform, retaining his discontent for the invading forces.

Chapter 21 Summary

  • Chapter 21 from “Things Fall Apart” acts as a contrasting narrative to the previous chapters where Okonkwo’s prolonged resistance to change and adaptation is showcased.
  • This chapter presents the other side of the coin where the villagers acknowledge the benefits of trading and partnering with the colonisers instead of seeing them as threats.
  • While the emergence of new institutions and practices reflect the shift in Umuofian society, Okonkwo’s disenchantment paints a picture of resistance and struggle against this change.