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.