Things Fall Apart: Chapter 25

Things Fall Apart: Chapter 25

Chapter 25 Key Quotes

“In the end, he decided that the story should be titled The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger.”

  • Pacification and Primitive Tribes are derogatory terms that demonstrate the district commissioner’s arrogance and belittlement towards the Igbo people.
  • This quote is an example of how Achebe subtly points out the dangers of a single story - framing an entire culture through a narrow, biased perspective.

“He had already chosen the title of the book…The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger.”

  • This repetition of the proposed title emphasises the district commissioner’s dismissive attitude towards Igbo culture.
  • More broadly, it reflects the tendency to trivialise African cultures and histories during the colonial era.

“He had thought about that title for a long time…“

  • This statement reveals the self-importance of the district commissioner, suggesting his belief in his own authority to tell the story of the Igbo people.
  • Indicates a sense of entitlement imbued within the colonial powers, who felt they knew more about African societies than the locals themselves.

Chapter 25 Significant Themes

Cultural Dominance and Disregard

  • The district commissioner’s decision to write a book about the Igbo people illustrates how colonial powers exhibited cultural dominance and deliver narratives that suit their own viewpoints.
  • His lack of empathy and understanding for the local culture shows the disregard and disrespect for African societies inherent in colonialism.

Marginalisation and Single Narrative

  • By deciding to write the book from his perspective, the district commissioner essentially marginalises the voice of the Igbo people.
  • Achebe points out the danger of a single narrative, which can skew perceptions and contribute to cultural misunderstanding and stereotyping.

Death and Lost Honour

  • Okonkwo’s death, seen as abominable in the Igbo culture, symbolises his complete alienation due to his unbending pride. It signifies a cultural loss and the decline of the honour he held so dearly.
  • Okonkwo’s end in a dishonourable way metaphorically speaks to the end of the indigenous culture under the destructive influence of colonialism.