Things Fall Apart: Chapter 6

Things Fall Apart: Chapter 6

Introduction to Chapter 6

• Chapter 6 details the annual wrestling match, a notable sport and tradition in Umuofia.
• Ekwefi and Ezinma, Okonkwo’s second wife and their daughter respectively, are introduced to the reader.
• This chapter contributes further to the depiction of Igbo culture, social traditions, and interpersonal relationships.

Key Themes Illustrated

Tradition and Cultural Practices

• The wrestling match signifies the importance of physical strength and sportsmanship in the Igbo community.
• The event also builds towards the theme of societal expectations and traditional roles.

Family Relationships and Gender Roles

• The relationship between Ekwefi and Ezinma shows the maternal bonds and the position of women and children in Igbo society.
• The affection Okonkwo shows towards Ezinma, though indirectly, marks an exception to his usual masculine displays.

Language Use

• Descriptive language and imagery vividly present the wrestling match and compel the reader to engage with the narrative.
• Achebe uses dialogue to depict the relationships between characters, such as that between Ekwefi and her daughter, Ezinma.

Symbols

Wrestling Match

• The wrestling match stands as a symbol of strength, bravery, and societal hierarchy in Igbo culture.

Critical Events

• The wrestling competition takes place, featuring Okonkwo’s friend, Amalinka.
• Ezinma, Okonkwo’s favourite daughter, and her mother, Ekwefi, are introduced to the reader.

Chapter 6 Summary

• Chapter 6 of “Things Fall Apart” provides a colourful depiction of the Igbo culture’s importance of physical prowess, as reflected in the annual wrestling matches.
• This chapter gives an insight into the familial relationships, particularly the tenderness and warmth shared between Ekwefi and her daughter, Ezinma.
• It also subtly hints at Okonkwo’s fondness for Ezinma, adding a softer facet to his character.