Things Fall Apart: Chapter 7

Things Fall Apart: Chapter 7

Introduction to Chapter 7

• In this chapter, the complex relationship between Ikemefuna and Okonkwo’s family, particularly Nwoye are further explored.
• Readers witness the consequences of decision-making when led by societal compulsions.

Key Themes

Fate and Free Will

• The ultimate fate of Ikemefuna demonstrates that despite human actions, certain outcomes might be unavoidable.
• The society’s will dictated Ikemefuna’s limbo-like existence and eventual death.

Conformism and Individuality

• Nwoye finds comfort in Ikemefuna, who feeds his interests in storytelling and cultural myths.
• But the pressure to conform to societal expectations and his father’s aggressive masculinity continues to shape his existence.

Influence and Education

• The influence of Ikemefuna on Nwoye gets highlighted as Nwoye starts taking interest in the masculine duties.

Language Use

• Achebe’s continues to use proverbs to communicate wisdom embedded in the Igbo culture.
• Vivid descriptions of the landscape and community lifestyle provide more depth to the portrayal of Umuofian society.

Symbols

Locusts

• Locusts descent upon the village is seen as a good omen as they are considered a tasty treat.
• However, they are also symbolic of an impending disaster or invasion.

Critical Events

• The critical event in this chapter is the death of Ikemefuna which is dictated by the Oracle and carried out by Okonkwo.
• This incident is pivotal in the narrative and drives a rift between Okonkwo and his son Nwoye.

Chapter 7 Summary

• Chapter 7 of “Things Fall Apart” further delves into the dynamic within Okonkwo’s household.
• It analyses the influence of societal expectation on individual actions and highlights the impact of decisions enforced by cultural customs.
• It explores Nwoye’s identity crisis and development in the shadow of Okonkwo’s masculinity.
• The chapter concludes on a tragic note, marking a turning point in the narrative with the death of Ikemefuna.