Things Fall Apart: Chapter 8
Things Fall Apart: Chapter 8
Introduction to Chapter 8
- Chapter 8 further delves into the life of Okonkwo, highlighting his personal, emotional and circumstantial changes.
- The chapter continues Achebe’s exploration of traditional values within the Umuofian society and how the protagonist fits within it.
- It provides new glimpses to the protagonist’s harsh interpretations and actions linked to masculine and societal expectations.
Key Themes
Loss and Sorrow
- Okonkwo’s emotional turmoil over the departure of Ikemefuna is fully revealed in this chapter, showing a softer side of his personality.
- He mourns his adopted son, contrary to his previous insistence on detachment, presenting a paradoxical aspect of characterisation.
Social and Personal Norms
- Okonkwo’s refusal to eat for two days after Ikemefuna’s death illustrates the severity of his distress, a contrast against his conventional masculine image.
- It brings out the norms in the Umuofian society where men are expected to suppress displays of emotion.
Tradition and Change
- Ikemefuna’s death marked significant change in Okonkwo’s life, which furthers Achebe’s portrayal of the continuously evolving socio-cultural landscape.
Language Use
- Achebe’s diction, use of similes and proverbs reflects his deep understanding and rich representation of the Igbo language and culture.
- Okonkwo’s reaction to his loss, using comparison to women’s grief, clearly illustrates the societal gender roles in Umuofian society.
Symbols
Hardships and Locusts
- Frequent comparison of hardships to locusts continues, symbolically linking Okonkwo’s current adversities with the impending doom that locusts often herald.
- This foreshadows greater challenges on the horizon for Okonkwo and the society at large.
Critical Events
- Okonkwo’s grief over Ikemefuna’s death and his difficulty in coping marks a significant event revealing a stark internal struggle.
- Okonkwo’s decision to visit his friend Obierika and his criticising the Oracle’s decision subtly highlight his questioning of traditional norms.
Chapter 8 Summary
- Chapter 8 offers a notable shift in Okonkwo’s character, presenting his softer side that struggles with the harsh expectations of Igbo masculinity.
- It subtly questions specific societal norms and portrays the protagonists’ inability at personal expression.
- The impending changes are symbolised through locusts and Okonkwo’s questioning attitude towards traditions foreshadows the future conflicts.