Things Fall Apart: Key Quotes Chapters 4-6

Introduction

This section will break down key quotes within chapters 4-6 of “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe. Understanding these quotes and their relation to character development, themes, and plot progression will enhance your analysis and interpretation of the text.

Chapter 4 Key Quotes

“Even as a child, he had resented his father’s failure and weakness.”

This quote underlines the root cause of Okonkwo’s fear—his determination not to emulate his despised and unsuccessful father.

“Okonkwo’s prosperity was visible in his household. He had a large compound enclosed by a thick wall of red earth.”

Achebe communicates Okonkwo’s position in society visually, marking his prosperity and importance through the size and quality of his compound.

Chapter 5 Key Quotes

“Ekwefi had a great love for feasts.”

This quote humanizes Ekwefi, showing her personal likes beyond her role as Okonkwo’s wife.

“And when he walked, his heels hardly touched the ground, like a rooster trying to fly.”

This simile not only displays Achebe’s knack for vivid imagery but also emphasises Okonkwo’s pride, confidence, and enthusiasm.

Chapter 6 Key Quotes

“Why do you call him Nwoye? That is a woman’s name.”

This quote reflects the novel’s ongoing theme of gender roles and expectations. Okonkwo’s displeasure in Nwoye being associated with femininity shows his rigid views of masculinity.

“Ezinma took the dish in one hand and the empty water bowl in the other and went back to her mother’s hut.”

This quote underlines Ezinma’s caregiving role at a young age, highlighting the responsibilities placed on her by her society’s norms.

These quotes offer insight into the characters’ motivations and worldviews, helping us better understand the themes of masculinity, cultural expectations, and socioeconomic status in “Things Fall Apart”. It is crucial to remember these quotes in their relevant context to effectively analyse and discuss how they contribute to Achebe’s narrative.