Things Fall Apart: Theme & Key Quotes: Change

Theme: Change in “Things Fall Apart”

Change is a powerful theme that cuts across “Things Fall Apart,” underlining the transitioning society grappling with the advent of colonial forces.
This theme is intricately linked to the downfall of Okonkwo and the disintegration of the Igbo culture.
The resistance, acceptance and reactions to change play a key role in the evolving storyline.

Change signifies the transition from traditional to new societal structures and beliefs.
The theme gathers prominence with White men’s arrival, failing attempts to resist their influence and imposition of their laws and religion.
Change marks the dynamics of societal transformation with the juxtaposition of conflicting cultures.

Okonkwo is a staunch traditionalist, resistant to change, representing the faction of the society that is averse to the imposition of British values and laws.
Characters like Nwoye and Mr Brown represent those who embrace the new faith and education, viewing change as a means to progress.
The District Commissioner stands for the imperial invaders who enforce the change upon the native culture.

“The clan was like a giant snake, obedient to its head but without being uniform.” - The clan’s dynamics symbolise the shift in the societal structure from unified to fragmented in the face of imposed change.
“The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay.” - This quote depicts the gradual, almost inconspicuous, process of change.
“He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart.” Okonkwo’s narration fittingly verbalises the destructive impact of the change induced by colonial influence.

The theme of change fuels the overall plot, as the people grapple with a culture shock and the traditional principles are put into question.
It births the critical conflict between the native and the colonial and shapes the lives of characters, marking a turning point in the narrative trajectory.
Okonkwo’s tragic end underlines the frailty of resistance against a dominant change. His downfall resonates with the shattering of ancient societal structures and norms.

The theme of change in “Things Fall Apart” reflects the dominant culture clash central to the novel. It facilitates a critical analysis of the impact of European colonialism on African societies.
It signifies the inherent struggle and devastating consequences of resisting or accepting the change and offers a poignant commentary on the erosion of indigenous cultures.