Things Fall Apart: Character Profiles

Okonkwo

Okonkwo, the protagonist of the novel, is an esteemed warrior and farmer in Umuofia. He is defined by his personal pride, fear of failure, and deep-seated anger.
His life is directed by his fear of resembling his father, Unoka, perceived as weak, effeminate, and unsuccessful.
Okonkwo’s desire for masculinity and success leads him to make grave decisions, some of which bring on some harsh consequences.

Nwoye

Nwoye is Okonkwo’s eldest son who generally struggles under his father’s high expectations.
He seeks affection and understanding which he does not receive from his father, and eventually finds these qualities in Christianity.
Nwoye’s conversion to Christianity represents both a rejection of his father and his culture.

Ikemefuna

Ikemefuna is sent to live with Okonkwo as part of a peace settlement between Umuofia and another village.
He develops a close filial relationship with Okonkwo, who even prefers him to his real son Nwoye, leading to inner conflict when the oracle’s decree comes into play.
Ikemefuna’s death is a turning point in the novel and is a symbol of the impending doom of traditional Igbo society.

Ezinma

Ezinma is the daughter of Okonkwo and his favourite wife, Ekwefi. She is the only child of Ekwefi to survive past infancy.
Ezinma is a symbol of balance and fairness in the novel. She is also, in a way, the child Okonkwo always wanted, but she is a woman, highlighting ironies about gender and societal expectations.

Obierika

Obierika is Okonkwo’s closest friend in Umuofia. He is wise and thoughtful, unlike Okonkwo.
Often, Obierika’s character acts as a foil to Okonkwo, shining a light on Okonkwo’s flaws and extreme viewpoints.
His open-mindedness and ability to question the principles of his society make him an important voice in the novel.

Mr. Brown and Reverend James Smith

Mr. Brown is the first white Christian to live in Umuofia. He is tolerant, respectful towards the Igbo faith and makes genuine efforts to understand them.
Reverend Smith is intolerant, strict, and uncompromising. He embodies the negative side of colonialism and blind faith.
The contrast between Mr. Brown and Reverend Smith illuminates the theme of encroaching colonialism and highlights the danger of a lack of understanding in implementing foreign ideologies.