Things Fall Apart

Chinua Achebe

Things Fall Apart, is the story of Okonkwo, a young man who brings honor to his village. Unlike his father, Unoka, Okonkwo is strong, and ambitious, atleast that is what he portrays. Unoka does not have a postive among those in his village, causing Okonkwo to be ashamed of him and to strive to rise above his father's legacy. Okwonkwo grows believing that his father is weak, a sign of "feminity," and when he sees his father's characteristics in his son, Ikemefuna, Okonkwo decides to kill him afraid of appearing weak. Okonkwo's life is dominated by fear and resentment. The story of Okonkwo is interesting, as it illustrates how certain traditional values or certain beliefs shape one's life.

Question:What role does dignity and ambition have in modern society? How does the image that others have of us shape our actions?