Grade 11 - Theme and character analysis THINGS FALL APART.pptx

heme and character analysis THINGS FALL APART

1. WHO DO YOU THINK THIS MAN IS?? Curated by Sir Chris

2. Lesson aims & objectives Discuss key themes Discuss key characters Demonstrate understanding through written and oral responses

3. Context Is a novel by Nigerian author Chinua Achebe. It tells the story of Okonkwo, a respected Igbo warrior and farmer, as he struggles to maintain his culture and status during a time of great change. Conflicting qualities The story is set in a fictional village called Umuofia in pre-colonial Nigeria and follows the arrival of European missionaries and colonizers, which causes major upheaval in traditional Igbo society.

4. KEY CHARACTERS Okonkwo Proud, violent, traditional & v alues masculinity From respected warrior to tragic hero Nwoye Sensitive, questioning, drawn to new faith Represents youth rejecting old norms Obierika Thoughtful, loyal friend Voice of reason; questions customs

5. Ezinma Wise beyond her years, Okonkwo's favorite Symbol of hope and continuity Mr. Brown & Rev. Smith Contrasting missionary leaders Tolerance vs. Intolerance

6. MAIN THEMES Tradition vs. Change The novel shows the clash between traditional Igbo culture, the arrival of Christianity and British colonial rule. Okonkwo wants to keep things as they are, but his society is changing, and he can’t stop it. ( Chapter 19-21) Colonialism and Cultural conflict Missionaries bring a new religion (Christianity) and a new government. Some villagers accept it, while others resist. European influence disrupts Igbo traditions and belief systems —it affects religion, family, identity, and power. (Chapter 21–25)

7. Masculinity and Pride Okonkwo believes being a man means being strong, unemotional, and dominant. He looks down on anything considered "feminine.“ This leads to personal conflict, especially with his children and wives. (Chapter 1–3) ( 7) Fate vs. Free Will Okonkwo tries to control his destiny, but many events (like his banishment & the arrival of the colonizers) are beyond his control showing the t ension between destiny and choice . (Chapter 14–15) ( 24)