Things Fall Apart is a novel written by Chinua Achebe, which depicts the life of an Igbo community in Nigeria before the arrival of Europeans. The novel highlights the importance of family in Igbo culture and the impact of colonialism on their way of life. The family plays a crucial role in the novel, and several quotes emphasize the significance of family ties in the Igbo community.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
Things Fall Apart is a novel written by Chinua Achebe, which depicts the life of an Igbo community in Nigeria before the arrival of Europeans. The novel highlights the importance of family in Igbo culture and the impact of colonialism on their way of life. The family plays a crucial role in the novel, and several quotes emphasize the significance of family ties in the Igbo community.
The Importance of Family in Igbo Culture
The Igbo people believe in the concept of extended family, which includes not only immediate family members but also distant relatives. The family is considered the backbone of Igbo society, and every individual's identity is linked to their family lineage. Family members are expected to support each other, and the welfare of the family takes precedence over individual interests.
Family Quotes in Things Fall Apart
"A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving. They all have food in their own homes. When we gather together in the moonlit village ground, it is not because of the moon. Every man can see it in his own compound. We come together because it is good for kinsmen to do so." - This quote by Chinua Achebe highlights the importance of community and family gatherings in Igbo culture. It shows that people come together not only for practical reasons but also for the sense of community and belonging.
"The clan was like a lizard; if it lost its tail, it soon grew another." - This quote emphasizes the idea of the extended family. Even if a member of the family dies or leaves, the family remains united and continues to thrive.
"Okonkwo ruled his household with a heavy hand. His wives, especially the youngest, lived in perpetual fear of his fiery temper, and so did his little children." - This quote depicts the patriarchal nature of Igbo society and the importance of the father figure in the family. It also shows the power dynamics within the family and the fear that some members may feel towards the head of the household.
The Impact of Colonialism on Family Life
The arrival of Europeans in Nigeria had a significant impact on Igbo culture and family life. The introduction of Christianity and Western education challenged traditional values and customs, leading to a breakdown of the extended family system. The influence of colonialism and modernization led to the erosion of the family's role in society and the breakdown of traditional gender roles within the family.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of family in Igbo culture?
A: Family is considered the backbone of Igbo society, and every individual's identity is linked to their family lineage. Family members are expected to support each other, and the welfare of the family takes precedence over individual interests.
Q: How did the arrival of Europeans impact family life in Nigeria?
A: The introduction of Christianity and Western education challenged traditional values and customs, leading to a breakdown of the extended family system. The influence of colonialism and modernization led to the erosion of the family's role in society and the breakdown of traditional gender roles within the family.
Conclusion
The quotes in Things Fall Apart highlight the importance of family in Igbo culture and the impact of colonialism on family life. The novel emphasizes the need to preserve traditional values and customs while acknowledging the need for change and adaptation to new circumstances.
