Had they not imposed their beliefs on the Ibo, Okonkwo would not have been provoked to murder.
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Okonkwo was a very stern and angry character anyway. Be sure to read the character analysis here:
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/things/
Then let us know what you think.
To analyze this statement, we need to understand the context and events that led to Okonkwo's actions in the novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe. Okonkwo is a central character in the novel, and his actions are shaped by various factors, including his personality, cultural beliefs, societal pressures, and historical events.
In the story, Okonkwo is a respected warrior and a prominent member of the Umuofia clan, which is part of the Ibo society in pre-colonial Nigeria. The arrival of European colonizers and missionaries brings significant changes to the Ibo culture and way of life. The Europeans impose their religious beliefs, economic systems, and governance structures, disrupting the existing order and challenging traditional roles and customs.
As an ardent supporter of Ibo traditions and customs, Okonkwo vehemently resists these external influences. He fears that the Ibo way of life is under a grave threat, which leads to a growing sense of frustration, anger, and a desire to protect his culture. This fear, combined with his motivated, ambitious nature, creates a volatile mix within Okonkwo.
One pivotal event that contributes to Okonkwo's actions is the killing of a messenger from the colonial administration. In an effort to assert their independence and resist the influence of the Europeans, Okonkwo and other members of the Ibo society carry out this act of rebellion. However, it ultimately leads to tragic consequences for Okonkwo, as his own people hesitate to support this violent act, causing Okonkwo to feel isolated and betrayed.
So, to address the statement you made: "Had they not imposed their beliefs on the Ibo, Okonkwo would not have been provoked to murder," it is important to note that Okonkwo's motivations for his actions were complex and multi-faceted. While the imposition of European beliefs and actions did play a role in provoking the Ibo people's resistance, it is essential to understand that Okonkwo's personal desires, insecurity, and fear of cultural extinction were significant factors that influenced his decision to murder.
Analyzing and understanding literary characters and their motivations requires a comprehensive examination of their experiences, beliefs, and the historical backdrop against which they act. By delving deeper into the narrative and the character of Okonkwo, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of his choices and actions.