Things Fall Apart IOP Emily Werner Block 1

Things Fall Apart IOP Emily Werner Block 1 -4

Thesis In the tragic novel, Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe illustrates theme that actions have consequences through the use of a simile, flashback, and symbol.

Question #6 How does Ikemefuna’s death impact Nwoye’s relationship with his father?

Quick Answer • Nwoye’s relationship with his father worsens after Ikemefuna’s death. • He is afraid of his father and they become even more distant than before.

(Page 63) (Page 149)

Connection 1 (Page 147)

Connection 2 (page 152)

Character Development • Nwoye: – afraid of his father – converts to Christianity – way to be himself • Okonkwo: – ungrateful for his son – worried about the rest of his family converting and him failing – selfish

Diction • Captivate - attract and hold the interest and attention of; charm. – “But there was a young lad who had been captivated” (page 147). – This quote is talking about when Nwoye converted to Christianity – Achebe uses this word to emphasize that Nwoye had found something better in the new religion; a way to escape his life and be who he wanted to be, and it seemed to charm him as well.

Simile (Page 61)

Flashback (Pages 61 and 62)

Symbol (Page 153)

Theme • Achebe uses these literary devices to develop theme that actions have consequences – Okonkwo is selfish and unthankful for his son Nwoye – Okonkwo’s actions cause Nwoye to feel like he doesn’t belong – Nwoye leaves home and joins the missionaries – Okonkwo becomes worried that the rest of his family will convert to Christianity and he will have failed

Author’s Purpose • Achebe includes this topic in his novel, Things Fall Apart, to illustrate that sometimes people will find something new to believe in or a way to escape when they don’t feel like they belong. • In Achebe’s life, he grew up around Christianity and it had a strong influence on his family, so that could be one reason why he includes the impact of Christianity on Nwoye’s life