Why do things fall apart ?

 

Rick Politician

87345
1/18/02
History 152  Sect. 12:30
Things Fall Apart -- Paragraph #2 

 

In Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe draws a stark contrast between the life in Iboland for a native African before the arrival of the white men, and after.  A wealthy person and good leader in pre-colonial Iboland has two major characteristics.  First, this person obeys and respects tradition and the Gods.  They participate in and uphold all the traditional rituals and feasts of the tribe like the “umunna” and “The Feast of the New Yam.”  Second, a pre-colonial wealthy and good leader tries to continuously improve themselves and their place in life.  They strive to gain each of the four titles of the tribe.  Tribal members can attain these titles through a combination of achievements whether they are bravery in war, wrestling prowess, an admirable work ethic, a prosperous farm, many wives and children or even expertise as an orator.  As the white missionaries come to Iboland, they bring with them alternative ways of life.  Previously, a tribesman who did not adhere to the ways of the Iboland societies were shunned by the tribe and sometimes even banished into miserable solitude.  Christianity brings with it a freedom to live life with a more individual freedom since a man’s commitment to Jesus is the only requirement to salvation.  Tribesman can now question their traditions and the everyday things they do.  They will begin to decide for themselves what they believe is wealth and what makes a good leader.