Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe | Part 1, Chapter 7

Summary

In Chapter 7 of Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart,' three years have passed, and Akuma Funa has become a role model for Nuo Yi, who is growing into a tough young man under Okonkwo's watch. The chapter explores themes of masculinity and the complexities of familial relationships, highlighted by Okonkwo's pride in his son's toughness and his disdain for feminine qualities. The arrival of locusts symbolizes both delight and the impending darkness of European colonialism. The climax reveals Okonkwo's inner conflict as he participates in Akuma Funa's murder, driven by a fear of weakness, leading to feelings of betrayal and foreshadowing deeper changes ahead.

Takeaways

• 😀 Three years have passed in Okonkwo's household, where Akima Funa has become a significant figure for Nuo Yi.
• 😀 Nuo Yi seeks to prove his masculinity and often grumbles about chores assigned to him by women.
• 😀 Okonkwo believes that a male clan member must control women and children to be considered a man.
• 😀 The boys listen to Okonkwo's violent stories, while Mui prefers the moral tales from his mother.
• 😀 The arrival of locusts is both a rare delight and a metaphor for the dark impending colonial forces.
• 😀 The oracle instructs the clan to kill Akima Funa, and Okonkwo is cautioned not to intervene due to their bond.
• 😀 Nuo Yi is devastated by Akima Funa's fate, recalling traumatic memories associated with the evil forest.
• 😀 Okonkwo's actions during Akima Funa's murder reveal his deep-seated fear of being perceived as weak.
• 😀 The chapter explores the theme of masculinity and the emotional turmoil tied to societal expectations.
• 😀 The ending hints at a significant betrayal and change in Nuo Yi, foreshadowing future developments.

Q & A

What significant time has passed in Okonkwo's household by Chapter 7?

Three years have passed, and Ikemefuna has become like an older brother to Nwoye.

How does Okonkwo feel about Ikemefuna's influence on Nwoye?

Okonkwo is pleased with Ikemefuna's influence, believing it helps Nwoye grow into a tough young man capable of ruling his household.

What is Nwoye's attitude towards chores assigned to him?

Nwoye grumbles about being asked to do chores, reflecting a struggle against traditional gender roles.

What role does the arrival of locusts play in this chapter?

The locusts symbolize a duality; while they are seen as a delicacy, their dark arrival foreshadows the coming of European colonialism.

What does Okonkwo's reaction to Ikemefuna's death reveal about his character?

Okonkwo's participation in Ikemefuna's murder, despite his affection for the boy, reveals his deep fear of being perceived as weak.

How does Nwoye respond to the news of Ikemefuna's fate?

Nwoye is devastated by Ikemefuna's death, indicating his emotional bond with him and foreshadowing a rift between him and Okonkwo.

What does the phrase 'the shadow of the locusts' symbolize?

The shadow symbolizes the looming presence of colonialism, contrasting with the joy of the community when they gather to eat the locusts.

How does Achebe use storytelling in this chapter?

Achebe contrasts Okonkwo's violent stories with the moral stories preferred by Nwoye's mother, highlighting differing values of masculinity.

What internal conflict does Okonkwo face during the murder of Ikemefuna?

Okonkwo struggles between his affection for Ikemefuna and his fear of being seen as weak, leading him to commit the act despite his reservations.

How does this chapter set the stage for future events in the novel?

The chapter concludes with themes of betrayal and emotional conflict, foreshadowing Nwoye's growing distance from Okonkwo and future changes in the clan.