Although Ikemefuna wasn’t present in the entire novel, he played a crucial part both in other characters’ developments, but also to establish a setting and theme. He was first introduced to the readers as a sacrifice from a neighboring clan. He was then put under Okonkwo’s care, where he stayed for about three years. In this passing time, he became a son to Okonkwo, and a great influence to Nwoye, his son. Because of this, the three males became very close. After those years passed, however, the clan’s elders decided Ikemefuna was a bad omen and said he had to be killed. Afraid of seeming weak, Okonkwo killed the boy even though he was specifically instructed not to. This develops Okonkwo’s strongest character trait-- pride-- and Nwoye’s relative
