Things Fall Apart Violence

Throughout literature there have been countless works written on the foundation of violence. While reading this novel it becomes evident to the audience that violent encounters are indeed necessary. Things Fall Apart is written by Chinua Achebe. The story takes place in the village of Umuofia during the 1890’s. “Umuofia was feared by all its neighbors” (Achebe 11). It includes a vivid depiction of the cultural struggle between the white British colonies and the native Nigerian people. Although, most are not cruel enough to commit the violent acts that Okonkwo partakes in, he himself does them out of rage from his father's cowardly actions . Okonkwo’s major acts of violence consist of: beating his wife, killing a boy, and committing suicide.
The story opens up with an act of abuse between husband and wife. “Okonkwo was provoked by unjustifiable anger by his youngest wife” (29). His youngest wife’s name is …show more content…
Ikemefuna is a young boy who is commissioned out of his own village because of a crime he did not commit. As soon as Ikemefuna arrives to Umuofia, he is immediately considered part of Okonkwo’s large family. He lives with Okonkwo for a total of three years until his untimely death. The wise words of “I want you to have nothing to do with it” (57), must not mean much to Okonkwo as he hears them. The Oracle of the Hills and the Caves make the decision to sacrifice Ikemefuna. Soon after the oracle is announced, Ikemefuna is taken out into the Evil Forest to be slaughtered. A man raises his machete and strikes Ikemefuna will all of his might. Ikemefuna cries out “My Father, they have killed me!” (61). Out of fear, Okonkwo strikes him again taking the poor boy’s life. Okonkwo ultimately does this out of fear of being thought of as weak. The reputation of men during this time must be set at a very high precedent if Okonkwo goes against his chi (personal god) so