Things Fall Apart Women Analysis

Discerning the role of women in Things Fall Apart by author Chinua Achebe requires an attentive and open-minded reading of the novel. At first, the women in the plot may seem to be oppressed and insignificant- and this characterization rings true to some extent. Women are often times viewed as property, laborers, and producers of children within the story. However, this characterization of Igbo women reveals itself to be limiting once the reader is able to detect the diverse roles of women throughout the novel. Despite the fact that women in Umuofian society fail to receive the same amount of respect as women in our modern day society, in certain circumstances throughout the novel they hold tremendous power. Achebe provides great insight towards women’s role in the clan, and the complexity of their place in Igbo society shines brightly through his writing. The home and family both hold an important place in Umuofian society. A woman’s duty in the home is to care for the children, clean around the huts, and provide meals for both her husband and children- among various other domestic duties. Although this viewpoint of women may feel disheartening, if you read deeper …show more content…
On the surface of the story, it seems that women are simply a servant in a man’s world- expected to cook, clean, and obey the orders of all men. However, if you allow yourself to read the book with an open mind and acceptance of a different culture, it is clear that women hold a unique role in their society. Achebe demonstrates this distinct viewpoint throughout the entirety of the novel, allowing the reader to observe women holding responsibility in both the household, religious positions, and even the most powerful deity. Overall, it is clear that women played a significant role in the structure of Igbo society, providing qualities that helped ensure the success of the