What Drives A Man
What makes a successful man? This, in itself, is a culture bound
question because it can vary from culture to culture. However, in the
perception of Okonkwo, the main character in Chinua Achebe's novel, Things Fall
Apart, the measure of a man's success is based on two elements, material
acquisition and growth, and physical prowess. This is ironic for Okonkwo since
his people's typical idea of success seems to be constructed of a complex,
strong spiritual culture, seemingly able to deal in traditional ways with any
challenge in nature and human experience. (Ravenscroft 9) Although Okonkwo is
undoubtedly an important member of Umuofian society, he is not a typical
representative of that society. (Taiwo 115) It is this basic dichotomy between
Okonkwo and his own culture that directly lead to the tragic fall of Okonkwo,
and ultimate disgrace.
I feel that it is important to note at this time that Things Fall Apart
is a tragedy, and Okonkwo is a tragic hero.......
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Approximate Word Count: 1551
Approximate Pages: 6 (260 words per double-spaced page) |