Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart portrays the tragic story of Okonkwo, a strong-willed warrior who is unwilling to adapt to the changing social conditions that are the result of colonialism. White Christian missionaries enter Umuofia and their influence rapidly changes the face of the region. Tribal elders initially treat Christian missionaries derisively, but soon see the error in their ways:
“And even in the matter of religion there was a growing feeling that there might be something in it after all, something vaguely akin to method in the overwhelming madness” (178).
Along with Christianity, white settlers also bring in European models of government into Umuofia. The District Commissioner quickly alters the judicial system of the area. The European judicial system disregards the customs of the natives, and imposes an arbitrary set of rules on the tribes of the area. Okonkwo grows increasingly frustrated at these elements of the community, and this drives him to suicide. Obierika blames the District Commissioner, and white settlers in general, for Okonkwo’s death
“That man was one of the greatest men in Umuofia. You drove him to kill himself, and now he will be buried like a dog” (208).
Thus, the negative elements of colonialism are pervasive and alter the customs and traditions of Umuofia.
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