Major Themes in Things Fall Apart By Chinua Achebe

The novel Things Fall Apart explores the tragic story of a hero within the rich and cultured society of the Igbo tribes. Chinua Achebe delves into various aspects of the Igbo culture prior to the arrival of white missionaries, highlighting the consequences that ensue when these norms clash. As the story progresses, readers witness events that contribute to the disintegration of Igbo society. You May Like These: Major Characters in Things Fall Apart Okonkwo: A Tragic Hero Chapter-wise Summary of Things Fall Apart Postcolonial Echoes in Things Fall Apart Things Fall Apart Themes 1. Theme of Gender and Muscularity One of the central themes in the novel is the significance and superiority attributed to the male gender within Igbo culture. The importance of muscularity is emphasized, as men who lack physical strength are labeled "agbala," which translates to "woman." This fear of being perceived as weak haunts Okonkwo, as he associates masculinity with aggression and believes t…