Part I
Summary of Chapter 1
In the first chapter, we are introduced to Okonkwo, a renowned Igbo villager who enjoys a widespread reputation across not only his own community but also the surrounding nine villages. His fame is built upon his impressive personal achievements and unwavering strength, particularly highlighted by his triumph over Amilinze, a highly skilled wrestler, during a momentous cat match witnessed by a staggering crowd of over 10,000 spectators.
However, beneath Okonkwo's outward success and esteemed status, lies a persistent haunting presence that manifests itself in the form of his father. Unlike the ghostly apparition of Hamlet's father, this haunting is not literal, yet Okonkwo perceives his father's presence everywhere he goes.
Okonkwo's father, Unoka, was burdened with debts that plagued the entire town, spending his days engrossed in playing the flute and indulging in palm wine. Consequently, Okonkwo grows up fully aware of his father's reputation as a failure, and the profound anguish resulting from this societal judgment lingers with him throughout his life. Achebe eloquently captures the essence of Okonkwo's existence, describing it as one dominated by the ever-present fear of failure and weakness.
Indeed, this fear possesses a potency that transcends even the trepidation instilled by capricious gods, supernatural forces, and the malevolence that may lurk within the world. It is this fear that propels Okonkwo on a relentless pursuit from the lowly occupation of a sharecropper towards positions of power, social standing, and affluence. Regrettably, this same fear also corrodes his character, rendering him susceptible to bouts of aggression and animosity.
On several occasions, Okonkwo launches himself onto others, his impulsiveness and wrath driving him to commit three unforgivable transgressions, for which he becomes condemned to a grueling seven-year exile as retribution.
Summary of Chapter 2
Chapter 2 delves deeper into Okonkwo's world, reminiscent of the ancient Greek world of Oedipus, where every flaw is met with swift punishment. The night described is shrouded in darkness, devoid of moonlight, and even the bravest individuals among the Igbo community find the darkness itself a source of terror. The woodland, especially during the nocturnal hours, becomes an eerie and unsettling place.
In this unsettling atmosphere, Okonkwo senses the impending possibility of a conflict. As a renowned fighter, he perceives war as an opportunity to garner additional respect and establish his dominance. However, to Okonkwo's surprise, the potential clash is resolved peacefully, defying his expectations. Instead, he finds himself accepting a young boy from a neighboring tribe, named Ikemefuna.
Ikemefuna is entrusted to the care of Nwoye's mother, having been brought home by Okonkwo. The young boy experiences feelings of homesickness and confusion, as he struggles to comprehend why he has been separated from his own family. Yet, amidst these emotions, Ikemefuna forms a bond with Nwoye and begins to perceive the world through fresh eyes, exposing him to a newfound sense of enlightenment.
Summary of Chapter 3
In Chapter 3, we are provided with further insights into Okonkwo's past, highlighting the stark contrast between his upbringing and that of his friends. Unlike his companions, Okonkwo is born into poverty and inherits nothing from his father, Unoka, who was burdened by overwhelming debts. Unoka, seeking answers for his consistently poor harvests, visits the tribe's revered oracle, Agbala, as per the popular myth circulating in Okonkwo's hometown.
The narrative momentarily shifts back in time to portray Unoka's interactions with the oracle during Okonkwo's formative years. These flashbacks deepen our understanding of Okonkwo's background, characterized by his impoverished birth and the absence of any inheritance from his debt-ridden father. Unoka's life takes a tragic turn as he succumbs to a severe stomach ailment, deemed an abomination to the earth, which forces him to leave his home. He meets his demise beneath an evil tree in the forest.
During this period, Okonkwo encounters a man named Nawakibie, who plays a crucial role in helping him amass wealth and establish his reputation. Okonkwo's arduous efforts are driven not solely by a desire to build his own future but also by the burden of his late father's debts, which fuels his anger and determination.
Amidst a year marked by tragedy, with a prolonged drought decimating a significant portion of the yam harvest and incessant floods causing the remaining crops to rot, Okonkwo perseveres due to his unwavering resolve. However, his inflexible will is accompanied by a reckless disregard for the sacred Week of Peace. Okonkwo violates this sacred period, first by accidentally shooting at his wife, narrowly missing her but leaving a mark of his terrible aim.
Summary of Chapter 4
In Chapter 4, we witness Ikemefuna's apprehension upon moving into Okonkwo's household, causing him to refuse food until he is returned to his own home. However, Okonkwo, unwilling to tolerate Ikemefuna's hunger strike, resorts to wielding a threatening club, compelling the young boy to finish his supper.
During this period, Okonkwo commits his first significant mistake. In violation of the sacred Week of Peace, a period in which all forms of violence are strictly prohibited to honor the Earth goddess and ensure a prosperous harvest, he unleashes a ferocious beating upon one of his wives.
Summary of Chapter 5
Chapter 5 centers around Okonkwo's apprehension about the upcoming holiday preceding the three days of harvest, during which he is expected to spend time with his three wives and their extended families—an approach vastly different from that of his own father, who was consumed by work. Throughout the entire day, Okonkwo is plagued by a sense of unease, culminating in a distressing incident involving his second wife, Ekwefi.
In a fit of rage, Okonkwo subjects Ekwefi to physical violence and even attempts to shoot her, baselessly accusing her of destroying a banana tree—a claim that lacks any evidence or basis in reality. As the tension escalates, those around him grow increasingly fearful and find the courage to stand up against Okonkwo's actions, protesting his unjust treatment.
The chapter concludes with the beating of drums and a poignant scene where three daughters from each of Okonkwo's wives bring their respective mother's food. Notably, Ezinma, the daughter of his second wife, holds a special place in Okonkwo's heart, though he does not openly display his affection or soft spot for her.
Summary of Chapter 6
Chapter 6 revolves around a wrestling match where Obierika's son, Maduka, astounds the spectators by swiftly defeating his opponent, leaving the audience in awe. During this event, Chielo, a priestess and a close confidante of Ezinma, engages in a conversation with Ekwefi, seeking to uncover a disturbance that has affected Ezinma's life since childhood.
The chapter concludes with a praise song dedicated to Okafor, the victorious wrestler who triumphed over Ikezue. This victory, although not supported by the entire community, highlights the inherent fragility of the community's unity and cohesion.
Summary of Chapter 7
Chapter 7 unveils Okonkwo's grave transgression: the killing of a young boy with his machete. The weight of this act is intensified by the fact that the boy is none other than Ikemefuna, who had been living in Okonkwo's compound for three years, having been given to the clan as a sacrifice by a neighboring village to avert war.
During his time in Okonkwo's household, Ikemefuna had formed a close bond with Okonkwo's son, further complicating the emotional impact of the tragic event.
Summary of Chapter 8
In Chapter 8, the aftermath of Ikemefuna's sacrifice weighs heavily on Okonkwo. He succumbs to a state of despair, turning to excessive wine-drinking and abstaining from food for two days. Seeking solace, he calls for a boy to accompany him, but his own son, Nwoye, driven by fear, impulsively kills his closest friend. Gazing at his ten-year-old daughter, Ezinma, Okonkwo laments her gender, wishing she were a boy.
Unable to escape his troubling thoughts, Okonkwo seeks the company of his friend, Obierika, and confides in him. Obierika attentively listens as Okonkwo expresses his concerns about Nwoye and his dissatisfaction with his children, noting that they do not resemble him. Obierika offers a rational perspective, reminding Okonkwo that his children are still young. The conversation then turns to the topic of Ikemefuna's murder, with Obierika questioning why Okonkwo participated in the killing of his own son.
News reaches them of the passing of some elderly members of the clan. However, as time passes, Okonkwo begins to feel a sense of relief, realizing that his primary struggle stems from having an unoccupied mind. Following the ceremony of Obierika's daughter's marriage price, the two friends sit together and share laughter as they discuss the tales they have heard of the mysterious white men, who are yet to be encountered but forebode potential destruction for their tribes.
Summary of Chapter 9
Chapter 9 opens with Ekwefi urgently banging on Okonkwo's door in a state of panic, shouting that their daughter, Ezinma, is gravely ill. As the only person who dares to knock on Okonkwo's door in such a manner, her distress is palpable. Without waiting for further explanation, Okonkwo swiftly rushes towards Ekwefi's hut, declaring that Ezinma is suffering from a fever.
During this episode, we gain insight into Ekwefi's past, as we learn that she has tragically lost nine children before Ezinma's birth. Consequently, Ezinma holds a central place in her mother's life, serving as a beacon of hope and cherished affection. Although Ezinma has previously battled with this illness, believed to have been adequately treated, Okonkwo once again prepares the medicine, administering it to Ezinma, who promptly falls into a deep sleep.
Summary of Chapter 10
Chapter 10 portrays a crowd gathered for a public trial, with nine esteemed clan members serving as judges. These individuals hold significant power and represent the ancestral spirits in their role as mass judges.
The trial centers around a dispute between a husband and his wife. The husband is accused of subjecting his wife to severe beatings, with one incident nearly resulting in her death and another causing her to miscarry. Throughout their nine-year marriage, he has consistently mistreated her, subjecting her to regular beatings. The issue brought before the clan revolves around the matter of the bride price, and the wife's family has presented the case to seek resolution.
Upon hearing the case, the clan members decree that the husband must offer wine to his in-laws as a gesture of apology and seek forgiveness from his wife for his abusive actions.
Summary of Chapter 11
In Chapter 11, Ekwefi recounts the story of the tortoise to her daughter, Ezinma. The tortoise, known for its cunning, would cunningly kill birds to feast on the best portions, leaving only scraps for others. The birds eventually seek revenge, causing the tortoise's shell to break. A skilled medicine man reconstructs the tortoise's shell, resulting in its rough texture instead of a smooth one.
Meanwhile, during the night, a mysterious child's voice pierces the air, and Chielo, a priestess, arrives at Okonkwo's compound to fetch Ezinma, as the Oracle Abala wishes to see the young girl. Okonkwo implores Chielo to return at a later time, asserting that his daughter is currently asleep. Ekwefi, desiring to accompany her daughter, receives contrary instructions from the Oracle, who insists that Ezinma must go alone.
When Chielo departs with Ezinma, Ekwefi informs her husband that she will follow them regardless of the consequences. Thus, she spends the entire night trailing behind Chielo through all nine villages. Chielo eventually takes Ezinma into the Oracle's cave, while Ekwefi waits outside. Okonkwo unexpectedly appears and joins Ekwefi, startling her. They sit together, and Ekwefi appreciates Okonkwo's presence, reflecting on their early days in his hut. She shares the story of the hasty and greedy tortoise with her husband.
Chielo assumes the role of the Oracle's priestess, commanding her speech and demeanor, and Ekwefi reflects on their close friendship, noting the contrast in their interactions during the wrestling match. On the other hand, Okonkwo's true character is revealed as he convinces Chielo not to take their daughter and then urges Ekwefi to rest. Ekwefi's determination and love for her daughter are also evident as she defies societal norms and even the gods to protect her child.
Summary of Chapter 12
In Chapter 12, Chielo returns Ezinma to Okonkwo's compound during the night. The following morning, Okonkwo, exhausted from a sleepless night, displays his typical grumpy demeanor. He had been in a state of anxiety and had made numerous trips to the cave before finally finding Ekwefi waiting there. Despite Okonkwo's restless state, the villagers are in a festive mood as they prepare for the betrothal ceremony of Obierika's daughter.
Obierika has purchased a large goat as a gift for his in-laws, and the community comes together to make preparations and cook food for the celebratory event. The daughter's in-laws arrive bearing a significant amount of wine, nearly 50 pots in total.
This chapter highlights Okonkwo's deep care and concern for his family, as evidenced by his all-night vigil and grave worry for Ezinma's well-being. Additionally, the communal spirit of the village is showcased through the preparations and execution of the betrothal ceremony, demonstrating how the community functions as one cohesive and cooperative family.
Part II
Summary of Chapter 13
Chapter 13 begins with the news of Ezeudu's death, a respected elder and warrior who had warned Okonkwo against participating in the execution of Ikemefuna. Okonkwo feels a cold shiver down his spine as he remembers the tragic death of Ikemefuna. Ezeudu held a significant position in the village, having obtained three of the clan's four titles, and his funeral is grand in scale.
The village is filled with the sounds of drums, the brandishing of machetes, and the firing of guns and cannons. Okonkwo joins the men in shooting their guns, but unexpectedly, his own weapon explodes, sending shrapnel into the heart of Ezeudu's 16-year-old son. As a result of this tragic accident, Okonkwo is exiled, not for beating his wife or killing Ikemefuna, but for unintentionally causing the death of a fellow clan member during a funeral. His gun exploding during such a solemn event is seen as an offense to the earth goddess, leading to his exile.
Okonkwo and his family depart from the village, and their home complex is set ablaze as per tradition. Obierika, Okonkwo's best friend, ponders the injustice of Okonkwo suffering so greatly for a sin committed inadvertently. However, the community's belief is reflected in the proverb that states if one finger brings oil, it stains the others. Thus, Okonkwo's grave transgression necessitates his exile, as failure to do so could result in the entire community paying the price for his actions. This mindset stems from the community's fear of being destroyed and their commitment to preserving their collective unity and ancestral traditions.
At the conclusion of this chapter, it is decided that the community will not follow Okonkwo in his exile, emphasizing their dedication to maintaining unity and avoiding the potential repercussions that could arise from Okonkwo's actions. Part one of "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe concludes with Okonkwo's exile from his town.
Summary of Chapter 14
In Chapter 14, Okonkwo is warmly received by his maternal uncle, Uchendo, and his children. They offer him land, assist in building a compound, and provide him with seeds to plant his farm. Starting anew requires hard work, a trait that Okonkwo has always been willing to embody.
However, the enthusiasm that once fueled Okonkwo's ambitions of becoming a prominent figure in the clan has waned. The goal that once seemed attainable now feels distant and unattainable. Uchendo, the patriarch of the family, presides over a ceremony where one of his sons is marrying a new wife. After the festivities, Uchendo gathers everyone together and imparts wisdom to Okonkwo, reminding him that others have also experienced suffering. Uchendo himself has endured significant loss, having buried five wives and 22 children. His advice to Okonkwo is to accept his exile and make the best of the situation.
Summary of Chapter 15
In Chapter 15, Obierika visits Okonkwo during his period of exile, and the two men engage in a conversation with Uchendo. Uchendo reflects on how in his generation, men would have friends in distant clans, while the current generation seems more inclined to stay at home and fear their neighbors. Obierika shares the unsettling news that a neighboring village has been decimated due to the arrival of white men.
Obierika explains that the British Empire and the missionaries are connected, with both representing different branches of the same tree. This revelation hints at the impending influence and impact of the white men on the indigenous communities. The chapter concludes with the news that white men have arrived, confirming the Oracle's prophecy that more will follow. The Oracle metaphorically refers to the white men as locusts, emphasizing the potential devastation they may bring to the traditional way of life.
Summary of Chapter 16
In Chapter 16, two years have passed, and Obierika returns to Mbanta with news of the arrival of missionaries in Umofia. They have established a church and have successfully converted some villagers to Christianity. The elders in Mbanta are displeased with this development but believe that the new religion will not endure. However, one young person is genuinely captivated by the missionaries: Okonkwo's first son, Nwoye. Okonkwo senses his son slipping away and, in a fit of anger and desperation, attempts to control him through force and intimidation. However, this only pushes Nwoye further towards the missionaries, and he ultimately joins them permanently.
Okonkwo interprets this incident as a reflection of his son's weakness rather than his own harshness. Sitting in front of a fire, he reflects on his son's departure, remembering that he was once known as "the roaring Flame." He views himself as the fiery force while considering his son as cold and impotent ash.
The initial converts to Christianity are outcasts from society, individuals who are marginalized and prohibited from cutting their hair. This shift towards Christianity and the arrival of the British Empire foreshadow radical changes in Igbo society. As the chapter concludes, Okonkwo's world begins to crumble as the influence of the missionaries and the British Empire takes hold.
Summary of Chapter 17
In Chapter 17, the missionaries continue their preaching in the marketplace of Mbanta, requesting land from the villagers. Surprisingly, the elders offer them the evil forest, a place believed to be filled with malevolent forces. The villagers expect the missionaries to decline the offer and face failure as they believe the forest will bring harm upon them. However, the missionaries accept the land and proceed to build their church.
As time passes, the villagers eagerly await the retribution of their gods and ancestors against the missionaries. They hope that the missionaries will perish in the forest, as they believe their gods will protect them. However, the expected revenge does not come, and some villagers are moved by this unexpected outcome. Witnessing the missionaries' resilience and survival, some individuals in the village start to convert to Christianity.
Summary of Chapter 18
In Chapter 18, the church faces a challenge when two of the village outcasts attend the church service, leading to protests from the congregation. The reason for the uproar is that one of the converts had killed a Python, which is a revered animal in Mbanta and considered a symbol of their forefathers. The leaders of Mbanta gather to discuss how to handle this situation.
Okonkwo, fueled by his disdain for the missionaries, wants to forcibly drive them out of the village for this offense. However, the village leaders decide that the matter should be left between the Christian who killed the Python and the Egwugwu, the traditional gods of the community. Okonkwo criticizes this decision, deeming it cowardly and viewing the clan of Mbanta as weak and feminine compared to his fatherland of Umuofia. He passionately argues that if someone were to enter his own hut and defecate on the floor, he wouldn't turn a blind eye and leave it between that person and the gods, but instead would take immediate action.
When the man who killed the Python falls ill and dies, the leaders interpret it as a sign that the gods are capable of fighting their own battles. As a result, they decide not to ostracize the Christian convert. This chapter highlights the willingness of the Christians to accept individuals from all levels of society, even the outcasts, and provide them with the opportunity to be seen as equals.
Summary of Chapter 19
In Chapter 19, seven years have passed since Okonkwo's exile in Mbanta, and he has achieved prosperity during this time. However, he yearns to return home and regrets his exile every day. In his eagerness to prepare for his eventual return, Okonkwo sends money to Obierika, requesting the construction of huts in his former compound so that his family will have a place to go when they return.
As the rainy season comes to a close, a beautiful rainbow, known as the serpent of the sky, appears. Inspired by this sight, Okonkwo gathers his three wives and instructs them to prepare a grand feast. The feast serves as a way for Okonkwo to express gratitude to his mother's relatives and to showcase his success and prosperity during his time in Mbanta.
This chapter underscores Okonkwo's steadfast commitment to adhering to tradition and meeting societal expectations. He views the feast as both a social obligation and an opportunity to demonstrate his progress and achievements during his exile in Mbanta.
Summary of Chapter 19
In Chapter 19, seven years have passed since Okonkwo's exile in Mbanta, and he has achieved prosperity during this time. However, he yearns to return home and regrets his exile every day. In his eagerness to prepare for his eventual return, Okonkwo sends money to Obierika, requesting the construction of huts in his former compound so that his family will have a place to go when they return.
As the rainy season comes to a close, a beautiful rainbow, known as the serpent of the sky, appears. Inspired by this sight, Okonkwo gathers his three wives and instructs them to prepare a grand feast. The feast serves as a way for Okonkwo to express gratitude to his mother's relatives and to showcase his success and prosperity during his time in Mbanta.
This chapter underscores Okonkwo's steadfast commitment to adhering to tradition and meeting societal expectations. He views the feast as both a social obligation and an opportunity to demonstrate his progress and achievements during his exile in Mbanta.
Part III
Summary of Chapter 20
In Chapter 20, after seven years of exile, Okonkwo is finally allowed to return to Umuofia, and he eagerly anticipates reclaiming what he has lost during his absence. He plans to build a grand compound, take two new wives, and secure prestigious titles for his sons. Okonkwo seeks to display his wealth and status by integrating his family into the elite circles of the clan society.
Okonkwo has also reconciled with his son Nwoye, whom he previously disowned. However, he now holds Nwoye in contempt, referring to him derogatorily as a woman, and intends to raise his other five sons to be strong and masculine. He is also concerned about finding a suitable husband for his beloved daughter, Ezinma, with whom he shares a strong bond. Ezinma has blossomed into a beautiful young woman who understands her father's desires and carries out his wishes, even persuading her half-sister, over whom she holds influence, to postpone marriage until their return to Umuofia.
Upon returning to his homeland, Okonkwo is confronted with significant changes. The church has expanded and now includes high-ranking and respected individuals who have abandoned traditional clan practices. There is also a court system where an English district commissioner presides over legal cases. The court messengers, recruited from the local men, exhibit arrogance and mistreat prisoners who have offended the white men and their laws.
The opening of Part Three of the novel exposes the devastating impact of the white men and their erosion of traditional justice, religion, and community practices. Obierika remarks that Igbo society has disintegrated because the clan can no longer function as a united entity. The white men have dismantled the foundations that once held the clan together, although Okonkwo is slow to fully comprehend the gravity of the situation, unlike his perceptive friend Obierika.
Summary of Chapter 21
In Chapter 21, many clans, including Umuofia, begin to appreciate some of the changes brought by the white men, such as the introduction of a trading store and the availability of money. Mr. Brown, a white missionary, stands out for his patience and gentle approach to spreading his faith. He develops friendships with the clansmen, including the leader Hakuna, and engages in peaceful and intellectual discussions about religion with them.
Over time, the people of Umuofia come to accept the changes brought by the white men, including the presence of a hospital, school, and a new religious belief. They start to appreciate the benefits these changes bring to their community. However, Okonkwo becomes increasingly disconnected from this new reality. His resentment towards the white men grows, and he eventually drives away Mr. Brown, believing that he has returned home at the wrong time when his sons cannot participate in the traditional Egwugwu culture. In contrast, Okonkwo's son, Nwoye, has embraced the new society and is thriving within it.
Summary of Chapter 22
In Chapter 22, Mr. Brown departs from the village, leaving behind a very different successor, Mr. Smith. Unlike Mr. Brown, Mr. Smith is strict and holds a rigid black-and-white perspective. He considers anything associated with the traditional beliefs of the clan as evil. For him, strict adherence to the Christian faith is the only acceptable path. This creates a significant conflict between the church and the clan members who still hold onto their traditional practices.
Tensions escalate when Mr. Smith commits a grave offense by publicly unmasking an Igbo leader. This action throws Umuofia into confusion, leading to the destruction of the leader's compound. Smith and his followers hide inside the church, but they eventually confront the angry crowd outside. While the villagers show restraint out of respect for Mr. Brown, they vent their anger by destroying the shrine. Smith orders his followers to leave, but they refuse, and the church is ultimately smashed.
Mr. Smith adopts a fire-and-brimstone approach to his religion, making his intentions clear. He demands complete obedience from the converts and insists on the repudiation of all ties to the old religion. Smith views the world as a battleground, foreshadowing future conflicts. One of the converts, referred to as the disciple of Enoch, is ready for a battle, believing that confrontation is the only way to address the situation.
Language becomes a significant barrier to coexistence and understanding. The interpreter fails to grasp the dialect of the spokesperson for the mob, making effective communication impossible. Additionally, the interpreter also alters the meaning of Smith's reply. These language barriers create a deadlock and make violent conflict seem inevitable, blocking the possibility of peaceful coexistence.
Summary of Chapter 23
In Chapter 23, Okonkwo experiences a rare moment of happiness and rejuvenation as he believes that the clan has reclaimed its old ways, reminiscent of a time when warriors were respected. He successfully convinces the men of Umuofia to arm themselves in preparation for potential conflicts. However, three days later, Okonkwo and five others are summoned to the district commissioner's office by messengers. They comply with the summons, bringing machetes but not guns, as they consider it impolite to do so.
Upon arriving at the commissioner's office, one of the members of Umuofia's delegation begins to explain the reasons behind the destruction of the church. However, the district commissioner interrupts and calls for his men to hear the grievances. A brief scuffle ensues, too short for a machete to be drawn. The commissioner's men quickly handcuff Okonkwo and the others. The clansmen are then lectured about their treatment of the missionaries, and a fine is imposed on them.
Contrary to the commissioner's instructions for the court messengers to treat the prisoners with respect, they instead forcibly shave their heads, beat them, and withhold food and water. This treatment fuels Okonkwo's hatred, and the court messengers return to Umuofia to inform the villagers about what transpired.
In response, the men of Umuofia decide to pay the fine imposed on them as a way to appease the white men. Okonkwo, who thrives on action, authority, and power, initially finds contentment in the destruction of the church and the respect his family shows him. However, the contrast between the meeting with the district commissioner and the war council in Chapter Two highlights the shift in power dynamics. The rules have changed, and the white men do not consider the Igbo people as equals. Okonkwo and others are ill-prepared for this new reality.
Summary of Chapter 24
In Chapter 24, Okonkwo and the other men are released from custody after the payment of their fine. However, there is a noticeable shift in their treatment upon their return to the village. Clan members avoid them and refuse to greet them. Okonkwo's male relatives and friends visit him in his hut, but there is a palpable silence except for Obierika. The village crier announces a meeting for the following day, which increases Okonkwo's anticipation and mixed feelings of bitterness and excitement.
During the meeting, a sense of solidarity is evident as people from all corners of the nine villages gather. However, Okonkwo is infuriated at the thought of anyone speaking against going to war. One of the released prisoners addresses the crowd, emphasizing the danger they are all in and the need to fight against the British, even if it means shedding the blood of their own clansmen. The speaker acknowledges that this conflict between brothers is unprecedented, but believes it is necessary to confront the white men.
Suddenly, the meeting is interrupted by a court messenger sent to disperse the crowd. In a fit of rage, Okonkwo beheads the messenger in charge, but he finds himself alone in his violent action as the villagers allow the other messengers to escape. It becomes clear to Okonkwo that there will be no war, and he returns to his tent in the village surrounded by people, yet completely isolated.
Okonkwo's whipped back makes an impression on the villagers, and they may suspect that he has lost his aggressive masculinity. However, their fear seems to stem more from the potential for further violence. The villagers have come to realize that they cannot win a war against the white men, and Okonkwo, in his final act, threatens to bring even greater violence upon the clan. He becomes a tragic figure caught between the traditions of Igbo culture and the changes imposed by European colonialism.
Summary of Chapter 25
In Chapter 25, the district commissioner requests to see Okonkwo, but Obierika claims not to know his whereabouts. The commissioner threatens to arrest them if they don't produce Okonkwo. In response, Obierika asks for their assistance, which confuses the commissioner. He leads them to a tree where Okonkwo has hanged himself, and he requests that they take the body down.
Okonkwo's act of suicide is considered evil, and Obierika explains that he cannot touch the body. It is believed that only strangers, who are not bound by the same customs, can handle the impure act. The tragic outcome of Okonkwo's life is symbolic of the downfall of all his efforts to support his family, village, and friends. In the end, nobody dares to touch him, leaving him abandoned and unattended.