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Essay / Okonkwo's tone in "Things Fall Apart"
Table of ContentsHard and domineering toneFear of failure and weaknessResistance to changeConclusionThe novel "Things Fall Apart" tells the story of Okonkwo, a respected leader of Igbo society struggling to adapt to the changes brought by colonialism. Throughout the novel, Okonkwo's tone and language reflect his internal struggles, his cultural beliefs, and ultimately his tragic downfall. This essay will examine Okonkwo's tone as a reflection of his character, beliefs, and interactions with others in the novel. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essay Harsh and Dominant Tone Okonkwo's tone in the novel is often harsh and domineering, reflecting his desire to assert his masculinity and to defend traditional Igbo values. He is known for his short temper and tendency to resort to violence to maintain control over his family and community. For example, when Okonkwo's son Nwoye becomes interested in Christian missionaries, Okonkwo's tone is filled with anger and disappointment. He views Nwoye's actions as a betrayal of their cultural heritage and reacts with hostility, using harsh language and corporal punishment to try to force Nwoye to fall into line. Additionally, Okonkwo's tone towards his wives and children is often harsh and demanding, reflecting his belief in the importance of discipline and obedience within the family unit. He expects absolute loyalty and respect from his family members, and his tone expresses his frustration and anger when they do not meet his expectations. This harsh tone creates tension and conflict within the family, leading to a breakdown in communication and understanding between Okonkwo and his loved ones. Fear of Failure and Weakness Despite his tough exterior, Okonkwo's tone also reveals a deep fear of failure and weakness. He is haunted by the memory of his father, Unoka, considered a lazy and irresponsible man in the eyes of the community. Okonkwo's tone is often filled with a sense of insecurity and vulnerability, as he constantly worries about living up to his society's expectations and avoiding the same fate as his father. This fear of weakness and failure causes Okonkwo to overcompensate by adopting a tone of aggression and dominance in his interactions with others. He believes that showing any sign of vulnerability or emotion is a sign of weakness, and so he hides his true feelings behind a facade of strength and control. However, this facade eventually crumbles as Okonkwo's tone betrays his inner turmoil and self-doubt, leading to his tragic downfall. Resistance to Change Okonkwo's tone also reflects his struggle to navigate the changing world around him as colonialism begins to encroach on his traditional way of life. . As the influence of British missionaries grew within the Igbo community, Okonkwo's tone became increasingly desperate and defiant. He views the colonizers as a threat to his culture and values, and his tone is filled with anger and resistance towards their presence. Okonkwo's stubborn refusal to adapt to changing circumstances ultimately leads to his downfall, as his tone becomes increasingly isolated and alienated from those around him. His inability to see beyond his own pride and beliefs blinds him to the changing realities of the world, and his tone reflects the tragic consequences of his stubbornness and inflexibility. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized paper now from our expert writers.Get a,.