Compare And Contrast Okonkwo And Things Fall Apart

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Both protagonists, Oedipus of “Oedipus the King” written by Sophocles and Okonkwo from “Things Fall Apart” written by Chinua Achebe, possess tragic flaw that leads to their eventual downfall. Oedipus and Okonkwo are portrayed to be tragic heroes of their respected story. Tragic hero is someone who falls of power not necessarily because he is a “bad” or evil person, but he is destined to his downfall. In both stories, fate and free was a major theme that decided both characters fortune. Both characters, Oedipus’ and Okonkwo’s individual actions and their individual character traits led them closer to their downfall. However, narrow-mindedness leaves them both at fault for their self-destruction. Both Oedipus and Okonkwo’s fate and actions through …show more content…

Okonkwo remains stubborn even when Ezeudu tells him, “That boy calls you father. Do not bear a hand in his death” (Achebe, 57). In the event that Okonkwo was really concerned with the moral value of not taking part in Ikemefuna’s death, then he would have attended the funeral. But, Okonkwo is more concerned about being more powerful than leaders of the other tribes. Oedipus shows similar behavior when he tells Teiresias “… it has no strength for you because you are blind in mind and ears as well as in your eyes” (Sophocles, 428 – 430). Oedipus doesn’t respect oracle’s information that is given to him and this shows that not only is he arrogant, but this addresses Oedipus’ hubris and ignorant behavior as he denies his fate. Both Oedipus and Okonkwo, are arrogant and refuse to be told to that they are wrong about anything and these tragic flaw in each character contributes to their responsibility in their demise. But, Oedipus always brings up his personal achievements when he became the leader of Thebes to show his pride. Meanwhile, Okonkwo relives his glory days when he defeated Amalinze, also known as the Giant cat to influence himself to show courage, strength, and that he is a powerful leader. Both these character are more same then different as both character show arrogance, pride, and desire to help, but …show more content…

Both characters fate and free will along with their ability to have intolerant-mind, played a major role in deciding their individual

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