Okonkwo's Belief In Things Fall Apart

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In Umuofia’s esoteric civilization, the people share a general and substantial belief in Gods and religion. Okonkwo and the rest of the Igbo respect the Gods and go to them for wisdom: “…and offered prayers to them on behalf of himself, his three wives and eight children.” (Achebe, 14). Okonkwo seeks guidance from the Gods so they can receive mirth for his obedience to them. Because he will do what his Gods want, his actions and thoughts are all based on his morals and values towards his deities. Okonkwo takes great pride and time in worshipping his Gods: “He worshipped them with great sacrifices of kola nut, food and palm-wine…” (14). Okonkwo is very obedient and giving to his lords since he wants great fortunes and protection for his family. …show more content…

Citizens sometimes perceived their Gods to be malevolent, and they also thought their deities could do anything to get what they wanted. Okonkwo had to decide to live in fear or live in respect towards his religion; therefore, this caused an imbalance of spiritual beliefs in Umuofia. Even though the society had strong religious beliefs, it tolerated the widespread use of violence. When Okonkwo beat his son Nwoye, the society did not intervene with his son’s discipline: “At any rate, that was how it looked to his father…” (13). Okonkwo’s freedom permits him to discipline and act freely since the society allowed violence. The allowance of religion and violence is out of fear for rebellions, uprisings, and also for a large man like Okonkwo. Nwoye’s discipline could have been allowed because of Okonkwo’s large size and grand strength as well. Okonkwo is given freedom and a chance to live freely and happily in the Igbo because the people all respect and even fear their Gods and other people in

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