Things Fall Apart Archetypes

Three prime examples of archetypes in this novel are trees, the python, and the number three.

A tree represents growth, and life- which is exactly how Achebe used it. “Behind them was a big ancient silk-cotton tree which was sacred. Spirits of good children lived in that tree waiting to be born” (Achebe 34). The women in Umuofia, when attempting to have children, would sit under this tree in hopes one of the spirits would be their child. Achebe is displaying the coming of change in certain people in Umuofia, as well as showing a resources for both men and women to use, to further represent the enormous amount of change the monomaniac culture is about to endure.

The python, representing rejuvenation and special knowledge as well as destruction

Achebe uses this number, as well as multiples of the number, in numerous occasions throughout the book. “Okonkwo always asked his wives’ relations, and since he now had three wives his guests would make a fairly big crowd” (Achebe 26). The use of three within Okonkwo’s life, and other males in this novel, shows the relevance and superiority he has over women while hinting at their system of beliefs. Achebe looks to show the significance of religion in this culture, as well as the strong male ruling.

Questions for Theme

Things Fall Apart is essentially about the ludicrous amount of dependability individuals have on their inseparable society, and the powerless chaos that appears without it.

Chinua Achebe is stating that in every differing society of the world, humans are, at the core, exactly the same in that we all depend upon and gain strength from the unity and similarity of our particular cultures. Without our undisturbed patterned groupings, our cultures become fragmented and ultimately end in annihilation. We as humans are only stable in the midst of societal harmony.

The five most profound quotes from Things Fall Apart are; "The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart" (Achebe