After completing the novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, my opinion of Okonkwo’s heroic traits has not changed. Today, there are certain “requirements” (especially in movies and novels) that a character has in order for him/her to be regarded as a hero. The character must either have superpowers that they can use to save his community, or he must have a kind and brave heart that gives him courage to face his fears, miraculously solve his conflict, and save his friends. Despite how he not only does not have superpowers but is also often depicted as a heartless man in the novel, I believe that he is still a true hero in the Igbo community. As I mentioned in my essay, this is because he has dedication to his village, great physical strength, and the villagers’ trust. His dedication is clearly shown when he is forced to kill Ikemefuna because although most readers would see this as an act of a villain, this actually shows his dedication because he was willing to kill his own son in order to obey the traditions of his village. As a result, he gained the villagers’ trust, which is certainly an important trait to have as a hero. Also, his physical strength is not only well known throughout all the villages, but is also feared by them. This was shown when Okwonkwo went to Mbaino to negotiate at the beginning of the story. When Okwonkwo arrived at Mbaino, the villagers there had already prepared a young boy and girl to give to Umofia due to their fear of Okwonkwo's strength if a war was to start.
In addition, he is a hero because he completely matches the description of a “Dark Hero”. Throughout the novel, Okwonkwo displays a lack of control over his anger, and his love for violent ways to solve his problems. His flawed personality traits are clearly seen at the end of the story where his anger causes him to kill a white messenger from the church. As a result, he is forced to commit suicide, causing the downfall of the great hero of the Igbo.
I definately agree with your opinion Jeremy!
ReplyDeleteHe obviously is not a modern day hero because he doesn't have the kind heart or the will to save others but I find admiration for his brave spirit.
You brought up an interesting concept of a "Dark Hero". The concept kind of reminded me of the Hulk who is unable to control his emotions and shows an agressive physical motion towards his actions. (But he IS deemed a classic superhero)
Good job on the post Jeremy!
He was definitely a hero who stuck to his dedication to his village, even to the very end. As a "dark hero", his flawed way of life led to his unfortunate end. However I also think that his flaws were part of what made him a hero. His unchanging attitude towards any situation really is something to keep in mind. Great post Jeremy (Go Canucks Go!) :D
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you guys are saying. He is definitely not a hero in today's point of view, and that he is a hero in his own way. He isn't a hero at first glance but the more you think about it he starts to be more like a hero everyday. Good job jeremy!
ReplyDeleteP.S. 3-0 Canucks in the series! WOOT!
In a way, Okonkwo does have somewhat of a kind heart on the inside. He cares about his family even thought it may not be obvious. For example, he wants Nwoye to be a successful man when he grows up, so Okonkwo tries his best to push Nwoye in the right direction. Unfortunately, the only emotion Okonkwo expresses is anger and violence. Okonkwo beats his son, but wants the best for him.
ReplyDeleteThis example is much like yours because even though it seems like Okonkwo killed Ikemefuna out of cold blood, Okonkwo was only respecting the wishes of his village.
In today's society, Okonkwo is definitely not a hero. Without proper control over his emotions and especially his anger, he uses his violence to solve all his problems. Although he only wishes for best for his clan, his methods and thinking is definitely flawed.
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