In "Marriage is a Private Affair" by Chinua Achebe , stubborness is one of the themes. Okeke, father of Nnaemeka follows the traditional values:choosing a wife to be for his son. Throughout the story, Okeke shows many obstinance.He was very persistent to have Nnaemeka marry to the lady he prefers. Another one is refusing to meet and refusing to acknowledge Nnaemeka's wife, Nene. As long as he is concerned, Nene does not exist. Okeke's obstinance then is clearly illustrated by his refusal to meet Nnaemeka's wife.