Question

Many Europeans, even up until the 1960s, argued that Africa was an uncivilized place that lacked history and culture. They depicted Africans as barbaric and warlike. How does Chinua Achebe’s novel, Things Fall Apart tell a different story about Africans? Use 2 or more specific examples from the story that show a different story about African society. Write in complete sentences and be sure to EXPLAIN how the examples you discuss answer the prompt.

Options:
A) Chinua Achebe's novel, Things Fall Apart, does not challenge the European view of Africans.
B) The novel portrays African society as complex and culturally rich.
C) Achebe's work reinforces the stereotype of Africans as barbaric.
D) The novel doesn't provide any examples that challenge the European view of Africa.

Answer 1

Chinua Achebe's novel, Things Fall Apart, challenges the European stereotype of Africa as an uncivilized place by depicting African society as complex and culturally rich. The story explores the traditions and customs of the Igbo people and presents a nuanced view of African society. It also focuses on the character of Okonkwo, whose story humanizes African individuals and explores universal themes. option (b)

Step-by-step explanation:

Chinua Achebe's novel, Things Fall Apart, tells a different story about Africans by portraying African society as complex and culturally rich. One example from the story that shows this is the depiction of the Igbo people's traditions and customs, such as their religious practices, social hierarchy, and agricultural practices. These details present a nuanced and multifaceted view of African society that challenges the European stereotype of Africans as barbaric and warlike.

Another example from the story is the character of Okonkwo, the protagonist. Okonkwo is a complex and multi-dimensional character who struggles with internal conflicts and strives to uphold his family's honor. Through Okonkwo's story, Achebe humanizes African individuals and explores universal themes of ambition, masculinity, and the impact of colonialism on traditional societies.