Final answer:
The words “soft like women” in the given excerpt from “Things Fall Apart” clearly show Okonkwo's disgust toward the perceived weakness of Umuofia's men due to the changes in the clan. This disgust reflects the broader themes of cultural erosion and colonial impact on traditional societies in Achebe's novel. Option C is correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpt from Things Fall Apart where Okonkwo expresses grief over the changes in his clan and compares the warlike men of Umuofia to being “soft like women” illustrates a stark view into Okonkwo’s mindset and societal values. The phrase “soft like women” most clearly indicates Okonkwo's disgust for the changes in the clan and his belief that the men have become weak and effeminate, which is in stark contrast to the warlike and strong values he cherishes. The comparison implicitly reveals Okonkwo's perspective on gender roles and expectations, mirroring the sentiments prevalent in the patriarchal Igbo society, as well as his inability to accept the transformation of his community and the invasion of colonial influences that threaten the traditional way of life.
Okonkwo’s feelings are a reflection of the broader themes of colonial impact and cultural erosion addressed in Chinua Achebe’s novel, which ties in with the larger history of colonization and its effects on indigenous societies. The sorrow that Okonkwo feels for his clan falling apart is overshadowed by his deep-seated disgust towards the perceived weakness that he views as a betrayal of the clan’s once proud and fierce reputation.
Therefore, within the context of the given excerpt, the most appropriate answer that reflects Okonkwo's emotions would be option (c) Disgust.