Final answer:
Achebe's use of proverbs in 'Things Fall Apart' reflects the cultural significance of conversation among the Igbo, giving depth to his characters and their exchanges. The novel features language that authentically represents Igbo traditions and perspectives, especially regarding colonialism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpt from Chinua Achebe's work suggests that among the Igbo, the art of conversation is highly valued and that proverbs are an essential component of communication, akin to the way palm-oil is used to enhance food. In Things Fall Apart, Achebe's use of language and particularly dialogue demonstrates this cultural value. The characters frequently engage in exchanges laced with proverbs, reflecting the importance of wisdom, tradition, and shared knowledge within the Igbo community. Proverbs serve as a vehicle for conveying complex ideas and values succinctly, and their usage in the novel provides depth to the storytelling and character development.
For instance, when Okonkwo says, "A man who pays respect to the great paves the way for his own greatness," he expresses respect for hierarchy and ambition through an Igbo proverb. The novel's language reflects Achebe's commitment to presenting Igbo culture authentically, as seen in his meticulous depiction of Igbo customs, family life, and societal structures. Achebe's dialogues offer insight into the collective history of the Igbo and their perspectives on colonialism, as proverbs are used to challenge or reinforce cultural beliefs and to navigate the complexities introduced by the arrival of European missionaries and colonial administrators.