Answer:
The literary device employed in this excerpt from "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe is irony. Irony is a literary technique where there is a contrast between what is expected or intended and what actually occurs or is said. In this excerpt, there are several instances of irony that contribute to the overall narrative and themes of the novel.
One example of irony is seen in the clash between the white missionaries and the indigenous Igbo culture. The arrival of the missionaries, who aim to convert the villagers to Christianity, is initially met with curiosity and tolerance by the Igbo people. However, as the story progresses, the clash between the two cultures intensifies, leading to the burning of the church and the subsequent arrest and mistreatment of the village leaders. The irony lies in the fact that the missionaries, who claim to bring salvation and enlightenment, end up inciting conflict and causing harm to the local community.
Another example of irony is found in the title chosen by the District Commissioner for his book, "The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger." The title reflects the patronizing and dismissive attitude of the colonizers towards the indigenous cultures they encounter. It showcases the irony of how the colonizers perceive themselves as bringing progress and civilization to the "primitive" tribes, while disregarding the richness and complexity of the existing cultures and traditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Overall, Achebe employs irony in "Things Fall Apart" to highlight the complexities and contradictions inherent in the collision of cultures, challenging simplistic narratives and exposing the detrimental effects of colonization and cultural imperialism.