If you are an avid reader, then you must have come across the classic novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe. It is a novel that has become a staple in literature and has been translated into over 50 languages worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the novel, its history, and its significance in modern literature. Readers can download the pdf from this article. If you do not want to downland it you can also read it on our website for free.
Introduction
The novel Things Fall Apart is set in pre-colonial Nigeria and follows the story of a wealthy and respected warrior, Okonkwo. The novel’s central theme revolves around the clash between the traditional Igbo culture and the incoming Western culture. The novel was first published in 1958 and has since become a classic in African literature. It has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and has been taught in schools and universities globally.
History of the Novel
Chinua Achebe wrote Things Fall Apart in response to the Western representation of Africa in literature. Achebe was unhappy with how African culture was portrayed in Western literature, which often portrayed Africans as uncivilized and backward. He wanted to change this narrative and provide an accurate representation of African culture from an African perspective. He chose to write the novel in English, the language of the colonizers, to reach a wider audience and challenge the Western narrative of Africa.
Download link to the Things fall apart pdf is given below
Plot Summary
The novel’s protagonist, Okonkwo, is a respected warrior in the Igbo community. He is known for his strength, bravery, and hard work. Okonkwo’s world is turned upside down when Christian missionaries arrive in his village, introducing a new religion and culture that threatens the traditional way of life. Okonkwo struggles to adapt to the changing world and finds himself in conflict with the new culture. The novel ends tragically with Okonkwo taking his life, unable to cope with the changes that have taken place.
Themes in the Novel
Things Fall Apart explores various themes, including:
1. Tradition vs. Change
The novel portrays the conflict between the traditional Igbo culture and the incoming Western culture. The novel highlights the clash between the two cultures and the difficulties of reconciling the two.
2. Gender Roles
The novel explores the gender roles in the Igbo culture and the impact of gender on society. It highlights the gender roles and expectations and how they shape people’s lives.
3. Fate and Free Will
The novel explores the idea of fate and free will and how they shape people’s lives. It highlights the struggles of the characters as they try to navigate their way through life and the decisions they make.
4. Colonialism
The novel portrays the impact of colonialism on African culture and society. It highlights the challenges of navigating a changing world and the difficulties of reconciling the old with the new.
Significance of the Novel
Things Fall Apart is a significant novel that has had a profound impact on literature and society. The novel has been translated into over 50 languages, making it accessible to a global audience. It has also inspired other African writers to tell their stories and has played a significant role in challenging the Western narrative of Africa.
Direct download link to the Things fall apart pdf
Conclusion
In conclusion, Things Fall Apart is a classic novel that has become a staple in African literature. It explores themes such as tradition vs. change, gender roles, fate and free will, and colonialism. The novel has had a significant impact on literature and society and has played a significant role in challenging the Western narrative of Africa.
FAQs
- What is “Things Fall Apart” about?
Things Fall Apart is a novel set in pre-colonial Nigeria that explores the clash between the traditional Igbo culture and the incoming Western culture. It follows the story of a respected warrior, Okonkwo, as he struggles to adapt to the changing world.
- What is the significance of the novel?
Things Fall Apart is a significant novel that has had a profound impact on literature and society. It has challenged the Western narrative of Africa and has inspired other African writers to tell their stories.
- What are some of the themes explored in the novel?
The novel explores themes such as tradition vs. change, gender roles, fate and free will, and colonialism.
- Why did Chinua Achebe write the novel in English?
Chinua Achebe wrote the novel in English to challenge the Western narrative of Africa and to reach a wider audience.
- Has the novel been translated into other languages?
Yes, the novel has been translated into over 50 languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
