The clash of cultures is undoubtedly one of the most universal themes seen in literature. and China are one example; the Palestinians and Israelis are another—continue their struggles to reconcile dissimilar beliefs through negotiation, and in some cases, armed conflict.This cultural clash can be seen throughout life and history anytime two groups of people hold differing views that cannot coexist. Similarly, the European missionaries and the native Umuofians struggle to coexist peacefully.“Old men nodded to the beat of the drums and remembered . One method they used to captivate the tribesmen was to sing hymns. It was one of those gay and rollicking tunes of evangelism which had the power of plucking at silent and dusty chords in the heart of an Ibo man” (146). Achebe uses imagery of the “silent” and “dusty” Umuofian man’s heart being quenched by the Christian music to demonstrate the European point-of-view.Tags: Satirical Essays On Texting While DrivingRole Of Women In Nation Building EssayBusiness Plans Templates FreeA Comparasion EssayCollege Athletes Should Not Get Paid EssayEmory Scholars Essay TopicQuestionnaire Format For Research Paper
Like a fire, Okonkwo is violent, and burns whatever he touches. Throughout the novel, Okonkwo nags on his wives and son, beats his family, and kills three innocent people—not to mention himself, as well.
In many cases, he hurts his family for trivial reasons.
Achebe expresses the effects of the missionaries clearly through the repeated imagery of the tribal drums.
The signature Umuofian drums are heard many times throughout the story—until the Europeans arrive in the tribe—after which the drums are heard no more. “The drums were still beating, persistent and unchanging.
However, the relationship between the Europeans and the Umuofians is one-sided.
When the Europeans arrived in Umuofia, they brought Christianity with them but did not foist it upon anyone; joining the church was entirely optional.
And this is the beauty of Achebe’s fire metaphor, which is seen throughout the novel.
Ultimately, the success of as a novel of literary merit is due to Achebe’s use of universal literary themes like self-exploration, change, tradition, cultural clash, and masculinity versus femininity.
Achebe uses figurative language like metaphors and similes to compare Okonkwo to a fire. He constantly reminded himself of his masculinity and strove to make sure all his clansmen knew of it as well.
“Okonkwo was popularly called the ‘Roaring Flame.’ As he looked into the log fire he recalled the name. The metaphor of fire is perfect to describe Okonkwo’s character, and yields a deep analysis of human feelings and personality.