Proverbs In The Novel Things Fall Apart
Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" is a novel that explores the cultural and historical context of Nigeria before and after colonialism. One of the most striking features of the novel is the use of proverbs. Proverbs are an integral part of African culture and are used to convey wisdom, teachings, and moral lessons. Achebe uses proverbs in "Things Fall Apart" to highlight the themes of tradition, change, and identity. In this article, we will explore some of the most significant proverbs in the novel.
“If a child washes his hands, he could eat with kings.”
This proverb is used to emphasize the importance of cleanliness and hard work. In the novel, it is used to describe Okonkwo's rise to power. Okonkwo is a hard-working man who becomes a respected leader in his community. The proverb suggests that if one is diligent and disciplined, they can achieve great success and be recognized by those in power.
“Proverbs are the palm oil with which words are eaten.”
This proverb highlights the importance of proverbs in African culture. Palm oil is a staple in many African dishes and is used to enhance the flavor of the food. Similarly, proverbs are used to enhance the meaning of words and provide deeper insight into the culture and traditions of the people. Achebe uses this proverb to show how proverbs are an essential part of communication in African societies.
“The sun will shine on those who stand before it shines on those who kneel under them.”
This proverb is used to describe the importance of standing up for oneself and taking control of one's own destiny. In the novel, it is used to describe Okonkwo's struggle to maintain his identity and resist the influence of the colonialists. The proverb suggests that those who stand up for themselves will ultimately be successful and receive the blessings of the sun.
“A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving.”
This proverb is used to describe the importance of community and hospitality in African culture. In the novel, it is used to describe the feast that Okonkwo hosts when he returns to his village after being exiled. The proverb suggests that hosting a feast is not just about providing food but also about bringing people together and strengthening relationships.
“A man's character is his fate.”
This proverb is used to describe the idea that a person's character determines their destiny. In the novel, it is used to describe Okonkwo's downfall. Okonkwo's violent and impulsive nature leads to his ultimate downfall and tragic end. The proverb suggests that one's actions and behaviors have consequences and can ultimately determine their fate.
“The lizard that jumped from the high Iroko tree to the ground said he would praise himself if no one else did.”
This proverb is used to describe the importance of self-praise and self-confidence. In the novel, it is used to describe the character Ekwefi, who takes pride in her own beauty and intelligence. The proverb suggests that one should not wait for others to praise them but should be confident in their own abilities and accomplishments.
“You cannot plant greatness as you plant yams or maize.”
This proverb is used to describe the idea that greatness cannot be achieved through mere effort or hard work. In the novel, it is used to describe Okonkwo's ambition to become a great man. The proverb suggests that greatness is not something that can be achieved through external factors but is something that comes from within.
“A man who brings home ant-infested faggots must be prepared for the visit of lizards.”
This proverb is used to describe the idea that one's actions can have unintended consequences. In the novel, it is used to describe the arrival of the colonialists, who disrupt the traditional way of life in the village. The proverb suggests that Okonkwo and his people should have been aware of the potential consequences of their actions and prepared for the arrival of the colonialists.
“The world has no end, and what is good among one people is an abomination with others.”
This proverb is used to describe the idea that different cultures have different values and beliefs. In the novel, it is used to describe the clash between the traditional African culture and the Western culture brought by the colonialists. The proverb suggests that what is considered good or acceptable in one culture may not be the same in another culture.
“The chicken that will grow into a cock can be spotted the very day it hatches.”
This proverb is used to describe the idea that a person's potential can be recognized at an early age. In the novel, it is used to describe the character Ikemefuna, who is taken in by Okonkwo's family as a young boy. The proverb suggests that Ikemefuna has the potential to become a great man, but his fate is ultimately determined by the actions of others.
Conclusion
Proverbs play an essential role in African culture and are used to convey wisdom, moral lessons, and teachings. Chinua Achebe uses proverbs in "Things Fall Apart" to highlight the themes of tradition, change, and identity. The proverbs in the novel provide insights into the cultural and historical context of Nigeria before and after colonialism. Through the use of proverbs, Achebe shows the importance of community, self-praise, and self-confidence, and the consequences of one's actions. The novel serves as a reminder that different cultures have different values and beliefs and that it is essential to understand and respect these differences.