TFA Chs. 1-4 discussion questions LOCUSTS PARTNER!

Chapter 1 Compare/contrast Okonkwo with his father, Unoka. Why do you think Okonkwo feels as he does toward his father? Provide evidence from the text to support your answer.

Chapters 1-2 What accomplishments have helped to make Okonkwo a great man of the village? Okonkwo is a wealthy man and holds titles. What are the signs of his wealth and power?

Chapter 2 Why do you think Nwoye (Okonkwo's oldest son) has turned out to be more like his grandfather (Unoka) than his father (Okonkwo)?

Chapter 3 How does Okonkwo's experience with his first harvest shape the way he thinks about his future? Do you agree with his outlook?

Chapter 4 When Okonkwo commits an act of violence during the Week of Peace, he is punished. What do you think about the way he is punished and the real reason for his punishment? (HINT: He is not punished for committing the act of violence, he is punished for WHEN he committed the act of violence.)

Overall Achebe devotes considerable time and attention to highlighting the rich, established culture of the Ibo people in Part One. Where have you seen evidence of established cultural practices? Consider the following: Patriarchal leadership Social mobility Gender roles Hospitality Slave ownership Religious beliefs