Critique of The Effect of Western Imperialism on The Third World in Things Fall Apart

Throughout history, nations have sought to expand their influence through colonization. The nineteenth century marked a significant era when many European countries set their sights on Africa, aiming to establish colonies. However, the consequences of these colonial endeavors were dire. Africa emerged from this period in a state of devastation, with its societies left in disarray. Many people around the world have voiced their disapproval of Europe's imperialistic pursuits and the adverse effects they inflicted upon the African continent. This widespread criticism has inspired numerous literary works, films, and songs. One notable literary critique of the impact of Western imperialism on the "Third World" is Chinua Achebe's novel, *Things Fall Apart*.

The Transformation of Igbo Society

One of the most profound effects of Western imperialism depicted in *Things Fall Apart* is the transformation of traditional Igbo society, particularly through the influence of Christianity. The arrival of missionaries introduces a new set of values and beliefs that begin to erode the existing cultural framework. Initially, the village of Umuofia is characterized by a violent culture, with warriors like Okonkwo revered for their prowess in battle. Okonkwo's status as a respected leader is a testament to the village's values, which prioritize strength and combat. In stark contrast, his father, Unoka, embodies a peaceful and gentle nature, yet he is marginalized and disrespected due to his lack of ambition and adherence to traditional masculine ideals.

As the Christian missionaries gain a foothold in Umuofia, the villagers' perception of violence begins to shift. The once-celebrated warrior ethos is challenged by the new moral framework introduced by the church. This shift is illustrated by the diminishing respect for violent behavior, as evidenced by the absence of violent confrontations between Umuofia and neighboring villages after the missionaries establish their presence. The church's teachings promote a more peaceful coexistence, leading to a gradual decline in the village's aggressive tendencies. This transformation not only alters the societal dynamics but also creates a rift within the community, as individuals grapple with conflicting values.

The Imposition of Colonial Governance

Another significant aspect of Western imperialism's negative impact is the introduction of colonial governance. Alongside their religious mission, the Christians brought their political systems, which undermined the traditional governance structures of the Igbo people. The colonial government imposed restrictions on the rights of the native population, leading to a systematic disenfranchisement of the very people who had once held power within their communities. The new governance model prioritized the interests of the colonizers over the rights of the indigenous population, resulting in widespread injustice and inequality.

This imposition of colonial governance can be seen as a precursor to apartheid and other forms of systemic racism that emerged in Africa. The colonial government dismantled the existing command system, which had functioned effectively within Igbo society for generations. This disruption led to immense social and political upheaval, leaving the native population vulnerable to exploitation and oppression. The damage inflicted upon the traditional governance structures not only affected the immediate community but also had lasting repercussions for future generations.

Consequences of Western Imperialism

The repercussions of Western imperialism, as illustrated in *Things Fall Apart*, extend beyond individual experiences to encompass broader societal consequences. The following list highlights some of the key negative effects of imperialism depicted in the novella:

• Disruption of traditional cultural practices and beliefs.
• Marginalization of indigenous leaders and governance systems.
• Loss of respect for traditional values, including warrior culture.
• Systematic disenfranchisement of the native population.
• Introduction of racial discrimination and systemic injustice.

Parallel Realities: Fiction and History

Achebe's *Things Fall Apart* serves as a poignant critique of Western imperialism and its detrimental effects on the "Third World." The situations portrayed in the novella reflect the realities faced by African societies during the nineteenth century, offering readers a lens through which to understand the historical context of colonialism. The parallels between the fictional narrative and actual historical events underscore the devastating impact of imperialism on African cultures, economies, and political structures.

In conclusion, *Things Fall Apart* stands as a powerful literary exploration of the effects of Western imperialism on the Igbo people and their society. Through the lens of the characters and their experiences, Achebe illuminates the complexities of cultural transformation, the imposition of colonial governance, and the broader societal consequences of imperialism. The novella serves as a reminder of the resilience of indigenous cultures in the face of external pressures and the importance of acknowledging and addressing the historical injustices that continue to shape the world today.

References

Achebe, Chinua. *Things Fall Apart*. Anchor Books, 1994.

Gikandi, Simon. "Chinua Achebe and the Politics of Language." *Research in African Literatures*, vol. 28, no. 2, 1997, pp. 1-19.

Young, Robert J.C. *Postcolonialism: An Historical Introduction*. Blackwell Publishers, 2001.