Theme of Fear of Okonkwo

In Chinua Achebe's novel "Things Fall Apart," the protagonist Okonkwo is a man driven by fear. His life is shaped by a constant, deep-seated dread of failure and weakness. This fear drives his actions and decisions, ultimately leading to his downfall. Throughout the novel, the theme of fear is central to Okonkwo's character and the narrative as a whole. This essay will explore the theme of fear in "Things Fall Apart," examining how Okonkwo's fear influences his behavior and impacts the world around him.

Okonkwo's fear is rooted in a desire to distance himself from his father's legacy of weakness and failure. His father, Unoka, was considered lazy, ineffectual, and a disgrace to the family. Okonkwo is determined to be the opposite of his father, to be strong, successful, and respected. This fear of becoming like his father drives him to achieve greatness and to prove himself to his community. As a result, Okonkwo becomes a harsh and domineering figure, ruling his household with an iron fist and demanding absolute obedience from his wives and children.

This fear also shapes Okonkwo's interactions with others in the community. He is quick to anger and fiercely competitive, always striving to outdo his peers and assert his dominance. This behavior is a manifestation of his fear of appearing weak or vulnerable. Okonkwo's fear leads him to make impulsive and often violent decisions, such as his role in the killing of Ikemefuna, a boy who had become a part of his family. His fear of being perceived as weak or indecisive drives him to take extreme measures to maintain his reputation and status.

Furthermore, Okonkwo's fear of failure and weakness leads him to resist change and cling to tradition. He is deeply invested in the customs and values of his culture, and he fears that any deviation from these traditions will result in the downfall of his community. This fear is evident in his antagonism towards the white missionaries and their influence, as he sees their presence as a threat to the stability and integrity of his society.

The consequences of Okonkwo's fear are profound, both for himself and for those around him. His relentless pursuit of strength and success ultimately leads to his alienation from his family and community. His fear prevents him from expressing love and compassion, and his inability to adapt to change ultimately leads to his tragic demise. Okonkwo's fear of being seen as weak ultimately becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, as it drives him to make choices that isolate him and lead to his downfall.

In conclusion, the theme of fear is a central and compelling aspect of "Things Fall Apart." Okonkwo's fear of failure and weakness drives his actions and decisions, ultimately shaping the trajectory of his life. His fear impacts his relationships, his community, and his own well-being. Through Okonkwo's story, Achebe explores the destructive power of fear and its ability to shape and destroy lives. This theme serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of confronting and overcoming our fears, rather than allowing them to dictate our actions and decisions.