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Examples Of Foreshadowing In Things Fall Apart

774 Words4 Pages

Rowan Johnson
Lee
7th Period
May 10th, 2023

Did you know that there is a good amount of Irony used to demonstrate the main theme of Clashing Cultures in Chinua Achebe's famous novel, Things Fall Apart? The novel dives into the complexities of clashing cultures in colonial Nigeria with such characters as Okonkwo, Ezinma, and Ekwefi, all a part of an Igbo tribe. With amazing use of literary devices, Achebe skillfully uses irony, metaphors, and foreshadowing to enhance the book and deepen the understanding of realization for the clash of cultures between the traditional Igbo society and the approaching forces of colonialism and christianity. These literary devices not only help to enhance the storytelling, but also serve as powerful tools to help readers predict the main theme of Clashing Cultures. Through viewing the strategic use of irony, metaphors, and foreshadowing, we are able to see how Achebe uses these …show more content…

An example of foreshadowing can be seen early on in the book when Okonkwo's father, Unoka, is introduced. Unoka is described as "weak and effeminate" and is usually associated with failure in his life (Achebe 11). This foreshadows Okonkwo's fear of resembling his father and his relentless pursuit of masculinity and leadership in the Igbo tribe, which ultimately leads to his downfall in the face of christianity and colonialism. Furthermore, towards the end of the book, the oracle warns the villagers that "the white man has put a knife on the things that held us together." (Achebe 128). This foreboding statement serves as a warning of the impending destruction of their traditions and other daily beliefs. Through the use of foreshadowing, Achebe heightens the clash between cultures and builds anticipation for the subsequent events that’ll unfold as the book reaches it’s

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