Things Fall Apart Symbolism Analysis

In this novel,”Things Fall Apart” Chinua Achebe uses symbolism to help connect foreign concepts to explain central themes and ideas. There are many symbols throughout the book,three of the most easily recognized symbols in “Things Fall Apart” are yams,fire,and locusts. Each object has a more deeper meaning then they were thought to have.Each of these objects come up repeatedly through the book because the author is trying to tell us that they don 't just have that one meaning.Yams are symbols of masculinity, wealth, and strength in this novel. Okonkwo is often described in terms of fire and flames,so to him fire symbolizes potential, masculinity,and life.The locusts symbolize the arrival of the white man and missionaries. Achebe uses these

Fire symbolizes masculinity, ander, and strength , both which Okonkwo represents.Okonkwo is associated with fire throughout the novel,alluding his intense and dangerous anger. He allows his anger to consume him and take control of his actions.In Chapter 1 page 1 it states ,”He had a slight stammer and whenever he was angry and could not get his words out quickly enough,he would use his fists.”Okonkwo had a real anger problem because he associates masculinity with aggression and anger which is why anger is the only emotion he displays.He even shows anger towards his wives and children because his whole life was dominated by fear of failure and of weakness.In Chapter Two page 10 it states,”Okonkwo ruled his household with a heavy hand.His wives,especially the youngest,lived in perpetual fear of his fiery temper,and so did his little children.”Okonkwo frequently beats his wives and even threatens them so he won 't appear weak and feminine like his father.Another quote from Chapter 17 page 133 it states,”Okonkwo was popularly called the ‘Roaring Flame.’As he looked into the log of fire he recalled the name.He was a flaming fire.How could he then have a begotten on like Nwoye...Okonkwo 's eyes were opened and he saw the whole matter clearley.Living fire begets cold,impotent ash.”Okonkwo can become to far overwhelmed with his rage to control it any further,and it ultimately can destroy him,leaving him gray and lifeless like the ashes of