ALLUSION IN THINGS FALL APART

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Discuss your groups assigned question and write down your answer on the chart, using
evidence from the book to support your response. Also take notes on what your group
members believe. Use what you discussed and wrote to help you contribute to our class
discussion of the following questions:
1. How might the scene in which Okonkwo sacrifices Ikemefuna be considered an allegory
referencing the Biblical story above?
2. Compare and contrast the sacrifice asked of Abraham and Okonkwo. Especially think
about the motivation for the murders. What was the motivation for Ikemefumas murder?
What was the motivation for Abrahams attempted sacrifice?
3. How do you think the following people feel about the death of Ikemefuna?
A. Okonkwo B. Nwoye C. Other members of the clan in Umuofia
4. A major conflict in Things Fall Apart is the conflict between fathers and sons.
A. What is the dynamic between Okonkwo and his father?
B. Okonkwo and Ikemefuna?
C. Oknonkwo and Nwoye?
D. Predict what might happen between Okonkwo and Nwoye.
5. Do you agree or disagree with this statement, and explain why: Okonkwo would lose the
respect of his community if he did not participate in the death of Ikemefuna.
6. The killing of Ikemefuna violates western cultural norms and values. Considering our
common cultural practices associated with crime and punishment, what Western practice
would the clan in Umuofia view as a violation of their cultural norms or values? Why?
7. Which of the following statements is most closely aligned with your views on this event
in the story? (Suggest another view if these do not represent your perspective):
A. Okonkwos sacrifice of Ikemefuna was an unnecessary act of cruelty.
B. Okonkwos sacrifice of Ikemefuna was an act of compassion.
C. Okonkwo was obeying his duty and tradition in sacrificing Ikemefuna.

ALLUSION IN THINGS FALL APART

Responses
Me:
__________

Group
member #1
__________
Group
member #2
__________
Group
member #3
__________
Group
member #4
__________