A:No other novel has explored the concept of masculinity like 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. This powerful and insightful book delves deep into the traditional African society, to reveal how things fall apart when it comes to gender roles and expectations. Through its vivid descriptions and detailed characterization of Okonkwo, Achebe paints a picture of what it means to be a man in an ever-changing world.
Okonkwo is determined to prove his worth as a man, but this ambition leads him down a path of destruction. His masculine pride pushes him further away from who he truly is - leading him to commit acts that are not only frowned upon in his tribe, but also deeply damaging for himself and those around him. He sees strength as something that should come at any cost; even if that means sacrificing family or honouring societal norms over personal morals. In doing so, he finds himself losing everything he holds dear - including respect from his peers and love from his family.
Achebe's exploration of masculinity allows readers to reflect on their own views surrounding gender roles and expectations in society today. Through careful character development we are able to understand why Okonkwo behaves the way he does –and thus discover ways in which we can encourage healthier expressions of masculinity within our own lives. By exploring how things ‘fall apart’ due to outdated ideas about what makes someone a ‘man’, this remarkable novel offers us insight into the importance of understanding ourselves better before forcing others onto certain pathways dictated by tradition or prejudice.