Gender Prevalence in Things Fall Apart

Blog Post | Gender Prevalence in Things Fall Apart

With the Grade 11 Mock Exams on the horizon, it is important that I’m well prepared for the English Language and Literature Paper One and Paper Two exams to maintain my current grade. In preparation to Paper Two, I will create an outline including a thesis statement and topic sentences in response to the following potential essay question; ‘With reference to Things Fall Apart, discuss how an understanding of gender influences how the text may be understood.’

Thesis Statement: In the rich-cultured novel Things Fall Apart, Nigerian author Chinua Achebe addresses the controversial notion of gender prevalence in reference to the respected values of Igbo culture to a diverse audience including both Western and African readers. Consequently, the understanding of gender within the story becomes culturally dependent; the submissive role of women in society versus men, significance of elderly supremacy with specific appreciation to all mother figures, and lastly interpretation of male strength opposing female courage.  

Topic Sentence 1: The portrayal of the submissive role of women in Umuofia is one of the accepted social positions within Igbo culture, hence Western readers will be more critical of this segregation between male and female genders. Equality is highly valued in the Western world.

Topic Sentence 2: Achebe stresses the importance of the Igbo hierarchical system by predominating the elderly classes due to their life experiences and knowledge. Especially motherhood is profoundly appreciated as they are the ones who protect their children and they form the essential link with mother earth.

Topic Sentence 3: Male dominance is easily detected when observing Okonkwo’s character who detests female traits as he views them as weak and powerless. A western audience will respond more sensitive then an African audience would, as Achebe emphasizes the importance of achieving titles amongst men tribal members in Igbo culture and this is uncommon to the Westerns.