Lecture Notes: Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart - Part One, Chapter 11

Key Events and Plot Points

Folktale Told by Ekwefi
- Ekwefi tells Ezinma a story about Tortoise, a cunning creature.
- Tortoise tricks birds to enjoy the best of a feast, leaving scraps for them.
- Birds retaliate, causing Tortoise's shell to break.
- Medicine man repairs the shell, explaining why it is not smooth.
Oracle's Summon
- Chielo, the priestess of the Oracle Agbala, arrives at Okonkwo's compound.
- She demands Ezinma to come with her because the Oracle wants to see the girl.
- Okonkwo requests Chielo to come back later as Ezinma is asleep.
- Ekwefi wants to accompany her daughter but is warned that coming to Agbala without being summoned would bring a curse.
- Chielo carries Ezinma away.
Ekwefi's Determination
- Despite the risk of punishment, Ekwefi decides to follow Chielo and Ezinma.
- She follows them all night through the nine villages.
- Chielo takes Ezinma into the Oracle's cave, while Ekwefi waits outside.
Okonkwo's Support
- Okonkwo arrives, startling Ekwefi, and sits with her.
- Ekwefi appreciates his presence and reminisces about their early days.

Moral of the Folktale
- The story highlights the dangers of greed and cunning. Tortoise uses language to deceive the birds.
- Birds' honesty and decency make them gullible.
Chielo's Dual Nature
- Chielo as the priestess commands authority and reverence.
- She is different from the friendly woman Ekwefi spoke with at the wrestling match.
Okonkwo's Tenderness and Fear
- Okonkwo's attempt to stop Chielo reveals his deep concern for Ezinma.
- He shows tenderness and fear for his child's safety.
Maternal Love and Defiance
- Ekwefi's actions show her maternal instincts and willingness to defy the gods to protect Ezinma.
- Okonkwo also defies the gods, showing concern for Ekwefi.
- Their interactions reveal a rare display of love between husband and wife.