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Chinua Achebe's *Things Fall Apart* Chapter 11

Aug 4, 2024

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.

Themes and Analysis

  • 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.

Important Characters

  • Ekwefi - Mother of Ezinma, shows courage and determination.
  • Ezinma - Child summoned by the Oracle, central to the chapter's events.
  • Chielo - Priestess of the Oracle, exhibits dual nature.
  • Okonkwo - Father of Ezinma, shows tenderness and concern.