Things Fall Apart - Chapter 15 Summary and Analysis

Key Events

• Obierika's Visit:

  • During Okonkwo's second year in exile, Obierika visits him.
  • They converse with Uchendu, who reminisces about the past when men had friends in distant clans.
  • Uchendu notes that the current generation is afraid of their neighbors.

• **News of White Men: **

  • Obierika shares that the Abame clan has been wiped out.
  • A white man, not an albino, arrived in the village on an "Iron Horse" (likely a bicycle).
  • The Oracle predicted that the white man would bring destruction and warned of more white men to come, referring to them as locusts.
  • The clan killed the white man and tied his bicycle to a tree.
  • White men later returned with reinforcements and massacred the villagers at the market.

• **Discussion and Reactions: **

  • Uchendu and Okonkwo discuss the incident. Uchendu believes it was foolish to kill a man who said nothing.
  • Okonkwo thinks the clan should have been prepared and armed.
  • Obierika shares his disbelief and fear about the stories of white men taking villagers as slaves.

Themes and Symbolism

• Change and Colonialism:

  • The arrival of white men marks a significant change and foreshadows the impact of colonialism.
  • The Oracle's metaphor of white men as locusts symbolizes the destructive nature of colonialism.
  • Earlier in the novel, locusts brought joy but now symbolize impending destruction.

• **Friendship: **

  • The chapter highlights the bond between Obierika and Okonkwo.
  • Obierika manages Okonkwo's affairs and insists on helping without expecting thanks.

Analysis

• **Symbolism of Locusts: **

  • Locusts are used to symbolize destruction and change, mirroring the events in the novel.
  • They also reference the Biblical plagues, drawing a parallel to the devastation brought by colonial forces.

• Foreshadowing:

  • The arrival of the first white man and the prophecy of more to come foreshadow the impending cultural and societal upheaval.

• Cultural Reflection:

  • Uchendu's reflection on the past versus the present generation highlights changes in societal values and fear.

Character Development

• **Okonkwo: **

  • Shows subtle emotions and deeper bonds with friends, especially Obierika.
  • His reaction to the news indicates his defiance and readiness to confront threats.

• **Obierika: **

  • Demonstrates loyalty and concern for Okonkwo.
  • His fears about the white men reveal the broader anxieties within the clan.

• **Uchendu: **

  • Acts as a reflective figure, offering insights into generational changes and wisdom.

This chapter is pivotal as it not only progresses the plot but also deepens the themes of change, colonialism, and the bonds of friendship, setting the stage for the dramatic transformations to come in the novel.