Okonkwo In Things Fall Apart

Things Fall Apart is an attention-grabbing novel full of violence, aggression, and oppression, which is likely to influence most people that its main protagonist Okonkwo was a true tribesman with qualities that far surpassed many among his clan and a revered leader. However, the physical and psychological qualities of Oknokwos’ character reflected an individual who was nothing short of a “king like” ruler and conquer. “And such was the deep fear that their enemies had for Umuofia that they treated Okonkwo like a king”. (18) Oknokwo traits of being a self-seeking, abusive, and cold hearted individual made him a man that preys on the weak and young, and people in general who falls outside of his definition of a man. Oknokwo character lack real
strength, disciple, and bravery as his life ended in shame reflective of the weakness he spent his whole life avoiding. Okonkwo character in all fairness fails to stage any real virtues of a true leader but rather that of a dictator.
Okonkwo character was introduced to the readers as ““Roaring Flame”” (p.88) a person who is fearless and a heroic leader who is always on the forefront defending his follow tribesmen from oppression and liberating his people from the suffering of wars and conflicts.
“Okonkwo had been chosen by the nine villages to carry a message of war to their enemies”. (p.18) He won his fame from mere physical strength on the battlefield and won the hearts of the elders with his ability to be ruthless and unforgiving to his enemies. “Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond.” (p.01). His victories were actually gloried and his overall status was rank among the best in his village. In addition, his life as a farmer also enhances his reputation as a hardworking man and a provider for his family. From a very young age Okonkwo determined to have a life that is an embodiment of manliness, hard work, and success. “He was a wealthy farmer and had two barns full of yams, and had just married his third wife. To crown it all he had taken two titles”.
(p.07)
However, a closer examination of the life of Oknokwo raises many questions about his true strengths and his real virtues as a leader.
Okonkwo lack the fundamental value of a true leader. Okonkwo character reveals a dark and vicious side that was abusive, cold hearted and lack positive qualities. Okonkwo had no patience with his fellow tribesmen, his family, or people he deemed inferior. His impatience was his biggest weakness. ”He had no patience with unsuccessful men.” (p.02). His lack of patience had an immediate impact on his relationship with the people around him including those who held Oknokwo to high esteem. “Indeed he respected him for his industry and success. But he was struck, as most people were, by Okonkwo’s brusqueness in dealing with less successful men.” (p.17) Beside his impatience Okonkwo seem to lack the inner strength to speak up against crimes committed by the elders of the tribe. He feels inferior to the clan and is more worried about his prestige. He preferred to be a villain instead of being a virtuous person and save Ikemefuna. He was so cold hearted that he refused to intervene and save Ikemefuna life when he very well knew that the boy life was worthy saving. “He was by nature a very lively boy and he gradually become popular in Okonkwo’s household”. (p.18) As a matter of fact Okonkwo exhibits actions of tyrant when he took the final blow to Ikemefuna as Ikemefuna sought his protection from the tribesmen as they strike him with their matchet.
“”My Father, they have killed me!”” (p.38) In addition, throughout the novel Okonkwo abusiveness can be felt outside and inside his home. He took vengeances against anyone who dared go against his wishes and commands. He uses aggression to establish his rule. His action of defiance against the elders and the Gods shows his king like status that he so much enjoys.