Inference – Commentary
Textual reference-
“Okonkwo was well known through the nine villages…”
Context-
Okonkwo is introduced, he well known.
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Honor
Commentary-
Okonkwo seems to be loved but also feared because of his impatience.
Textual reference-
“His wives, especially the youngest lived in perpetual fear of his fiery temper…”
Context-
Because of the laziness of his father, Okonkwo was harsh and abusive but not cruel.
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Fear of failure
Commentary-
Okonkwo wants to be nothing like his father.
Textual reference-
“Okonkwo did not have the start in life which many young men usually had.”
Context-
His fathers’ laziness affected Okonkwos’ life in terrible ways.
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Family
Commentary-
Textual reference-
“The evil you have done can ruin the whole clan…we shall all perish.”
Context-
Okonkwo has been lucky, but now he will pay for his actions
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Fate
Commentary- Okonkwo is driving his wives away.
Textual reference-
“But somehow Okonkwo could never become as enthusiastic over feasts as most people”
Context-
Okonkwo feels the need to work instead of celebrate.
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Honor
Commentary-
Okonkwo is too hardworking.
Textual reference-
“They stood round in a huge circle leaving the center of the playground free.”
Context-
They are getting ready for the wrestling matches.
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Relationships
Commentary- The wrestling matches are a big deal among the villages.
Textual reference-
Dazed with fear, Okonkwo drew his machete and cut him down. He was afraid of being thought weak.”
Context-
They, Okonkwo killed Ikemefuna.
Thematic idea suggested by evidence-
Identity
Commentary-
Okonkwo is so full of “pride” that he is becoming more heartless.
Textual Reference-
“He tried not to think about Ikemefuna, but the more he tried the more he thought about him.”
Context-