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  • Essay / Masculinity in Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

    Okonkwo is feared by his family members due to his aggressive nature. He is not very open and friendly with his wives and children, which creates barriers within the family. His social life is destroyed. “Okonkwo ran his house with a heavy hand. His wives, especially the youngest, lived in perpetual fear of his fiery character, just like his children... But they did not dare to complain openly. (Achebe 13) Men in Ibo culture have more importance and authority over women. Women are known as the “weaker sex” because they have not had as many opportunities outside of their daily lives at home. Okonkwo's children and wives have absolutely no power because they have been frightened by his aggressive behavior. He believes that to establish firm power and show his manhood, he must be violent and abusive. However, this is not the case as he degrades his stature by such actions. Okonkwo should instead support his family with more compassion so that there is a stronger bond between them.