Living in Exile/Okonkwo Flees to His Motherland

After being forced to leave Umuofia, Okonkwo takes his family to live in the village of Mbanta with his mother's people. There Okonkwo is welcomed by his cousins and his mother's brother Uchendu. It is Uchendu who helps Okonkwo accept the circumstances of his exile and to find the strength he needs to support and protect his family. It is Uchendu who also provides the wisdom and experience both Okonkwo and Obierika need to understand the difficulties the clan will face as they confront the coming of the European missionaries and colonists. Think about some of the stories and observations Uchendu shares with the men. Consider what he tells them about how the men of their generation no longer know their neighbors, his use of the story of Mother Kite, Daughter Kite, and the duckling, and even his saying, "There is no story that is not true." You may even consider how it is Uchendu who stops Okonkwo from killing Nwoye after he learns about his involvement with the white church. Obviously, the foundation for the coming cultural conflict is established in Part Two. Based on what you've read, what potential cultural conflict do you see and why will it not be easily/responsibly resolved? Please support what you say with evidence from the text.

Best Friends: Okonkwo and Obierika

After a careful reading of Chapters 7 and 8, we have a chance to compare Okonkwo to his best friend Obierika. Although the men are both well-respected members of their village, they don't always see things exactly the same way. Take a few minutes and think about the similarities and differences that you see when looking at the two men. Now, focusing on just two or three important areas/characteristics, take the time to compare and contrast the two men for our readers. Don't forget to include a few story details. It will make it easier for us to see the men just as you see them.

Learning About Village Life

After reading chapters one through six, we have learned much about what life is like in the African village of Umuofia. During class we discussed the religious beliefs and practices of the villagers as well as their cultural traditions, tribal and social responsibilities and expectations, and family dynamics. Looking back over what you have read and what we have discussed, how do the people of Umuofia show us that in many ways their lives look like ours? In today's post, write a brief summary of the basic components of village life and show how the people who live there prove themselves to be members of a very civilized society.

Imperial Federal Map: Purpose and Point of View

In class today we examined and discussed the Imperial Federation Map. Most of you had lots to say about the artwork creating the border of the map. You were quick to note the trident held by the woman sitting on top of world depicted front and center at the bottom of the map and that the shield beside her was covered in the British flag. Needless to say, we went on to discuss all the different people surrounding her and how they represented all the places where Britian had established colonies. The map itself not only shaded the colonized continents and countries but included all the trade routes and bounty. This map had a point of view and a purpose!