29th Annual Student Research Conference
Hypermasculinity within Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart
Jayme L. Eoff
Dr. Hena Ahmad, Faculty Mentor
In the novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, the main character Okonkwo lives with a constant struggle of self-doubt and insecurity. I will be focusing on the hypermasculinity portrayed by Okonkwo that convinces him to take such jurassic measures in proving himself to the Umuofia tribe of the Igbo people. Working hard to bring pride back to his family?s name, Okonkwo quickly establishes dominance and power when he kills his adopted son. Although he secretly mourned the death of Ikemefuna, Okonkwo did what was needed to erase the cowardice reputation that was provoked by his father?s actions. Throughout Okonkwo?s journey to success and fulfillment of dissolving his father?s legacy, we uncover that the emotionless act is indeed just an act, but that as time goes on, pretending to be something long enough can develop into a true trait of one?s being. I will explore the significance of how one?s inner insecurities can affect one?s ability to make rational decisions and identify the psychological meaning conveyed in the writing.
Keywords: Things Fall Apart, Hypermasculinity
Topic(s):English
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: -1
Location: VH 1328
Time: 1:00