Time’s up
Test your understanding of tradition and resistance in Chapter 22 with the Things Fall Apart Quiz. This is not just a set of questions; it’s an exploration of themes, characters, and cultural shifts. In this chapter, the tension between tradition and change reaches a peak. You will uncover the layers of complexity in the interactions between the villagers of Umuofia and the newly arrived missionaries. As you navigate these questions, expect to gain a deeper understanding of the themes of conflict, identity, and resilience.
Achebe’s storytelling draws you into a world where every choice has deep consequences. Each question invites you to think critically about the motivations and struggles of the characters. You will recognize the impact of colonialism and the challenge of maintaining cultural heritage. This quiz will sharpen your insights and enhance your appreciation for Achebe’s masterful narrative.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the richness of this pivotal chapter. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or a literature enthusiast, this quiz promises to be both enlightening and engaging.
What Happened – Things Fall Apart Chapter 22
Reverend Smith replaced Mr. Brown as the new missionary in Umuofia. He was strict and did not tolerate traditional Igbo practices. He encouraged his followers to be more aggressive in their faith. Enoch, a zealous convert, caused conflict during an annual festival. He unmasked an egwugwu, which was a serious offense to the Igbo people. This act was seen as a great disrespect to their culture and gods.
The village was in an uproar after the incident. The egwugwu, who were ancestral spirits, gathered to discuss what happened. They decided to take action against the Christians. The egwugwu marched to the church in a large group. They intended to destroy it as a way to restore their honor.
Reverend Smith and his interpreter, Okeke, confronted the egwugwu. They tried to prevent the destruction of the church. The egwugwu were determined and refused to listen. They allowed Reverend Smith and Okeke to leave unharmed. Then, they set the church on fire and destroyed it completely.
The villagers watched as the church burned down. The egwugwu felt that justice was served. The conflict between the Christians and the traditional Igbo people escalated. The village remained tense after the incident. This event marked a significant turning point in the relationship between the two groups.
Things Fall Apart Chapter 22 – Quotes
- “All our gods are weeping.” – {Mr. Smith}, ‘Context: Mr. Smith, the new missionary, speaks to his congregation, emphasizing the conflict between traditional Igbo beliefs and Christianity.’
“One of the greatest crimes a man could commit was to unmask an egwugwu in public.” – {Narrator}, ‘Context: This statement underscores the cultural and religious significance of the egwugwu, highlighting the tension between colonial forces and Igbo traditions.’
“He does not understand our customs, just as we do not understand his.” – {Mr. Brown}, ‘Context: Mr. Brown reflects on the cultural misunderstandings between the Igbo people and the missionaries, emphasizing the theme of cultural clash.’
“The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion.” – {Obierika}, ‘Context: Obierika discusses the subtle and insidious manner in which colonialism and Christianity have infiltrated and disrupted Igbo society.’
“Our brothers who took the new religion also became strangers.” – {Narrator}, ‘Context: This quote highlights the division and alienation caused by the introduction of Christianity within the Igbo community.’
Things Fall Apart Chapter 22 – FAQ
In Chapter 22, the conflict between the traditional Igbo society and the new colonial forces intensifies. Reverend Smith, a strict and intolerant missionary, replaces the more accommodating Mr. Brown. Reverend Smith’s approach leads to increased tension, culminating in the desecration of a sacred Igbo shrine by Enoch, a zealous convert.
Reverend Smith is portrayed as rigid and uncompromising, in stark contrast to Mr. Brown, who was more understanding and respectful of Igbo traditions. Smith’s refusal to engage with the local culture exacerbates existing tensions, as he encourages his converts to be more confrontational.
Enoch’s act of unmasking an egwugwu, a revered ancestral spirit, symbolizes a direct attack on Igbo beliefs and customs. This provocative act is a turning point in the novel, highlighting the cultural clash and setting the stage for further conflict between the villagers and the colonial forces.
The villagers are outraged by the desecration of their sacred traditions. In a bid to restore their honor and maintain social order, the egwugwu, representing the clan’s spirits, destroy the church that Enoch and the missionaries built. This act of defiance underscores the deep-seated resistance to colonial influence.
Chapter 22 delves into themes of cultural conflict, the clash between tradition and change, and the impact of colonialism on indigenous societies. It also explores the consequences of religious intolerance and the struggle to preserve cultural identity in the face of external pressures.