This shows that society respects success and effort. Their system is fair, and every man earns his place through labor and courage.
Strong but Flexible Beliefs: The Igbos believe in the gods, spirits, and ancestors. Yet, their religion is not blind or cruel. They listen to the Oracle, respect the Earth goddess Ani, and celebrate festivals with joy. They also learn from mistakes. When someone breaks the law, the priest punishes him to save peace. In one part, Ezeudu warns Okonkwo,
“That boy calls you father. ... Bear no hand in his death.”
This advice shows the moral depth in their religion. Their system values both power and mercy.
Social Harmony and Human Values: The Igbo culture teaches cooperation and brotherhood. They support one another in farming, trade, and festivals. People believe in kindness and community. The narrator says,
“He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart.”
This means that before the coming of the white men, unity was the strength of Igbo life. They shared work, joy, and sorrow. They respected family ties and neighborly love. This balance made their culture peaceful and humane.
Readiness to Adapt and Change: Achebe shows that Igbo culture is not closed or stubborn. It welcomes new ideas when needed. The clan learns lessons from events and changes slowly. When missionaries come, some people listen and think. Even leaders like Obierika question old customs and compare them with new thoughts. The narrator says,
“It was like beginning life anew without the vigor and enthusiasm of youth.”
This reflects the pain of change but also the hope for renewal. Their willingness to think shows growth and flexibility.
Weakness and Need for Reform: Achebe does not hide the faults of the Igbo society. Sometimes customs become harsh. Okonkwo’s beating of his wife during the Week of Peace shows misuse of tradition. The narrator says,
“Okonkwo was ruled by one passion—to hate everything that his father Unoka had loved.”
This blind pride causes suffering. The killing of Ikemefuna and the rejection of Nwoye also show the failure of extreme ideas. These weaknesses prove that even a strong culture needs change and reform.
From the light of the above discussion, it is clear that Igbo culture is living, active, and capable of change. It has its good values and also its faults. Achebe presents the Igbos as human, not perfect or primitive. Their traditions give them identity, and their openness gives them growth. The culture moves, learns, and adapts. So, it is fair to say that Achebe’s Igbo society is truly dynamic and full of life.
Continue Reading
Subscribe to access the full content
Upgrade to Premium