Index Harsh and domineering tone Fear of failure and weakness Resistance to change Conclusion The novel "Things Fall Apart" tells the story of Okonkwo, a respected leader in Igbo society who struggles to adapt to the changes brought by colonialism. Throughout the novel, Okonkwo's tone and language reflect his internal struggles, his cultural beliefs, and, ultimately, his tragic downfall. This essay will examine Okonkwo's tone as a reflection of his character, beliefs, and interactions with others in the novel. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Harsh and Domineering Tone Okonkwo's tone in the novel is often harsh and domineering, reflecting his desire to assert his masculinity and uphold traditional Igbo values. He is known for his short temper and tendency to resort to violence to maintain control over his family and community. For example, when Okonkwo's son Nwoye shows interest in Christian missionaries, Okonkwo's tone is full of anger and disappointment. He sees Nwoye's actions as a betrayal of their cultural heritage and reacts with hostility, using harsh language and physical punishment to try to force Nwoye to fall into line. Furthermore, Okonkwo's tone towards his wives and children is often harsh and demanding, reflecting his belief in the importance of discipline and obedience within the family unit. He expects absolute loyalty and respect from his family members, and his tone conveys his frustration and anger when they fail to meet his expectations. This harsh tone creates tension and conflict within the family, leading to a breakdown in communication and understanding between Okonkwo and his loved ones. Fear of Failure and Weakness Despite his harsh exterior, Okonkwo's tone also reveals a deep fear of failure and weakness. He is haunted by the memory of his father, Unoka, who in the eyes of the community was seen as a lazy and irresponsible man. Okonkwo's tone is often filled with a sense of insecurity and vulnerability, as he is constantly worried about living up to his society's expectations and avoiding the same fate as his father. This fear of weakness and failure drives Okonkwo to overcompensate by adopting a tone of aggression and dominance in his interactions with others. He believes that showing any sign of vulnerability or emotion is a sign of weakness, so he masks his true feelings behind a facade of strength and control. However, this facade eventually collapses when Okonkwo's tone betrays his inner turmoil and self-doubt, leading to his tragic downfall. Resistance to Change Okonkwo's tone also reflects his struggle to navigate the changing world around him as colonialism begins to encroach on his traditional way of life. As the influence of British missionaries grows stronger in the Igbo community, Okonkwo's tone becomes increasingly desperate and defiant. He sees the colonizers as a threat to his culture and values, and his tone is full of anger and resistance towards their presence. Okonkwo's stubborn refusal to adapt to changing circumstances ultimately leads to his downfall, as his tone becomes increasingly isolated and alienated from those around him. His inability to see beyond his own pride and beliefs blinds him to the changing realities of the world, and his tone reflects the tragic consequences of his stubbornness and inflexibility. Please note: this is just an example. Get a personalized card from our now,.