Analysis of 'Arrow of God' by Chinua Achebe

In 'Arrow of God', characters play vital roles in portraying the cultural shift. Ezeulu, as the chief priest, is like a symbol of the Igbo's spiritual and social core. His pride in the traditional ways often clashes with the new colonial ideas. His family members, such as his sons, also add to the complexity. They are influenced by both the old teachings from their father and the allure of the new world brought by the colonizers. These characters together create a vivid picture of a society in turmoil.

In 'The Voter', Chinua Achebe explores themes of politics and corruption in a Nigerian village. The story shows how the power of voting can be manipulated. For example, the main character is faced with a difficult choice between his loyalty to a candidate and the potential benefits of voting for another. It's a story that reflects the complex social and political dynamics in African communities.

One of the key themes in 'Civil Peace' is the idea of post - war survival. Jonathan's attitude towards life after the civil war reflects this. He is grateful for the small things, like his bicycle and his family's well - being. The story also shows how the concept of 'civil peace' is not really a true peace. There are still underlying tensions and difficulties, as seen in the way Jonathan has to deal with the thieves at the end. It's a complex exploration of life after war.

The story also reflects on the idea of peace. It's not a grand, perfect peace but a 'civil peace' which still has underlying tensions. For example, the thieves who come to Jonathan's house at night represent the lingering lawlessness. Jonathan's response to them, by offering them the egg - rasher, shows his survival instinct and his understanding of the situation.

Chinua Achebe was highly critical of 'Heart of Darkness' due to its underlying racism. He pointed out how the novel depicted Africa as the 'other', a dark and savage place. Conrad's work presented Africans as primitive and less than human, which was a common view in the colonial era but was a distorted and unfair representation.

Another significant aspect of Achebe's novels is his use of language. He writes in English but incorporates elements of Igbo language and culture. This makes his works accessible to a wider audience while still maintaining the authenticity of the African context. His novels have had a profound influence on African literature and on how the world views Africa.

The works of Chinua Achebe often reveal deep truths within the realm of fiction. His writing is significant as it uses fictional stories set in African contexts to expose the complex social, cultural, and political realities. For example, in 'Things Fall Apart', he shows the impact of colonialism on African tribes, the disruption of traditional ways of life, and the clash of cultures. Through his fictional narratives, he brings to light the truth about African identity, history, and the human experience during a time of great change.

The most obvious main character is the madman himself. He is the central figure around which the story revolves, and his actions and thoughts drive the narrative.

The theme of identity can also be seen. The madman's state makes us question how individuals are defined within a society, especially in the context of a changing cultural landscape. As he behaves in ways that are considered abnormal, it forces the reader to think about what it means to be 'normal' in a particular cultural setting and how that affects one's sense of self.

One of his most famous novels is 'Things Fall Apart'.