do you think Okonkow deserve his punishment and why
chapter 12 and 13
Things Fall Apart Questions
Join the discussion about Things Fall Apart by asking a new question or answering an existing question.
do you think Okonkow deserve his punishment and why
Based upon the beliefs and customs of the society in which Okonkwo lives, the punishment he receives is deserving. He broke the bonds of kinship first, with his participation in Ikemefuna's execution; the accidental shooting of Ezeudu is the "nail in the coffin," so to speak.
The following excerpt from Sparknotes explains further;
"Okonkwo’s punishment emphasizes the importance of strong, harmonious relations within the community. Although Obierika questions the harsh punishment that Okonkwo receives for such an accident, the punishment, in a way, helps stave off anger, resentment, and, ultimately, revenge. Despite the accidental nature of the death of Ezeudu’s son, it is understandable for Ezeudu’s close relatives to be angry with Okonkwo. The burning of Okonkwo’s compound displaces this anger onto his property, while Okonkwo’s exile separates him temporarily from the offended community. Over a period of seven years, any remaining anger and resentment from Ezeudu’s close relatives will dissipate, and the offender’s place in the community will be restored."
The following excerpt from Sparknotes explains further;
"Okonkwo’s punishment emphasizes the importance of strong, harmonious relations within the community. Although Obierika questions the harsh punishment that Okonkwo receives for such an accident, the punishment, in a way, helps stave off anger, resentment, and, ultimately, revenge. Despite the accidental nature of the death of Ezeudu’s son, it is understandable for Ezeudu’s close relatives to be angry with Okonkwo. The burning of Okonkwo’s compound displaces this anger onto his property, while Okonkwo’s exile separates him temporarily from the offended community. Over a period of seven years, any remaining anger and resentment from Ezeudu’s close relatives will dissipate, and the offender’s place in the community will be restored."
Source(s): http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/things/section5.rhtml
Join for free to answer this question.
