Things Fall Apart

Other than the church, what did the white men bring to Umuofia? and Why does Obierika say it it too late for the Ibo to fight the white Missionaries? and Why does Obierika think "the white man is very clever"?

please help!!

Asked by
Last updated by jill d #170087
Answers 1
Add Yours
Best Answer

After the church is fully established, white colonists have a foot in the door, which they quickly takes advantage of. Colonial law and guns quickly follow the church; a courthouse is built, and a newly arrived district commissioner takes charge of imposing the law. The white man also brings trade, something that attracts the villagers. In addition to all the rest, a school is built, children are afforded an education, and the educated garner higher wages.

Obierika puts it succinctly: "The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart" (126-7).

Source(s)

Things Fall Apart