Things Fall Apart is a famous novel by Chinua Achebe. It's an important work in world literature, but the book has also been banned--it discusses colonialism. Here are a few questions for study and discussion.
- What is important about the title: Things Fall Apart? Is there a reference in the novel that explains the title?
- What are the conflicts in Things Fall Apart? What types of conflict (physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional)?
- How does Chinua Achebe reveal character in Things Fall Apart?
- What are some themes in the story? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
- What are some symbols in Things Fall Apart? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
- Are the characters consistent in their actions? Are they fully developed characters? Are some characters more fully developed than others? How? Why?
- Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters persons you would want to meet?
- What is the central/primary purpose of the story? Is the purpose important or meaningful?
- Why is the novel so controversial? Do you think the book should be censored or banned?
- How essential is the setting to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
- What is the role of family and community in this novel?
- Does the story end the way you expected? How? Why?
- Would you recommend this novel to a friend?
