Question

Explain how the two characters are similar or different and connecting their relationship to what we learned about father-son relationships in things fall apart

Answer 1

This question is about "Things Fall Apart"

Answer and Explanation:

Unoka is Okonkwo's father, the two are the heads of their families and both die without honor, bringing shame to their tribes. This is the main similarity between them. However, the differences between them are more influential and highlighted in the novel.

Unoka has an aversion to violence, is unable to get involved in activities that involve blood and prefers to get involved in artistic activities that are not considered honorable for a man, who must be strong and promote the protection of his tribe and his family. Unoka is unable to promote neither the protection nor the well-being of his family, since he lives borrowing money and never pays his own debts, promoting his family's shame.

Okonkwo hates his father's behavior and decides to be a completely different man, becoming a strong warrior and an admirable farmer, who promotes the support and protection of his family. Okonkwo's aversion to his father shows how the discrepancy of goals and styles between parents and children can disintegrate the healthy and admirable relationship between them, promoting trauma and dissatisfaction between them.