In a always-changing world, human beings yearn to be as comfortable as possible with their surroundings. Sometimes, getting used to a new idea can be a real pain, especially when it goes against something you believe. Nwoye's conversion to Christianity describes the modern view that people have on new ideas. The fact that the entire clan was shocked by Nwoye's decision clearly shows how people's initial feelings towards change are negative. Many of the worldwide laws of math and science we have today were originally rejected. However, as time goes on, people get accustomed to change.
The conversion of Nwoye also gives some insight on why many people choose to convert, whether it be in North America, Asia, Africa, or Europe. In the modern world, people change religion because another might appeal more to them. It's not really a matter of tradition and culture. It's simply a matter of finding benefits. Nwoye disliked his father's inability to put emotions aside when making decisions due to the great amount of honor Okonkwo had, and Nwoye obviously didn't want to get mistreated anymore. After this, Nwoye sought for change and this culture presented by white man became the change he was looking for.
I like your insight on Nwoye's conversion. I wrote about the same thing. Your thoughts on his conversion are something new. Do you think that Nwoye's conversion had something to do with Okonkwo's sucide?
ReplyDeleteYea, I hadn't really thought about that, but it's a possibility. After Okonkwo sees the village lose their "manliness" he doesn't really think they are worth dying for. He originally says he wants to take revenge, but as he realizes it's in vain, he takes his life.
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