formalism of the judgment of the egwugwu stands in sharp re-
lief. This pattern of alternation operates throughout the novel
to set forth the paradoxes and ironies of Okonkwo's world. The
flexibility of Umuofia allows room for Christianity, which in
turn contributes to the passing of the traditional ways by fulfill-
ing the needs which the inflexibility of Umuofia left unan-
swered. This technique of juxtaposition articulates the complex-
ities and contradictions of Umuofia, of Okonkwo, and the
dilemma which arises when both confront Christianity.

Paradox also emerges when we analyze Okonkwo as an
individual. Examining the series of extreme actions Okonkwo
takes to assert his manliness and control reveals that Okonkwo's
fatal gift is his predisposition to violence. He commits himself
with tragic intensity to becoming the champion of Umuofia's
heroic tradition. The very same qualities that establish
Okonkwo's greatness also lead to his isolation, his blindness and
his ruin. Okonkwo becomes the apotheosis of violent action
and as such ultimately destroys himself.

These essays are presented here to guide and enrich the
experience of reading Things Fall Apart, never to take the place
of reading the novel itself. We hope our insights bring the
reader back to Things Fall Apart to appreciate anew the tradi-
tional world of the Ibo people -- both what they experienced and
what they lost.

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