- Published: November 15, 2021
- Updated: November 15, 2021
- University / College: University of Texas at Austin
- Language: English
- Downloads: 39
One of the themes in Burmese days is imperialism. It can be defined as a certain type of governing entity that has its main aim in increasing its size, through acts of war or political bulling other countries to bow down to their rule of law. The book highlights the lives of Burmese natives who live under the mercy of British colonialists. It portrays this by using three main characters; U Po Kyin, a corrupt Burmese magistrate, Dr Veraswami a reputable Indian doctor and John Flory a European who in his circles is known to be of high prestige.
In the second reading, Things Fall Apart social disintegration is a key theme that is witnessed towards the end of the reading. The events that take place throughout the Igbo people contribute to the society falling apart. This reading brings into highlight how the rules and balances of the Igbo community are distorted by the arrival of missionaries who have come with a new type of religion. From the analysis of the reading we can see the importance of using subtle ways to contest decisions imposed on oneself in the case of Okonkwo whose perception of creating change must be as a result bloodshed.
Chinua Achebe illustrates the way forced change can inflict a sense of loss and betrayal not only to Okonkwo as an individual but to a whole community. The divide and conquer rule adopted by the white men tears the very fabric of that society as existing laws and practices no longer contribute to the well-being of the members.