Published Paper Details:

Chinua Achebe's seminal novel Things Fall Apart (1958) provides a profound exploration of traditional Igbo society in pre-colonial Nigeria, with a particular focus on the rigid constructs of masculinity and gender roles. This research paper examines how expectations of masculinity within Igbo culture profoundly shape the protagonist Okonkwo's character, actions, and ultimate tragic fate. Drawing on themes of strength, aggression, and patriarchal dominance, the study analyzes Okonkwo's hyper-masculine persona as a reaction to his father's perceived weakness, illustrating how societal pressures lead to his isolation, exile, and suicide. The discussion extends to the broader implications of these gender dynamics, including the subjugation of women and the clash with colonial influences that exacerbate Okonkwo's downfall. The paper employs a qualitative methodology rooted in literary criticism, incorporating feminist and postcolonial perspectives to interpret the text. Findings reveal that while Igbo masculinity emphasizes physical prowess, titles, and yam cultivation as markers of manhood, it also harbours inherent contradictions, such as the reverence for female deities like the Earth Goddess, which Okonkwo's rigid adherence ignores, leading to his demise. Suggestions for future research include comparative studies with Achebe's later works or other African literature to trace evolving gender representations. This analysis underscores the novel's critique of toxic masculinity and its enduring relevance in contemporary discussions on gender equity.