Things Fall Apart Novel Quiz 1

1.

The Cat, the greatest wrestler in the region, was unbeaten for seven years.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
The given statement states that "The Cat, the greatest wrestler in the region, was unbeaten for seven years." This implies that there was no wrestler who could defeat The Cat for a period of seven years. Therefore, the statement is true.

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2.

In "Things Fall Apart," __________ is Okonkwo's close friend who often acts as a voice of reason and tries to calm Okonkwo's temper.

Correct Answer
Obierika

Explanation
In "Things Fall Apart," Obierika is Okonkwo's close friend and serves as a voice of reason throughout the novel. Unlike Okonkwo, who is often driven by fear and anger, Obierika is thoughtful and contemplative. He questions some of the tribe's traditions and the actions of the colonizers, providing a more balanced perspective. His character highlights the contrast between rigid adherence to tradition and the potential for change and adaptation.

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3.

What does Unoka do with his money?

Correct Answer
Unoka buys gourds of palm wine and drinks with his neighbor

Explanation
Unoka spends his money on purchasing gourds of palm wine and enjoys drinking it together with his neighbor.

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4.

The harmattan is a dry wind that blows across West Africa from the north.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
The harmattan is indeed a dry wind that blows across West Africa from the north. It is a seasonal wind that typically occurs between November and March, bringing dry and dusty conditions to the region. The harmattan is known for its hot and hazy weather, low humidity, and the carrying of fine particles of dust, which can reduce visibility and cause respiratory problems. This wind is an important climatic feature in West Africa and has significant impacts on the environment, agriculture, and daily life in the region.

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5.

Why does Unoka sing to the kites?

Correct Answer
Unoka loves to sing a welcome to the birds, or kites, who return to the village from their long journey south.

Explanation
Unoka sings to the kites because he loves to welcome them back to the village after their long journey south. It is likely that Unoka finds joy in the return of the birds and sees it as a positive sign. Singing to the kites may also be a way for Unoka to connect with nature and express his appreciation for its beauty.

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6.

Why does Unoka enjoy playing music for the egwugwu, or the masqueraders who impersonate the ancestral spirits of the village?

Correct Answer
Unoka enjoys eating and drinking at the feasts.

Explanation
Unoka enjoys playing music for the egwugwu because it allows him to participate in the village's festivities and enjoy the food and drinks that are served during the feasts. Music is an integral part of these celebrations, and by playing the music, Unoka is able to immerse himself in the joyous atmosphere and indulge in the pleasures of the feast. It also gives him a sense of belonging and connection to his community, as he is actively contributing to the cultural traditions and rituals of the village.

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7.

What is the meaning of the proverb “He who brings kola brings life”? (p. 5)

Correct Answer
The kola nut is a symbol of hospitality and friendship.

Explanation
The proverb "He who brings kola brings life" means that offering a kola nut is a gesture of hospitality and friendship. In many African cultures, the kola nut is considered a sacred and important symbol. It is often presented to guests as a sign of welcome and goodwill. By bringing kola, one is bringing life in the form of warmth, friendship, and hospitality to others.

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8.

Why is Okonkwo ashamed of his father, Unoka?

Correct Answer
Okonkwo’s father has no titles; he is heavily in debt when he dies.

Explanation
Okonkwo is ashamed of his father, Unoka, because he does not have any titles and is heavily in debt at the time of his death. In the Igbo society, titles are a symbol of honor and prestige, and they are typically earned through accomplishments and success. Unoka's lack of titles reflects his inability to achieve success and recognition in his community. Additionally, being heavily in debt implies financial irresponsibility and a lack of stability, which further adds to Okonkwo's shame and disappointment in his father.

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9.

Okonkwo washes his hands of his father’s failures and becomes a leader in the community.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
Okonkwo's father was seen as a failure in their community, and Okonkwo was determined not to follow in his footsteps. He worked hard to establish himself as a successful and respected leader in the community, distancing himself from his father's failures. This is evident in Okonkwo's achievements, such as his wrestling victories, his accumulation of wealth, and his position as a warrior and clan leader. Therefore, it can be concluded that Okonkwo washes his hands of his father's failures and becomes a leader in the community.

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10.

Ikemefuna is offered to Umuofia by the neighboring village of Mbaino as a compensation in order to avoid war.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
The statement is true because in Chinua Achebe's novel "Things Fall Apart," Ikemefuna is indeed offered to Umuofia by the neighboring village of Mbaino as a compensation. This is done in order to prevent war between the two villages, as a way to resolve a conflict that arose when a Mbaino woman was killed in Umuofia. Ikemefuna is given to Umuofia as a peace offering, and he becomes a part of Okonkwo's household.

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