Things Fall Apart Ch. 5-7

Describe the Feast of the New Yam.

Answer explanation

The Feast of the New Yam was held yearly before the harvest. It honored the earth goddess, Ani, and the ancestral spirits of the clan. New yams were offered to these powers. The old yams of the previous year were disposed of. All cooking and serving utensils were washed. Yam foo-foo and vegetable soup were the main ceremonial dishes.

Who was Okonkwo’s favorite child, and what did he often say about the child?

Answer explanation

His favorite child was Ezinma, daughter of Ekwefi. He often said it was a shame she wasn’t a boy.

What unacceptable thing did Okonkwo do just before the Feast of the New Yam?

Answer explanation

He beat his second wife, Ekwefi, then fired his gun at her.

Who was Chielo, and why was she important?

Answer explanation

She was the priestess of Agbala, the Oracle of the Hills and the Caves.

What sport did the villagers enjoy watching during their feasting?

Answer explanation

They enjoyed watching the young men of the village wrestle.

What influence did Ikemefuna have on Nwoye?

Answer explanation

Ikemefuna acted as an elder brother. He made Nwoye feel grown up. Nwoye began acting more like a man.

How did Okonkwo feel about Ikemefuna’s influence on Nwoye?

Answer explanation

He was inwardly pleased, although he would not show it. He did, however, invite the boys to sit with him and told them stories of the land.

How did the villagers feel about the coming of the locusts, and what did they do about it?

Answer explanation

They were delighted to have the locusts. They caught as many a possible, roasted them, and ate them as a delicacy.

What did the village decide to do with Ikemefuna?

Answer explanation

The oracle decided that the villagers should kill him.

Who struck the last blow to Ikemefuna, and why?

Answer explanation

Okonkwo did, because he was afraid of being thought weak.