In the novel Things Fall Apart, the entire world of Okonkwo falls apart. This includes the tribal society of his ancestors, his relationship with Nwoye, and Okonkwo's ability to control his destiny caused by a number of conflicts and variables. In effect this caused for Okonkwo, his village, and the Ibo people the collapse of their way of life and customs. .
The Ibo culture Okonkwo lived in was rich in tradition. Their customs and traditions were passed down from one generation to the next. These customs and traditions included their wrestling matches, the Week of Peace, elaborate funeral celebrations, and engagement parties. However, they were not able to resist the technology and religion of the Europeans. The missionaries quickly forced their religion and beliefs on the Ibo people. They incorporated their way of life into natives by building churches and hospitals. They also began to teach them how to read and write.
These additions quickly changed the way the people of Umofia conducted their daily routine. .
Okoknkwo badly wanted his son Nwoye to preserve the family after he dies. Throughout the novel he criticizes and abuses the boy because he is not as strong and does not display the characteristics of a man Okonkwo wishes him to. Although Ikemefuna had a positive effect on Nwoye, which pleased Okonkwo, after his death Nwoye questions his people's ways. When the missionaries come to Umofia Nwoye is captivated by the "poetry" of the new religion. He thus converts learning and adapting to the life of the missionaries. This move by Nwoye devastates Okonkwo. Okonkwo becomes filled with anger towards the missionaries blaming them for his son's conversion.
Okonkwo's passion to improve himself constantly, and earn respect among the tribe seems to be the main goal in his life. His anger and work ethic all protrude from his drive to be all he can be. However, he suffers some setbacks.
