Every culture has many different values, views and outlooks on life. In Achebe's book, Things Fall Apart, the importance of family are strongly expressed. This story is about an Ibo tribe and how they relate and deal with the British trying to colonize Nigeria, their homeland. During this difficult time, each of the three main groups view the role of family differently.
The first group of people, the Nigerian household, does not have a very strongly linked family. Okonkwo's family consists of several wives, and children to whom he gives little attention. Each spouse and her children live in separate homes and this results in less time spent together. At one time during the story, Okonkwo loses his temper while in a disagreement with his second wife: "Without further argument Okonkwo gave her a sound beating and left her and her only daughter weeping." This shows not only Okonkwo's abrupt temper and anger, but also his lack of respect for his wife and daughter. Although Okonkwo provides food and shelter for his family, his disrespect results in friction among the family as a whole.
The second group, the Nigerian village, is considered a close family. In this village called Umuofia, the people work together to keep peace in their and look out for the individual families as well. This culture has many practices and customs that bring the villages closer together throughout the novel. For example, the tradition and rituals of sharing Kola Nuts, Peace Week, and the New Yam Festival are all celebrated with great joy while spending time with other villagers. This group thinks of the family as being an important part of their lives and maintains a benevolent family-like society.
Finally, the third group is the British or Christian culture, which also has great family views. These missionaries go to Nigeria with the goal to spread their religion. This religion teaches that all the people of the world are children of God.
