How Does Achebe Use Proverbs In Things Fall Apart

Chinua Achebe, in his novel Things Fall Apart, details the tradition and culture of the Igbo people, as well as the fear of change within their tradition by the white settlements. Achebe reveals both the tradition and challenge of tradition to the Igbo people through his use of proverbs, symbolism, and dialogue. His use of literary devices reveal how one’s tradition and culture can only be changed by the people of this culture. First, Achebe’s use of proverbs throughout the novel portray the language of the Igbo culture. They use proverbs for communications, folk tales, and lessons. To show gratitude for what his mother’s people have done for him during his exile, Okonkwo states “I cannot live on the bank of a river and wash my hands with spittle.” Through feats is how they show their thanksgiving and appreciation in the Igbo culture. Another proverb used is “a child cannot pay for its mother’s milk”; a tradition of Igbo people is to have a feast, not as a payback for all they’ve done for them, but to keep them united and together at all times-- these proverbs are their language.
Next, Achebe uses symbolism to emphasize the Igbo culture and the challenge of holding this culture. The slaughter of “three goats… and a number of fowls” symbolizes their sacrifice and appreciation of the feast. It also symbolizes how the Igbo people uphold this
The kinsmen share a speech stating “I fear for the younger generation, for you people.” The younger generation is not holding this tradition and bring division. The younger generation “do not understand how strong is the bond of the kinship,” The kinship being the blood relationship and unity. Unity within culture maintains control, if division is brought in people will go against each other. Yet, the younger generation have withdrawn from each other and instead against one another. Dialogue illuminates the Igbo culture and the importance of upholding