Character Analysis of Okonkwo

In Things Fall Apart, a predominant concept is the consequences of European colonization has on African civilization. It deals with the social and psychological conflicts created by the invasion of the white man and his culture into the former self-contained world of African society, and the disarray of the African consciousness that has followed. Achebe shows the disintegration of the tribe, their 'falling apart'. Achebe parallels this in the rise and fall of Okonkwo, who represents the internal weaknesses within the native structure and the divided nature of Igbo society and culture. Thus, Okonkwo himself becomes a symbol of this disintegration. This is further developed when there's not only the weaknesses and mistakes of the hero, but also the weakness of the tribe, who despite their power among the local clans, cannot resist the colonizing effort. 

When the Europeans invade, Okonkwo is one of few who resist and he ends up dead at the end of the novel. His refusal is a form of resistance to conforming to the ways of the white man as well as a rejection of his own culture as he has made a terrible transgression in committing suicide and will not be buried in the warrior style that he deserved. In this way Okonkwo rejects his own tribe members for their cowardice and lack of support. He took his life when he realized he did not have any more power. Ironically, Okonkwo loses his standing in both value systems despite his life desire to be successful and recognized.