Read Part Three (all of it) and take notes again for a quiz on Friday over Part One and Part Three. You may use your notes.
Post #2: Post two quotes that show the impact of imperialism on the African villages. Analyze whether the impact is positive or negative and why. Cite as usual.
No grammar or spelling mistakes and an overused quote will not be accepted after the sixth use!
1)"And so he built a school and a little hospital in Umuofia" (Achebe 181)
ReplyDeleteThe impact of Imperialism on the African villages were positive. Mr. Brown(he), built a school in and created a hospital in the village. This was a positive impact from imperialism because the imperialists were willing to create a school to educate the people and also a hospital to treat the injured. This was positive because the imperialists are helping the villages with education and health.
2)"Nobody else spoke, but they noticed the long stripes on Okonkwo's back where the warder's whip had cut into his flesh" (Achebe 199)
The impact of imperialism on the African villages was negative. When Okonkwo came back to the village after being taken hostage(196), he had sustain injuries of slashes on his back. Imperialism was negative because the white men, or imperialists oppresses them and injure them to get what they want. Imperialism was negative because it injured people and oppresses them
Xavier, you have a strong grasp of the situation of the story, which is good and I commend you on that. I just believe that on your second piece of analysis, you should what the imperialist want, or plan to get out of beating the natives more. For example you mention Okonkwo getting beating by the warder's whip, we understand that's bad, just why would he do it? Probably superiority, so you should mention that as well.
DeleteI see, thank you for informing me about that. I'll put more context in the future!
Delete1) “I will only have a son who is a man, who will hold his head up among my people. If any one of you prefers to be a woman. Let him follow Nwoye now while I am alive so that I can curse him. If you turn against me when I am dead I will visit you and break your neck” (Achebe 172).
ReplyDeleteImperialism has negatively impacted the African villages. Nwoye has left Okonkwo who is filled with hatred to his son who has supposedly left him for a different culture and path. He curses those who leave him and hope that they will die. Imperialism has caused a division from traditional villagers and those who doubt their culture. This is a negative impact on the African village because it shows unhealthy human nature. The village changed from a cheerful and upbeat whole community to a content or resentful divided community. This shows how certain villagers have low adaptability to sudden change. The villagers who have low adaptability chose to plot revenge, like Okonkwo or have already given up such as Obierika (176). Imperialism negatively impacted African villages by splitting families and villagers apart.
2) “A few months in it were enough to make one a court messenger or even a court clerk. Those who stayed longer became teachers; and from Umuofia laborers went forth into the Lord’s vineyard” (Achebe 181-182)
Imperialism impacted African villages positively. The offer of free educational systems was something new to the African village. Mr. Brown encouraged local villagers to send children and even adults to learn in school. This was a way for Mr. Brown to peacefully convert villagers to Christianity unlike the violence used in the war in Abame (Achebe 175). The chance to learn reading and writing gave villagers a new way to advance in the hierarchy chain. This impacted the African villages positively by presented giving those who wanted to go higher on the hierarchy chain or a better job a new path.
1) “The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed in Umuofia” (Achebe 179).
ReplyDeleteImperialism caused a positive impact on Africa. After the white missionaries came into Umuofia, they created a new religion which allowed others to have a variety of beliefs. This was a positive impact because not only can Umuofians believe in Umuofian goddess, they can also believe in one god the white missionaries introduced. After the white missionaries invaded Umuofia, they built trading systems that allows everyone to exchange different foods and valuables. This is a positive impact because not everyone has what they need. Since there’s this trading system, people can trade for items such as yams and other crops that they don’t have. Trading system allows Umuofia’s economy to grow. The resources can be from people to people. This is how imperialism had a positive impact on Africa.
2) “The six men were handcuffed and led into the guardroom” (Achebe 194).
Imperialism on Africa had a negative impact. When the white missionaries came to Umuofia, they had a discussion with six Umuofian men. They were discussing about the incident where a white missionary committed the “greatest crime” in Umuofia (186). Instead of discussing about what happened, the white missionaries ordered men to handcuff the six men. This was a negative impact on Umuofia because their leaders (the six men) were capture for telling the white missionaries the truth of the incident. The leaders of Umuofia didn’t do anything wrong and the white missionaries decided to arrest them. This was obviously unfair and injustice. Therefore, imperialism on Africa had a negative impact.
I think you mistook the context. The six man were captured because of the church burned down. The great crime that Encoh did, did not influenced District commisioner to arrest the six man. The reason was because Mr. Smith protected Encoh from his death in name of Christanity even though 'great crime' result in death. And as a result Mr. Smith proted the 'great crime', people burned down church of Mr. Smith (build by Mr. Brown) thus six men leader was arrest in process.(191)
Delete"Their clan was completely empty. Even the sacred fish in their mysterious lake have fled and the lake has turned the color of blood" (Achebe 140).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact on the African village of Umoufia. When a white man came into the village everyone was suspicious of him. The god said that he would destroy the village and that more people were coming. the people took precaution and killed the man. A couple days later the rest of the people came and then killed everyone in the village. This is a negative impact because a lot of the people died in the village.
"the missionaries had come to Umoifia. They had built their church there, won a handful of converts and were already sending evangelists to the surrounding towns and villages" (143).
Imperialism had a negative impact on the African village of Umoifia. The white men that took over were trying to convert people to Christianity and opening new churches. This was a threat to the traditions of the umoifian people. If Christianity continues, the culture can eventually wear off, and thier traditions would no longer exist.
Please specify how do you know that the white men were trying to convert people to Christianity. Why can't it be any other religion?
DeleteAddel, you have used quotes from part 2, while this post is only on part 3.
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ReplyDelete1)”More people came to learn in his school...” (Achebe 182).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive impact on the African village. Imperialism is when a country takes authority over another country to influence their economic and political system. In this quote, “his” is referred to Mr.Brown. Mr.Brown, a white man, was able to persuade the people of Umuofia to send their children and slaves to school by begging them (181). This benefited the people of the Umuofia village because before imperialism, children did not go to school. But after imperialism, children were able to go to school for a better education. Imperialism had a positive impact on the African village because now, the people of Umuofia are able to get a better education.
2) “There were still many who saw these new institutions as evil….” (Achebe 183).
Imperialism impacted Umuofia negatively. In this quote, “who” is referred as the Africans, or natives, and “new institutions” is referred to the new government, trading stores, etc. that the foreigners created. The natives did not approve the new organization the foreigners created, that’s why they referred it as “evil”. They did not approve the new organizations because it caused the many of the clans in Umuofia to fall apart (183). Imperialism had a negative impact on Umuofia because the new institutions, created by the foreigners, caused the clans of Umuofia to break apart.
Your explanations for both of the quotes were straight to the point. I understood it well without any confusion. Well done!
DeleteI agree with Teresa you did a great job! Your analysis was clear and you stated how it was negative or postive. And you added context to allow your evidence to flow. Good Job!
Delete"One of the greatest crimes a man could commit was to unmask an egwugwu in public, or to say or do anything which might reduce its immoral prestige in the eyes of the uninitiated. And that was what Enoch did." (Achebe 186)
ReplyDeleteIn this section, the white missionaries have practically taken over Umuofia with their culture and religion. One of their followers, Enoch, went against the Umuofians by unmasking the egwugwu. This was a serious offense in Umuofia. Imperialism has a negative impact on Umuofia in this case. Enoch was a native Umuofian. by unmasking teh egwugwu, he is showing a sort of resentment for Umuofia. He's going against the culture he originated from. This is negative because imperialism is causing natives to go against ech other. It is splitting a culture in half into those who agree with imperialism and those who do not.
"The court messengers did not like to be called Ashy-Buttocks, and they beat the men." (Achebe 175)
As the white missionaries are in Umuofia, they continue to spread their culture and industrialize the village. One was they did this is by setting up a court system. Along with the court system were curt messengers. These people took messages from the court house to the public. They had authority over the Umuofians. Imperialism has a negative effect in this case because the court messengers are abusing their authority over the Umuofians. The Umuofians did not do anything that would really allow the court messenger's violence to be justifiable. They are trying to keep the Umuofians in place using violence, which causing the Umuofians to resent them more. It does not solve any problems.
From your first explanation, there are a few grammatic mistakes. Periods on the wrong place, and misspelled words.
DeleteThanks Teresa. I'm not sure if there's a way to edit it but thanks for pointing it out. I was probably typing too fast.
DeleteI like where you're going and your first quote and analysis was amazing! Nice job.
ReplyDelete1. “Our own men and sons have joined the ranks of the stranger. They have joined his religion and they held to uphold his government.” (Achebe 176)
ReplyDeleteThis is having a negative impact on the people of the African villages. After Okonkwo’s exile from the village because of a gun firing off in his home, killing a boy which is illegal in the village, he returns to the village and sees what has happened in his village. By having more and more villagers join the two foreigners, they are being taught the ways of Christianity and losing more of their own culture. This is negative since before the foreigners got to the village, the people were into their native traditions like the New Yam Festival and a Week of Peace which the people celebrated. However, with the villagers going more towards the teachings of Christianity, they are going to follow more of the foreigners’ teachings causing to lose a lot of their own, which is like a betrayal to their own people. Achebe is saying that during imperialism, more and more countries were being established by the British, to join what they believe in and followed their ways to live because the British were the ones who were most superior with their technology and location.
2. “Whenever Mr. Brown went to that village he spent long hours with Akunna in his obi talking through an interpreter about religion.” (Achebe 179)
Imperialism is having a positive impact on the African villages. Akunna is one of the great men in the village who talks to Mr. Brown about religion. During one discussion with Mr. Brown, Akunna opens his eyes about war and education since it is needed for protection and influences Mr. Brown to build a school and share his teachings with the children as well as a little hospital to help people heal from injuries. (181)This has a positive impact on the village since before, the village children did not have much of an education and most of the time worked with the crops. By Akunna having these talks with Mr. Brown, it showed him that more and more people need to have knowledge like Akunna in order to survive and to show them what to do since there were many mishaps happening in the village before like deaths and war. Therefore, imperialism had a positive impact on the village because it helps make education be noticed and help the children as they grow older to know what to do to survive.
For your first analysis, second sentence, I understand what you're trying to say, but I feel like it's confusing to read. You should break up that sentence into smaller, and simpler sentences.
DeleteDuring the old man's funeral, an accidental gunshot came from Okonkwo's home. The gunshot hits a boy's heart and kills him during the memorial. This was an illegal action since it was during a funeral and was consider bad that a death would happen. For this action, Okonkwo was to be exiled for seven years. After Okonkwo’s exile from the village, he returns to the village and sees what has happened in his village.
Delete"You can worship your own god. It is good that a man should worship the gods and the spirits of his father" ( Achebe 190).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a postive effect on the African villages. When the imperialists( the white people) took control over the native's land, they used part of it to make churches (182). At, that time chrisitianity was spreading. The new religion and government and the trading stores were very much in the people's eyes and mind (182-183). This had a postive effect on the African village because it allowed them to convert to christianity and allow them to learn about the religion. It allowed them to gain knowledge about God too. But, it gave a greater benefit, because they were allowed to follow the religion of Chrisitianity or follow their own religion. They were not forced to convert, so they had freedom of religion.
"It seemed as if the very soul of the tribe wept for a great evil that was coming-its own death" ( Achebe 187).
Imperialism has had a negative effect on the African village. During the annual worship of the earth godess, Enoch had killed an ancestral spirit. He has killed it by falling on a man that was part of the worship and tore off his mask. In an annual worship people were not allowed to see the persons face under the mask, they were suppose to keep the mask on the during the whole worship. And Umuofia was thrown into confusion (186). Later on that night, the Mother of the Spirits started to weep for her murdered son ( which was the spirit Enoch murdered). This had a negative effect on the African village by sending out evil souls. They had never heard of a weep like this, it was strange and a fearful sound that signified death coming upon the African village.
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DeleteThis is really NEAT!!! Nice job! I loved how you included, or connected to freedom of religion. However, I think that you should try to connect your second quote to imperialism. You only stated that the unmasking of the spirits was negative, but never connected it to imperialism. You kind of included a little context.
Delete"But apart from the church,the white men had also brought a government.They had built a court where the District Commisioner judged cases in ignorance"(Achebe 174).
ReplyDeleteBefore the white men established a government,they had built a Christian church which divided the community of Umuofia as well as their families.The church had given misfortune to Ibo society because they found it difficult to adapt to new change, especially a new religion. However,the British also set up a government which was another major change by the white men.This impact of imperialism was a negative impact on the Umuofian community.The reason for this claim is because the white men had been too strict and arrogant about their form of government. For example,Oierika,Okonkwos friend,tells Okonkwo about a man who was hanged by he government because of an argument over a piece of land.The government also subdues the Ibo people without demanding the missionaries to learn about Ibo culture such as language and tradiion.Nevertheless,the government did have some positive effects of imperialism on Ibo culure such as when prisoners had thrown away their twins and some who molested the Christians,but,the impact of imperialism on Ibo people still had been more negative than positive.
"And so he built a school and a little hospital in Umuofia"(Achebe 181).
Although Okonkwo viewed he clan as a chaos,many appreciated most of the Christians,especially Mr.Brown.Mr.Brown,a Christian missionary,respects the Igbo people and is willing to make an atempt to understand their beliefs.He also discusses religious beliefs with a clan leader of Umuofia named Akunna.So when Mr.Brown learns about Igbo beliefs, he decides to build a school for people to read and write and a hospital.British imperialism has impacted Ibo society in a posiive way.Children can now have an education and it would be beneficial for them to be educated as future leaders so they can rule.A hospital is also a beneficial impact because people can be treated and medicines are introduced into the village.Therefore,British imperialism had a positive impact on Umuofian people.
In your first quote and analysis, I loved how you stated the reason that this impact was negative on the people of Umuofia, and I liked how you connected it to imperialism. Nice job!
Delete"The white men is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one" (Achebe 176).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact on the Umuofian tribe. The white men, the British, are manipulating the people. In order to stay in Umuofia, they pretended to be peaceful(176). However, when they gained control, their evil side appeared. The Umofians are negatively impacted by the British because the Umuofian tribe is breaking apart. The British caused the Umuofians to fight with each other. This shows that Imperialism did not benefit the Umuofians. Instead, it damaged relationships and caused separation.
Mr. Brown said, "You are afraid of Chukwu. In my religion Chukwu is a loving Father and need not be feared by those who do His will" (Achebe 181).
Imperialism impacted Okonkwo and his village in a positive way. Mr. Brown, a British man, is teaching Umuofians about his god, Chukwu, and how his religion views Chukwu. Since he is British, he will obviously have different beliefs of Chukwu. His religion views Chukwu as "a loving father and need not be afraid" (181). This religious view could impact Umuofians in a positive way because they do not need to be afraid their god anymore. Umuofians do not need to be careful of their actions, and feel afraid that a little mistake would result in harsh punishment. Mr. Brown has taught Umuofians that their god is actually there to protect them, instead of just judging their mistakes and actions. This will allow Umuofians to relax and enjoy their time on Earth. Mr. Brown’s influence is beneficial to Umuofians because Umuofians can now view Chukwu in a positive light.
Your first explanation was great, it connected to how imperialism had a negative impact.
DeleteFor your second explanation, when you said "Since he is British, he will obviously have different beliefs of Chukwu." I was confused when you said that. Mr. Brown has different beliefs on Chukwu? I thought Mr. Brown only believes in Chukwu.
Sorry, i meant that the British has different beliefs of Chukwu compared to the Africans. The British views their a god a certain way, while the Africans views their god a different way. What i am trying to say is that even though they both believed in the same god, Chukwu, they each believe that their god is capable of different things. I'm sorry, and I hope you understand now. :)
Delete"The white man's court has decided that it should belong to Nnama's family, who had given much money to the white man's messengers and interpreter" (Achebe 176).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact on the African village. The white men (British) establishes in Africa. They build courts and a system of laws that weren't justice. Wealthy Africans "had given much money to the white man's messengers and interpreter" in order to escape from crime. This isn't benefitting the people living in villages because many were poor. Poor people weren't able to afford paying a lot of money just for British people so they can get away from what they committed. Yet, the British men did create a court which was a positive impact since there was never such thing before the British imperialized Africa. Africans were able to experience new creations in life that they never experienced before. Still, even though they create a court, there wasn't justice? Africans aren't getting the justice they need. This isn't ethical to many poor Africans living in villages. Therefore, imperialism had a negative impact on the African village because of the injustice influence on them.
"One of the great men in that village was called Akunna and he had given one of his sons to be taught by the white man's knowledge in Mr. Brown's school" (Achebe 179).
Imperialism had a positive impact on the African village. After the British establishment on Africa, they industrialized the entire continent. A British man, Mr. Brown, was a man who helped improve the lives of the Africans. He had his own "school" and asks Africans to come. This was the first time that education occurred in Africa. Back then, Africans were rarely educated and uncivilized. All Africans did was farming and earning money. Now, people were able to open up to a variety of jobs, other than farming, and learn how to read and write. The indigenous people had to learn how to speak English in order to talk to the white men (British). The indigenous people who learned the "white man's knowledge in Mr. Brown's school" became "court messengers or even court clerk "and "teachers "(Achebe182). Being educated was a privilege that the Africans had because they could learn a new language that can help them. Thus, imperialism had a positive impact on the African village.
Your quotes and analyis are good but in your second analysis you shouldn't say "uncivilized." Ms. Karvunis said that you shouldn't use it because it is no ones right to say who is civil and uncivilized.
DeleteAlso you said in the first analysis that imperialism has had a negative impact because the court messengers were ripping people off. So if the people are going to school and becoming court messengers or court clerk who are injustice doesn't that make the schools bad. Doesn't that really show that imperialism was bad?
Sophie, I really love how you used "indigenous" as your diction choice instead of "native". Nice vocabulary word from History :) Your ANA is satisfactory(:
Delete1. “Then the tragedy of his son had occurred… ‘You have all seen the great abomination of your brother. Now he is no longer my son or your brother. I will only have a son who is a man, who will hold his head up among my people. If any one of you prefers to be a women let him follow Nwoye now.” (Achebe 172)
ReplyDeleteThis quote shows the impact of imperialism on the African villages because the White Missionaries are spreading their cultural beliefs and rules. Okonkwo didn't like the way these people took his sons mind and changed his belief into theirs. Okonkwo didn't like the fact that his son wasn't considered a man any more. This impact is negative because the men of Umuofia are supposed to stand up together through the obstacles that hit them along the way. They are supposed to cope with the challenges. However, since those White Missionaries came, everyone changed, from Okonkwo’s point of view. Imperialism has separated the people of Umuofia from one another.
2. “But apart from the church, the white men had also brought a government. They had built a court where the District Commissioner judged cases in ignorance. He had court messengers who brought men to him for trail.” (Achebe 174).
This quote shows the impact of imperialism on the African villages because the White men had come into Umuofia to spread their ideas, such as their religion and their way of marketing. However, when they first came, they found a piece of land where their church was to be built. This impact is negative on the people of Umuofia because they worshiped wooden statues that had no value. The people of Umuofia didn't believe that there was only one God that took care of everything, such as the harvest season. Nevertheless, this impact was positive on the White men because they knew that they can spread their new cultures and ideas to these people because it involved money. These White men brought more money to Umuofia.
I am kind of confused with the second qoute and analysis. I don't understand how the churches have had a negative impact (second analysis). How did "the white man's" government and District Commissioner judged have a negative impact on the African villages (second quote).
DeleteIt had a negative impact on the villagers because some of them, like Okonkwo and some leaders, didn't agree with what these White Missionaries were doing. These leaders didn't want to start a new religion and leave their own. They believed they had the right religion. Even though they disagreed with the imperialism that was going on, they were quiet about it at first, and then Okonkwo kills the messenger.
DeleteI agree with Mariam. Samaher I think you have too many pronouns which is one reason it is confusing. You can state who is "they", so readers will understand who you are talking about. And try to use context which allows your writing flow and give information to the reader about what is happening.
Delete1) “Then the tragedy of his first son had occurred. At first it appeared as if it might prove too great for his spirit” (Achebe 172).
ReplyDeleteAfter the white missionaries came into Umuofia, Okonkwo’s eldest son Nwoye left the family for pursue of the new religion, Christianity. Okonkwo was very upset about his son’s decision, that Okonkwo no longer consider Nwoye as a son. Okonkwo felt Nwoye had betrayed the family, betrayed the culture for something Okonkwo did not trust. This was a negative impact of imperialism, which it broke apart families like Okonkwo’s family. Imperialism made sons and fathers turned against each other until they no longer consider each other part of the family. It was a “tragedy” that imperialism broke apart families and yet there was nothing could be done to fix the situation.
2) “And it was not long before the people began to say that the white man’s medicine was quick in working” (Achebe 181).
The white missionaries had built a hospital within Umuofia and brought in a more advanced medical treatment from their mother country. This was a positive impact of imperialism, which could lead to a healthier and better life for the Umuofians. Previously, the Umuofians did not have medicine that would work fast. For example, when a child has fever, the Umuofians could only use herbs and the method of wrapping a blanket around the child to cure him or her. Now that the white men brought in fast working medicine, people with any sickness could be cured easily and fast. People would not have to suffer through sicknesses, and would definitely get better faster with the advanced medicine.
I love your analysis, but for the first one, you should include a sentence at the beginning of your analysis to state your claim.
Delete"They had built a court where the District Commissioner judged cases in ignorance...They guarded the prison, which was full of men who had offended against the white man's law. Some of those prisoners had thrown away their twins..."(Achebe 174)
ReplyDeleteThis shows that imperialsm had a positive impact on African tribes because the white imperialist built a prison where men where thrown in jail because they had "thrown away their twins" because twins were thought to be evil. This is positive because it is morally wrong to throw barley born childern in a forest to die just because they are though to be evil. A child is innocent when it is born because it didn't commit any crime and it is unfair that a childs life is taken away from them.
"More people came to learn in his school...not long before the people began to say that the white man's medicine was quick...A few months in it were enough to make one a court messenger..."(Achebe 182)
This shows that imperialism had a positive affect on African tribes because many people are going to school;to learn to read and write. The longer a person is in school, the better the job they have. Also, people from all ages went to school to learn and some could work on their farms in the morning while doing to school in the afternoon(Achebe 180). This is a positive because everyone is getting an education which is important.
Throwing twins in the forest for them to die is a positive impact on Africa? Woah do you mean negative impact?
DeleteTeresa, I think she is trying to say that it was positive for men/women to be thrown in jail, since they threw their children away. Overall, your analysis looks good but you should work on your spelling, run-on sentences, and adding punctuation's to where they are needed.
DeleteI agree with both Teresa and Veronica. I understood that Migulina was trying to say it was postive that the men/ women that threw their children away was put in jail. But, when you first read this it is confusing, I thought like Teresa at first. Migulina, you should work on organization so it will be clear for readers to understand.
Delete“’Does the white man understand our custom about land?’
ReplyDelete‘How can he when he does not even speak our tongue? But he says that our customs are bad; and our own brothers who have taken up his religion also says that our customs are bad’” (Achebe 176).
Obierika was explaining to Okonkwo how the village had changed while he was gone for seven years. Okonkwo doesn’t understand all these new customs and how the people just let the white man come without a fight. The quote shows that imperialism has had a negative impact on the African villages. The British, “the white man”, came into Africa and told the people, who have been practicing their religion for hundreds of years, that customs are wrong. They tried to change the Africans but the British don’t even know their language. They are trying to brainwash the people by making them think that everything they have been doing is wrong and that to their religion is the right way to follow. Also the British have made brothers go against each other. The British did this because they knew that if the people of Umuofia decided to attack they would have to kill their brothers, who are Christians and now follow the white man’s religion. They would turn families against each others to keep on staying in Africa. Thus, showing that imperialism has had a negative effect on the African villages.
“In this way Mr. Brown learned a good deal about the religion of the clan and he came to the conclusion that frontal attack on it would not succeed. And so he built a school and a little hospital in Umuofia. He went from family to family begging people to send their children to his school…If Umuofia failed to send her children to the school, strangers would come from other places to rule them” (Achebe 181).
Akunna and Mr. Brown were arguing about God. Akunna claimed that there are many Gods but Mr. Brown says there is one. After the conversation Mr. Brown came “to the conclusion that frontal attack on it would not succeed.” This may seem as if imperialism has had positive impact because he made schools and hospitals but he didn’t do it to benefit the people of Umuofia. Mr. Brown did it to make people that his religion is right and should be followed and not the religion of the clan. Also Mr. Brown tried to seem as if the British coming to Africa was a good thing by saying that if they don’t send the children to school another place will come and try to rule them. Imperialism has had a negative impact in Africa because they are brainwashing the people into thinking that the British are their saviors and the other places will ruin them. Mr. Brown is also trying to push them by making them think that there is one God and that Christianity is what they should believe, which can cause controversy just like in the first quote.
1)”In this way Mr. Brown learned a great deal...and so he built a school...in Umuofia” (Achebe 181)
ReplyDeleteImperialism impacted the African viallage in a positive way. Mr. Brown built a school and then was able to convince the people of the village young and old, to come to school so that they can learn. After he convinced them they came to the school which then helped them get a better education. This then helped the villagers become something more, for example those who stayed longer became teachers (Achebe 182). This then also helped establish more schools for more people to learn and have an education so they too could become something more.
2)”He had just sent Okonkwo’s son, Nwoye, who was now called Isaac...” (Achebe 182).
Imperialism impacted the African Village in a negative way. Imperialism started to change the culture of the village. In the beginning of the book you hear the names of the characters that have names that are kind of hard to pronounce. Then you can see that over the course of time by the end of the book you start to see white names like Brown, James, Isaac, Smith, etc…because of the imperialist who came to the village. Even Nwoye has changed his name to a white man’s name, Isaac (Achebe 182). Christianity then also started to spread around since more churches started to be established, changing the minds and religion of some people (Achebe 183).
Check your spelling. VILLAGE in the first sentence.
Delete(1) "They guarded the prison, which was full of men who had offended against the white man's law...they were beaten in the prison by the kotma and made to work every morning clearing the government compound and fetching wood for the white Commissioner and the court messengers. Some of these prisoners were men of title who should be above such mean occupation." (175)
ReplyDeleteThis quote shows that imperialism had a negative effect on the African villages. After the white men (Imperialists) arrived in Umuofia, people were thrown in to prison if they did something the kotma (court messengers) did not approve of. The people of Umuofia were constantly beaten in prison by the white men. Imperialism made the Africans work under the white men and become their slaves. Prisoners had to work for the government and the court messengers every morning. This is negative because even though these people strongly disagreed with the new laws created by the government, they were forced to work for them. The people's freedom was completely taken away and they no longer could follow their own customs without being punished. In addition, the Africans were not given any freedom to practice their own traditions and religion. Even though the Umuofians were not Christian, they were put in prison for violating Christian rules. Among the prisoners were men of high title that are normally treated with respect and appreciation. However, after the white people imperialized Umuofia, those men lost their power and were nothing more than average citizens that must obey the white man's rule.
(2) "The white men had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia." (178)
Imperialism had a positive effect on African villages. The imperialists not only brought the religion of Christianity to Umuofia which allowed people to have more diverse religions, but they also set up a trading store that allowed Umuofia to become commercially successful. The introduction of trade is a positive change because Umuofia can now gain more resources instead of yams. These new resources can be beneficial to the Umuofian markets and allow the citizens to try new things. Trading will also lead to Umuofia becoming more culturally diverse with new and foreign goods entering their system. Thanks to imperialism, Umuofia's economy expanded and money is no longer an issue.
Great job! I loved your analysis, it connected and you stated how. Everything is clear and easy to understand.
Delete"An osu could not attend an assembly of the free-born... and when he died he was buried by his kind in the Evil Forest, How could such a man be a follower of Christ? 'He needs Christ more than you or I' said Mr. Kiaga" (Achebe 156)
ReplyDeleteMr. Kiaga is the leader of a church in Mbata, Okonkwo's motherland. A church member under Mr. Kiaga was complaining about an osu joining the church. An osu is a man who is expelled from the village because he is called "evil" for superstitious reasons. When a church member did not want an osu to become christian, because the osu was "evil", Mr.Kiaga welcomed the osu into the church. Christianity was a safe home for the outcasts of the village, who had no other options. Christianity gave an opportunity for a new life for peovillages.ple rejected by their own tribes. Imperialism had a positive impact on African villages.
"They guarded the prison, which was full of men who had offended against the white man's law... they were beaten in the prison... and made to work every morning clearing the government compound and fetching wood for the White commisioner and the court messengers" (Achebe 175)
In Umuofia, there was a white imperialist government installed outside the village. In the government complex, there was a prison. The prison was for people who violated the laws of the white men, and there were often africans in the prison. The africans in the prison were beaten by white men, and forced to do work for the white men. Africans were harmed by imperialism, because they were treated cruelly in the prisons. Imperialism had a negative impact on Africa.
Remember to capitalize Africans in your second analysis.
DeleteI agree with Michael. All names of people, places, countries, cultures, etc. need to be capitalized. Also, you need to have periods at the end of each citation in both of your quotes.
Delete1) "And so he built a school and a little hospital"... "They were not all, these people who came to learn"(Achebe 181)
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive effect on the people of Africa. The "he" is referring to Mr.Brown a white missionary. The school he built was open to anyone who wanted to learn. Mr.Brown wanted to educate the people of Umuofia. He proved this when "he went from family to family begging people to send their children to his school"(181). Mr.Brown cared about the people of Umuofia and, he wanted them to learn his religion. Mr.Brown also built a hospital to help those in need. Now, if someone were to get injured they would be taken care of in the hospital instead of in an obi. Mr.Brown's kindness proves that imperialism had a positive effect on the people of Africa.
2)" The six men ate nothing throughout that day and the next. They were not even given any water to drink, and they could not go out to urinate or go into the bushes when they were pressed. At night the messengers came in to taunt them and to knock their shave heads together"(Achebe 195).
Imperialism had a negative effect on the people of India."The six men" represent the leaders of Umuofia. The District Commissioner invited them to a "friendly" meeting but then captured them. They held them captive and gave them no respect. They shaved their heads and starved them. One messenger carried a long stick and he "hit each man with a few blows to the head and back"(195). The leaders were kept captive until Umuofia paid a fine of 250 bags of cowires. A cowire is the currency of money in Umuofia. The way the British treated the leaders of Umuofia was unfair and cruel. They took away their natural rights and kept them against their will. This shows that imperialism had a negative effect on the people of Africa.
Elizabeth Gayle Colon
ReplyDelete“Not only the low-born and the outcast but sometimes a worthy man had joined it.” (Achebe 174)
Many positive changes occurred during the time Britain diffused its culture into Umuofia. The Britain’s established a single church which practiced Christianity, in Umuofia. At first the natives of Umuofia disliked the idea of a new religion converting what the natives considered “low-born” people. Yet they despised the idea even more when, what the natives considered “worthy” people converted into Christianity. Even though the view point to some of the Umuofia on the Christian church was negative those who converted to it believed it was positive. In the Umuofia society people were treated differently according to their social status. Those who converted to Christianity were accepted no matter what social status they had. Christianity affected Umuofia in a positive way because it gave the natives of Umuofia who accepted its message equality.
“They had built a court where men had the District Commissioner judged cases in ignorance.” (Achebe 174)
When the Britain’s imperialized Umuofia the Britain’s set up a different justice system. The justice system set up by the British impacted Umuofia in a negative way, since the Justice Commissioner made decisions during trial not knowing the culture of Umuofia. By the Justice Commissioner’s ignorance of the Umuofia culture, he does not uphold the Umuofia tradition and practices. This affects the Umuofia natives negatively since they are being ruled by people who don’t respect their culture which can lead to conflicts between the natives and their new judges. In addition, the natives of Umuofia are affected negatively by the British justice system since the new justice system doesn’t agree with their laws. The District Commissioner judge cases on what he believes and because of this he is forcing the natives to comply with laws they are not used too and want to resist.
"Mr. Brown's school produced quick results. A few months in it were enough to make one a court messenger or even a court clerk. Those who stayed longer became teachers..." (Achebe 182).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive effect on African villages because it offered more opportunities for the Africans to become successful. Before the "white men" came, the Africans lived off the earth and success was defined by how many titles and wives and land a man had. They also had no education because priorities were mainly about the village crops and being able to prepare for the harvest. Now that the white men have arrived and Mr. Brown built his school, the Africans are able to have an education and even careers, as opposed to just being farmers or warriors. Therefore, imperialism had a positive effect on the Africans because they are being provided and education and better jobs to become successful.
"'That man was one of the greatest men in Umuofia. You drove him to kill himself, and now he will be buried like a dog...'" (Achebe 208).
Imperialism had a negative effect on African villages. Okonkwo was a strong man who was one of the greatest leaders in Umuofia because he stood up for his people. But when the white men come to the villages, the people become "soft like women" (Achebe 183). Okonkwo is the only man who stands up to the court messengers, who treat the Umuofia leaders with no respect, and eventually kills one of them. He assumes that his people will fight the rest of the messengers, but they don't, which leads Okonkwo to believe that the men are "soft like women" even more. He decides to hang himself, which is considerd an abomination in his village. The reason that imperialism had a negative effect on the African villages because when the Africans tried to stand up for themselves and take back what was theirs, they still lost. Imperialism negatively impacted the African villages because Umuofia lost their freedom and one of their greatest leaders.
Your analysis is beautifully done!
DeleteI truly love everything about it since you have used prior knowledge and organized it well! Great job :)
“Our own men have joined the ranks of the strangers. They have joined his religion and they help to uphold his government.” (Achebe 176)
ReplyDeleteAfrica is being impacted due to the effects of imperialism. The British have settled in Umuofia, who are identified as the “strangers”. As a result of the British spreading their religion and new government, the villagers have begun to take sides with the British. In addition, the clan is also learning and participating in the new religion the British have spread. The clan learns the basis of Christianity, which is negative. Learning this religion is negative as the citizens of Africa become familiarized to British customs. The clan slowly begins to lose some customs that they have developed throughout existence. Now, the villagers lean more towards what the British are bringing to Africa aside form what the clan has established before the British arrived. In addition, the clan now lives according to British laws. This is also negative because what is both right and wrong depends on perspective. What one may see as a punishable act, another may see as an act of tradition. Since the British are not aware of all the clan’s traditions, customs, and morals, not all laws that will be made will benefit the Africans. Overall, imperialism has a negative impact on African villages.
“The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia” (Achebe 178)
Imperialism has a positive effect on African villages. As the British settled in Umuofia, they brought with them, a new religion and economic stability. The new religion that is being taught to the Africans provides as a learning experience to teach the clan of different culture. This can have a positive effect because the new religion allowed the Africans to be more culturally diverse. The British also built trading stores, which served as a system of trade. This system provided people with employment, and also the opportunity to sell and buy items that were not always accessible. The trading stores improved the economy of Africa. Because “much money flowed into Umuofia” (178) Africans were benefited as a result of the financial gain. Overall, imperialism had a positive impact on African villages.
1) "They had built a court where the District Commissioner judged cases in ignorance. He had court messengers who brought men to him for trial" (Achebe 174).
ReplyDeleteThis shows how imperialism had a positive impact on Africa. Before the British came into Africa, there wasn't an organized law system. The way that the people of Umuofia dealt with hard situations was not proper. Now that imperialism has taken place, there is court system in which people are treated fairly. This shows a positive impact on Africa because it shows how people have shifted from treating others unfairly to giving people the rights they deserve.
2) "We cannot leave the matter in his hands because he does not understand our customs, just as we do not understand his. We say he is foolish because he does not know our ways, and perhaps he says we are foolish because we do not know his. Let him go away" (Achebe 191).
This shows how imperialism had a negative impact on Africa. The men of Umuofia wanted to burn the church because they were angry. They were angry because the British were trying to take over their land and bringing in their own customs and religion. This is negative because it shows how imperialism has caused people to have so much hatred toward each other just because they're different. The people can't get along because they don't respect and understand each other's customs and religion. This is negative because it caused the Africans to deal with so much hatred and violence.
"But he says that our customs are bad; and our own brothers who have taken up his religion also say that are customs are bad. How do you think we can fight when are own brothers have turned against us" (Achebe 176).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact on the african village. Obierika, Okonkwo friend, is explaining how since he has been executed everything changed. A church had come to the village of Umofia teaching the Umofians the religion Christianity. Even a man named Ogbuefi Ugonna who had two titles, gave them up to join the Christians (174). This shows how imperialism has had a negative impact. The reason why is because the people of Umofia are forgetting their customs. Thier customs will be soon forgotten because no one is practicing them. As well the people are giving up their titles which was an important custom because thats how they ranked the people. As Obierika said they can not fight back because they do not want to go against their brothers. This does not allow them to fight for what they believe in which is impacting the african village negatively.
"Every man in Umuofia went about armed with a gun or machete. They would not be caught unaware, like the men of Abame" (Achebe 192).
Imperialism had a negative impact on the African village. Okonkwo had spoken violently to his clansman to decide on thier action. They did not agree to kill the missionary or drive away the Christians, but to destroy the church (192). It brought Okonkwo almost being happy again. This shows a negative impact on Umuofia. The reason why is because since the Kotma came to imperialize Umuofia, it allowed to Okonkwo wanting to get his village back the way it was. This allowed Okonkwo to destroy the church. The destruction of the church lead to every man in Umuofia carrying a gun or a machete. This is a negative impact because the Umuofians became violent. It was unsafe to even walk unarmed because they felt that they were going to be attacked when they are unaware.
"Wait a minute," said the Commissioner. "I want to bring in my men so that they too can hear your grievances and take warning. Many of them come from distant places and although they speak your tongue they are ignorant of your customs"( Achebe 193).
ReplyDeleteThis shows a positive impact of imperialism. The Commissioner wants his own people to hear the problems that the people from Umuofia are facing. By making his people listen to the problems, they might be able to help or to have an idea of what is it that is bothering the Umuofians. This shows a positive impact because those people are not from there and even though they speak the same language and might not know their customs, they are willing to hear their problems. This shows how they care about the Umuofians and how they would listen to their problems. This benefits the Umuofians because they can trust that the foreigners would listen to their problems and maybe try to fix them. Therefore Imperialism had a positive impact on the African villages, especially on Umuofia.
".......but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia" (Achebe 178).
This shows a positive impact of imperialism. This is a positive impact because the village is now getting much more money. Also the white man created a trading store which allowed the people from Umuofia to get utensils or materials they might need and to be able to trade their own goods. In this case, palm-oil is now becoming a great deal because it is gathering much money that goes to Umuofia. This is a positive impact of imperialism because trade is going on and it can lead to a better development of resources. Overall, Imperialism had a positive impact on Umuofia.
1) "It is already too late... our own men and our sons have joined the ranks of the stranger. They have joined his religion and they help to uphold his government" (Achebe 176)
ReplyDeleteThis shows imperialism had a negative impact on African villages. When Okonkwo returned from exile after killing a boy, he finds that his village is in ruins and that his own people are joining the British. Villagers abandoned their own religion and culture for the sake of helping a foreign country that took control over them. This is a negative impact on the African villages because if everyone converted their religion to Christianity, then the African culture will soon be lost. Due to imperialism, Africans were forced to comply with the British and learn their customs against their will. This showed that imperialism had a negative impact on African villages.
2) "The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia" (Achebe 178)
This shows that imperialism had a positive impact on the African villages. Due to British influences, trading stores were built. This allowed people to exchange goods with one another and also buy new items. It was also the first time that the economy of Umuofia prospered so much. These effects benefited people, which is a positive thing. Therefore imperialism had a positive effect on the African villages.
I liked how you put ana and connect it to the topic sentence. I would only suggest to fully breakdown evidence because in second ana you did not state anything about "palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuoifa" Try to use keywords for connection. However overall you did great job.
Delete"Every man in Umuofia went about armed with a gun or a machete."(192)
ReplyDeleteImperialism affected the African village in a negative way. Because of the white missionaries taking over and converting the African people to Christianity the Umuofians felt threatened. They were very unexpextant of what was to happen next but they didn't want to take any chances. "They would not be caught unawares, like the men of Abame."(192)This has a negative influence on the Umuofians because they became uncivilized and made unethical choices. Overall, imperialism has affected the Umuofian village negatively.
"The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia."
This qoute exemplifies how imperialism had a positive affect on Umuofia. Although, the white missionaries had different beliefs and languages they've brought culltural diversity to the village. They taught the Umuofians the value of resources which placed the village in good terms financially. Therefore, imperialism has been a positive effect on Umuofia.
Your analysis is satisfactory, but you have a flowing quote in your first piece of writing, you cannot start a sentence with "Because" UNLESS you have a comma somewhere(remember the dependent and independent), and you meant to say "unexpected" instead of " unexpextant". Same thing goes to your second quote. Check your spelling errors and punctuation's. Along with that, you still need a citation. Sorry but I'm only trying to help you in order for you to do better next time. Overall, you did a good job. :)
DeleteYou mean floating quote. :)
DeleteOh yes! Sorry, that was my mistake. I meant floating*. Thank you for catching that mistake :)
Delete1. In this way Mr. Brown learned a good deal about the religion of the clan and he came to the conclusion that a frontal attack will not succeed” (Achebe 181)
ReplyDeleteImperialism in Africa had a positive impact on African villages. Mr. Brown is a white missionary that tries to keep peace and respect between the clan and those from his own country. Mr. Brown is from Britain and went to Umuofia, an African village, to spread Christianity whilst trying to help the Umuofians. The quote shows a positive impact because Mr. Brown does not assume that he can force the Umuofians to become Christian. He listened to one of the great men of Umuofia to learn more about their religion. Although the two spent time to understand each other’s religion, “neither of them succeeded in converting the other, but they learned more about their different beliefs” (179). This is a positive effect of Imperialism because it allows people to learn about other cultures. Akunna, the great man, had one of his sons go to the school Mr. Brown built in Umuofia. Many people sent their children to his school and learned about Christianity. Having more than one belief in a place makes it more diverse and those who did not like their customs have the option to convert without being forced. Imperialism in Africa had a positive effect because it gave Umuofians the chance to learn about other religions and customs.
2. “The white man’s court has decided that it should belong to Nnama’s family, who had given much money to the white messenger’s and interpreter” (Achebe 176).
Imperialism in Africa had a negative impact on African villages. The white men brought government with them to Umuofia. The District Commissioner judged cases and was hated in Umuofia because the white men were arrogant. There was an argument over a piece of land and the court decided to give the land to Nnama’s family, only because they gave a large sum of money to the white messengers. This is a negative effect of imperialism because the District Commissioner is being biased. The court was supposed to be a fair system in which cases are solved with consideration. The white men or British were focused on gaining money more than helping the Umuofians have a court system. Imperialism had a negative effect on Umuofia because the British were focused on personal gain.
“Okonkwo was deeply grieved. And it was not just a personal grief. He mourned for the clan, which he saw breaking up and falling apart and he mourned for the warlike men of Umuofia, who had so unaccountably become soft like women” (Achebe 183).
ReplyDeleteImperialism affected Umuofia negatively. Okonkwo himself witness that his tribe is losing their culture. Umuofians abandoned their culture and converted into Christianity, separating themselves from their society. The British are changing the culture of Umuofia and that also means interfering with their religion (Achebe 176). This has a negative impact on Umuofia because the British are taking over and changing the custom of the Umuofians into something that most Umuofians hate because it is going against their religion. The Umuofians cannot stop the doing of the Brtish because they do not have the power to.
“The band of egwugwu moved like a furious whirlwind to Enoch’s compound and with machete and fire reduced it to a desolate heap. And from there they made for the church, intoxicated with destruction” (Achebe 188).
The British had meddled with the religion of Umuofia. This caused Umuofians to become extremely angry and it shows that imperialism impacted Umuofia negatively. The Umuofians did not want the British to come into their lives and change their religion. Doing so, the Umuofians had a riot and went to the church and destroyed it into rubbles. This shows the Umuofians do not want change and do not like the custom of the British. Imperialism had a negative impact on Umuofia because it is messing with the Umuofian’s religion. To Umuofia, their religion is most important.
I like your organization Xiao, but for the first quote, I suggest that you connect religion with the evidence such as why they became "soft" like women. You should include key words from the evidence.
Delete1)" More people came to learn i his school, and he encouaged them with gifts of singlets and towels"(Achebe 181).
ReplyDeleteWhen the Britsh imperialized Africa, they had Mr.Brown teach the ways of the British to the unadvanced Africa. They built schools and hospitals for the Africans. This is an postive impact, because the Britsih are teaching Africans new things ,and the Africans should be grateful that they now have the chance to get their education. Learning new things does no harm to them, so having somebody teach them is a privilege. Having more knowledge could benefit them in the future, therefore having Mr.Brown give education to the Africans is a positive thing.
2)" New churches were established in the surrounding villages and few schools with them" (Achebe 182).
This is a negative impact on Africans, because the British had not only brought education ,but religion. Christianity had a negative impact on the Africans ,becasue that means now they have to give up their religion and practice the new relgion that they don't even know. Changing their religion was very difficult for them, since they have thier own relgion in Umuofia for a long time. They don't have the ability to covert from one religion to another. Having the Africans covert has a negative impact on them.
2) "New churches were established in the surrounding villages and few schools with them"(Achebe 182).
DeleteThe British had a negative impact on Umuofia. The British had not only brought education, but have brought their religion with them to Africa. Christianity was the belief of only one true god, and the Africans believed in many gods ,therefore for the Africans to believe in only one god is not enough. The Africans had this religion for many years, and now they have to convert to Christianity, must be very difficult for them. During that time they really believe in many gods, and that they also were really in depth with religion. Having to convert to another belief is like going against their own people. Going against their religion is like being a betrayer, and being a betrayer is never good. The British have a negative impact on the Africans, for making them convert.
“The new religion and government and the trading stores were very much in the people’s eyes and minds” (Achebe 183).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive effect on African villages. Mr. Brown, a white missionary had made positive changes in Umuofia. Mr. Brown built a trading store (178), a school and a hospital in the village (181). Mr. Brown’s improvements had changed the life of the people in Umuofia. These changes the Mr. Brown made were kept in people’s eyes and minds. This shows that the villagers in Umuofia started to agree with Mr. Brown’s new developments. Villagers also started to bring their children the school to gain knowledge because they were persuaded by Mr. Brown’s words. He told the villagers that in the future if the leader can’t read and write, he/she will not be able to rule the village. Then, foreigners will easily take over (181). Overall, imperialism had a positive effect on African villages because people started to accept the imperialism by keeping their developments in eyes and minds.
“It is already too late…” “Our own men and our sons have joined his religion and they help to uphold his government” (Achebe 176).
Imperialism had a negative effect on African villages. When Okonkwo returned from his seven years of exile to Umuofia, he noticed that the village was falling apart. Ever since the white missionaries arrived to their village, many villagers were convinced to join the white missionaries and leave Umuofia instead. Okonkwo’s friend, Obierika told Okonkwo that many of their brothers had left them. There is no point to fight back because if they do, they are just like fighting against their brothers (176). The villagers that joined the white missionaries had gone to help the white men’s government as well. Therefore, imperialism had a negative effect on African villages because it broke the village apart. Imperialism also made brothers turned into enemies.
In the first five sentences, I think that there shouldn't be a "the" between "changes" and "Mr.Brown".
DeleteMy mistake.
Delete“The new religion and government and the trading stores were very much in the people’s eyes and minds” (Achebe 183).
Imperialism had a positive effect on African villages. Mr. Brown, a white missionary had made positive changes in Umuofia. Mr. Brown built a trading store (178), a school and a hospital in the village (181). Mr. Brown’s improvements had changed the life of the people in Umuofia. These changes Mr. Brown made were kept in people’s eyes and minds. This shows that the villagers in Umuofia started to agree with Mr. Brown’s new developments. Villagers also started to bring their children the school to gain knowledge because they were persuaded by Mr. Brown’s words. He told the villagers that in the future if the leader can’t read and write, he/she will not be able to rule the village. Then, foreigners will easily take over (181). Overall, imperialism had a positive effect on African villages because people started to accept the imperialism by keeping their developments in eyes and minds.
1) “The clan had undergone such profound change during his exile that it was barely recognizable. The new religion and government and the trading stores were very much in the people’s eyes and minds… He mourned for the clan, which he saw breaking up and falling apart and he mourned for the warlike men of Umuofia, who had so unaccountably become soft like women” (Achebe 182-183).
ReplyDeleteOkonkwo had been exiled for seven years due to an incident where his gun accidentally exploded a piece of iron that pierced the heart of a boy, killing him. Okonkwo returned to his village to find that it had changed significantly. The white men were thought to be harmless at first due to the fact that they came peacefully, but overtime the white men’s influence began to transform the way of life of the Africans. The imperialists had established a church that taught Christianity, and even though it had contradicted their tradition, the Africans began to believe in it as well. Men that held titles and strongly believed in their tradition even converted; the men accepted it and did not fight back. This shows how imperialism had a negative impact, because d to the new religion being introduced separated many of the people. There were many Africans clinging on to the old ways, but they had found it hard since everyone else was changing their ways. Some believed in Christianity while others believed in their ancestor’s traditions; this culture diversity caused many problems with the people because there were two different beliefs striving to survive. Although imperialism had caused some negative impacts on Africa it also caused some positive effects. There were trading stores that sold products, and a government was established that provided the people with law, and order. The introduction of a new religion allowed for people to make a choice of what to believe in, other than following their traditions blindly they were able to chose the one that they found made the most sense. Basically imperialism impacted the Africans positively as well as negatively.
2) “They guarded the prison, which was full of men who had offended against the white man’s law” (Achebe 174).
The imperialists established a government where there was some sort of law system. They built a jail for those who committed a crime; these criminals were punished through the full extent of the law. Imperialism had a positive impact, because a justice system was established that punished the guilty instead of the innocent. Although this may be true, some of the punishments were unethical, and harsh. Overall even though laws were established the protected people, and provided justice, they ended up hurting what they were trying to protect.
1) "'That man was one of the greatest men in Umuofia. You drove him to kill himself, and now he will be buried like a dog....'" (Achebe 208).
ReplyDeleteThis quote negatively conveys the impact of Imperialism on Okonkwo and his village. Okonkwo has killed himself. He felt that everything was coming to an end in his world. Everything was changing and he wasn’t pleased with these changes. Men weren’t war-like material any more, which greatly upset Okonkwo. He defied the messengers and killed one of them. He then realized that the people wouldn’t go into war, that they have already changed. Imperialism negatively impacted the African village because it changed its customs, beliefs, and traditions that the people of Umoufia followed. It made the men weak and “soft like women” (Achebe 183). This is how this quote portrays the negative impact Imperialism had on Okonkwo and his village.
2) "They guarded the prison, which was full of men who had offended against the white man's law...The court messengers did not like to be called Ashy-Buttocks, and they beat the men." (Achebe 174/175).
This quote demonstrates a negative impact Imperialism had on African villages. The people of Umoufia are being imprisoned and punished for not following a religion they didn’t believe in and for speaking their minds. Therefore meaning that their rights are being limited. The people of Umoufia are being beaten by the court messengers because they are naming them “Ashy-Buttocks” and made a poem about it. The court messengers are abusing their power by beating the prisoners who were already suffering enough. The reason that this is a negative impact is because people were being imprisoned for defying the Christian rules, even though they are not Christians. They are not only not allowed to follow their own beliefs and customs, but if they do something that is against Christianity, they will be imprisoned and beaten. This is how this quote shows a negative impact of Imperialism on African villages.
You have good quotes and analysis but I have a few comments. For the first quote isn't it a postivie impact that the people of Umoufia don't want to go in war instead they want peace; wasn't it good that the people thought Okonkwo killing the messenger was wrong. For the second analysis didn't the justice system do good. The white people arrested the men who killed their childern or beat their wives. So they really didn't arrest people who broke the christain law but the British were really arresting the people who did wrong and thought it was right.
DeleteYes that is a good thing, but it caused a death and will soon cause more.
DeleteAlthough the people who deserved to be arrested were imprisoned,the white men also arrested people for defying the church laws.
That is all true. However, I am basing my ANA based on the view of this quote. I viewed it as a negative impact, therfore I broke it down to what I thought. Although what you pointed out is true, it really depends on how the writer views the quote. Thanks for the feedback though :)
1) In this way Mr. Brown learned a good deal about the religion of the clan and he came to the conclusion that a frontal attack on it would not succeed. And so he built a school and a little hospital in Umuofia" (Achebe 181).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive effect on Umuofia. Mr. Brown is a white missionary and he keeps peace within his own people and the Umuofians. Mr. Brown went to Umuofia to spread Christianity. He attempts to understand their religion but tries to convert them anyway. Akunna and him have conversations about their beliefs. The schools will help the village because then the people will be able to read and write. The Umuofians decide to enroll after Mr. Brown tells them that the future leaders will be men and women who can read and write and that other countries will come and rule their land (181). The hospitals also benefit the village because of their advanced technology in medicine. The Umuofians would be able to get cured faster and wouldn't have a risk in dying. Therefore, imperialism had a positive effect on African villages because of the schools and hospitals established in the villages.
2) "we have a court of law where we judges cases and administer justice as it is done in my own country under a great queen" (Achebe 194).
Okonkwo and the other five leaders of Umuofia were asked to go to the District Commissioner headquarters. There they had a meeting about what had happened to the church. They were arrested and handcuffed. Imperialism had a negative effect on Umuofia. The British had an advantage on the African villages. They were more advanced in technology since they had already begun industrializing. Okonkwo and the other five leaders were taken in by surprise because they didn't know what was going on. It all happened so quickly that they didn't have time to defend themselves (194). The African villages are over powered by the white missionaries because of their weapons. Therefore, imperialism was a negative effect on the African villages.
“More people came to learn in his school, and he encouraged them with gifts of singlets and towels. They were not all young, these people who came to learn” (Achebe 181).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive impact on African villages. Mr. Brown, a white missionary, began to gather info on the clan's religion/belief. He soon concluded that a “frontal attack” will not work. In other words, he clearly sees that a quick change would not affect the people of Umoufia so easily. Mr. Brown turns to plan b and decides to build a school and a little hospital for the people. This creates a huge opportunity for many to gain access to more knowledge of what is actually happening outside of Umoufia. To add on, many will benefit from medicine that the missionaries had brought to the country which will lead to individuals surviving any diseases, damages etc. The population will not decrease in Umoufia because of the introduction of medicine. As I have said before, schools were created for the citizens of Umoufia. Not only the children were able to attend school, but adults too! The outcome of creating schools in Umoufia left a huge opportunity for anyone at any age to gain more knowledge and actually become familiar of what is happening to the “outside world.” In conclusion, Imperialism created a helpful impact for citizens of Umoufia.
“One thing is clear,” said Mr. Smith. “We cannot offer physical resistance to them. Our strength lies in the Lord.” They knelt down together and prayed to God for delivery” (188).
Imperialism had a harmful impact on African villages. Mr. Smith, a white missionary who replaces Mr. Brown, is confused on how to deal with such a controversial event that is occuring in Umoufia. Before the issue arose, Enoch, son of the leader of the snake cult, converted to be a christian by Mr. Brown. Once he believed in Christianity, he commits a disrespectful act by ripping the mask off an egwugwu during an annual ceremony to honor the earth. Egwugwu was another way of saying a masquerader who impersonates an ancestral spirit of Umoufia. This one event soon leads to a clash between the indigenous and the colonial justice systems. The teachings of Christianity warped many of the native's logic because of the outburst Umoufians created. At this point, no one believes in Christianity due to the fact that Enoch, a fellow converted Christian, killed the egwugwu. They, the indigenous, once had no proper guidance in their belief system but once the missionaries arrived, they were taught to believe in Christianity. Many began to question on what to believe at this point. The logic is warped now because natives believed that Christianity was a peaceful religion, but after seeing a christian offend their own culture/ belief, this creates a division amongst the people. When this horrific event occurred, Umoufians burned down the missionary church which soon led the missionaries to lock up the six leaders of Umoufia. The unity among the indigenous and the missionaries was completely broken. Therefore, revealing Imperialism to have a harmful impact on African villages.
Your analysis was well written and organized, great job!
DeleteI agree with Xavier. The analysis is well done and clear to understand your point. Well done!
Delete1. "We cannot leave the matter in his hands because he does not understand our customs, just as we do not understand his." (Achebe 191)
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative effect on Umuofia, the village. The village people want to burn down the church because the British is bring their own culture or religion to Umuofia, which the people of Umuofia did not like. Umuofia did not like it because they have their own culture why would they need another new one that they do not understand. This has a negative impact because it could led to wars and fights that the people may not want.
2. "He went from family to family begging people to send their children to his school." (Achebe 181)
Imperialism had a positive effect on Umuofia, the village. The word he is Mr.Brown. Mr.Brown is teacher that want kids in Umuofia to have an education because he wants kids to go to his school to learn. Even though, Umuofia is being controlled by the British, the kids could still learn no matter what. This has a positive effect because kids could learn and have an eduction that the kids need.
I liked how you connected to how imperialism was negative in the first quote, but I would just say to include why it is important for British to understand Indian culture. You explained why the British do not need another culture to understand, but you need to be more specific.
DeleteThe white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia"(Achebe 178).
ReplyDeleteThis quote is an example of how imperialism had a positive affect on Umuofia. When the white men established their religion in Umuofia the villagers of Umuofia felt as if it was a ridiculous belief, "the white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion"(Achebe 178). Other than that, a trading store was built where "palm-oil and kernel became things of great price"(Achebe 178).
This is an example of how imperialism was a positive impact on the villagers of Umuofia because many people would be able to trade and benefit from it. Making money from it was something important because it would benefit people economically. In addition this was the first time Umuofia would prosper economically because of the trading store. Thus, imperialism had a positive impact on Umuofia.
"That is not so. We make sacrifices to the little gods, but when they fail and there is no one else to turn to we go to Chukwu"(Achebe 180).
This quote is an example of imperialism having a positive impact on Umuofia. When Mr. Brown and Akunna were talking, they spoke about their religious beliefs, and how one of them believes in one god and the other in many gods. Akunna mentioned that when he makes sacrifices he approaches to the little gods (180) but, if they don't do anything he asks Chukwu, god the creator of everything. Imperialism brought cultural diversity to Umuofia and made most of the villagers believe in more than one religion. They believed in their gods and in the god from the Christian religion.The fact that the people believed in many gods is a positive impact because the villagers have more gods to turn to when they want to sacrifice or pray. this is a positive effect because villagers had different gods to pray to.
Great analysis! But remember to put quotation mark in the beginning of the quote not just the end of it
Delete"The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia"(Achebe 178).
Delete1)"How do you think we can fight when our own brothers have turned against us." (Achebe 176)
ReplyDeleteThis quote shows a negative impact to Okonkwo and his village. The white commissioner was able to convert many people from the Umuofia village. Their own people turned against Okonkwo and the rest of the village which makes them weaker. Now the people of Umuofia don't respect the religion they once believed in. This benefits the British because they got more people on their side which makes them more powerful.
2)"And so he built a school and a little hospital in Umuofia." (Achebe 181)
This quote shows a positive impact on Umuofia. Mr. brown decides to build a school and hospital because there wasn't much hospitals and schools in Umuofia. Mr. Brown would beg families to send their kids to school and learn. At first barely anyone sent their kids to school, instead they sent their slaves. This shows a positive impact because building schools and hospitals can prevent other countries taking control and rule Umuofia.
You should specify your pronouns in your first paragraph, like who is "their own people". Your first paragaph would've been stronger if you added in what the villagers in Africa's beliefs were and how did they go against it by turning against Okonkwo.
DeleteIn your second paragraph, you should specify, howthe production of these architectural buildings prevent other countries from taking control of Umuofia?
Overall, i think the other parts you included are straight forward.
1.“The church had come and led many astray” (174).
ReplyDeleteImperialism is when a stronger nation wants to take over a weaker nation; based on this quote it shows that imperialism had a positive impact on African villages. Before African villages got imperialized they had many gods to explain the way their environment worked. Since they were very respectful to these gods they used to do unfair sacrifices, do make them happy so that the gods would bring them good luck. Also before African villages got imperialized women were treated very unfairly. But this quote shows that imperialism had a positive affect on African villages because the new religion, which was Christianity “led” many Africans into the right way. Although this quote says “astray” which it means off the correct path, it really helped Africans to take the right path. For example Ogbuefi Ugonna decided to join the Christians, due this he cut the anklet of his titles and cast (174). This shows that Ogbuefi learned that materials things as not as important, and that social class doesn’t really shows who you really are. Since the new religion is taking Africans to take the correct path then that also means that men will also learn to be more respectful to women. This shows that imperialism is something positive for their society because it’s causing Africans to explain the world in a different way and in some way it may cause equality between men and women.
2.“The Pacification of the Privative Tribes of the Lower Niger” (209).
This quote shows that imperialism had a negative impact on African villages because the white men used to feel superior to the natives of Africa. When Okonkwo died a white commissioner went to Okonkwo’s house to go get him for the crime he did. For his surprise he found Okonkwo’s friend “obi” which was the person who took him to the place where Okonkwo killed himself. But this white commissioner was racist because he described Okonkwo’s people as monkeys, and based on the title he put on his book “The Pacification of the Privative Tribes of the Lower Niger” (209). This shows that he thinks that the natives of Africa are animals for the poor education and beliefs they have to understand the world. Since he thinks that native Africans are under his power it shows that he is being racist to them because he is judging them by their skin color, beliefs and culture. Since this white commissioner was racist that also means that there was also more racism. Racism affects the African villages in a negative way because it can cause segregation, which is not good because it causes a lot of inequality.
“And so he built a school and a little hospital in Umuofia” (Achebe 181).
ReplyDeleteThe impact of the imperialism on the African was positive. The imperialists built schools to give education to the people in Umuofia. Mr. Brown was grateful to open up a school to educate the people in the village. He “encouraged” people to come and learn from the imperialist (181). This benefits the natives to receive education from the Imperialist. Mr. Brown had also built a hospital. This is a positive impact on the African because they receive medicines to stay healthy from sickness.
“He knew that Umuofia would not go to war. He knew because they had let the other messengers escape. They had broken into tumult instead of action. He discerned fright in that tumult” (Achebe 205).
The impact of the imperialism on the African was negative. Okonkwo was trying to convince the villagers of Umuofia to rebel and go to war with the imperialists. As the villagers and Okonkwo were discussing if they are true Umuofians or not, a white messenger came to stop the meeting. Okonkwo killed the white messenger with a machete, but the villagers let the other messengers escape. This was a negative effect by the Imperialism because the imperialist had changed the men of Umuofia. Okonkwo used to known them as strong and fierce warriors, but Okonkwo was disappointed that the villagers let the messenger escape. Okonkwo lost hope and walked away. This was a negative impact because the imperialism had changed the custom of the men of Umuofia. The men in Umuofia are not as strong and willing to fight for their town.
I like your choice of quotes but for your first paragraph, you should add in how Mr. Brown "encouraged" other people to join in his teachings in schools.
Delete1) "Our strength lies in the Lord. They knelt down together and prayed to God for delivery....But wisdom prevailed in the camp of the faithful and many lives were thus saved" (Achebe 188).
ReplyDeleteThis shows that Imperialism had an impact on African villages. This impact was positive because although Mr.Brown was replaced by white Mr.Smith, and a conflict arose, problems still were solved. When Enoch killed an ancestral spirit (Achebe 186), and although people hoped for a holy war; one didn't take place. This shows that Imperialism had a positive impact because of the spread of the religion Christianity. People believed in God when a crisis had happened and that resulted to many lives being saved.Religion had brought wisdom into people's lives and made them think a different way. Instead of using violence, they prayed peacefully.
2) "But I have also heard that Abame people were weak and foolish. Why did they not fight back? Had they no guns and machetes? We would be cowards to compare ourselves with the men of Abame" (Achebe 175).
This shows that imperialism had an impact on African villages. This is a negative impact because the Abame people were diminished by the "white men".The white men had advanced weapons such as guns and machetes (Imperialism), which makes taking control of the village easier. Imperialism had a negative impact on the Abame people because the weapons they had weren't as strong as the white men. Imperialism was the cause of why the Abame people was wiped out by the white man.
1) "He had warned Obierika that if he and his men played any monkey tricks they would be shot" (Achebe 207).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact on the African villages. The pronoun "he" is being referred to the white Commissioner, an Imperialist of Umuofia. He has ordered or commanded the small crowd of men "to come outside, and they obeyed without a murmur" (Achebe 206). He commanded them to step outside of obi since he was searching for Okonkwo, the one that the white men have abused. Obierika, a good friend of Okonkwo, along with other men, knew where he was and so they led the Commissioner with his men to him. According to this quote, it shows prejudice since "played any monkey tricks" refers to Obierika with his men, whom are Africans. Since Africans are black, the white Commissioners are being racist and called them monkeys, most likely because of their color and/or actions. The Africans are also being restricted in freedom and are being bossed around/tortured. Overall, Imperialism had a negative effect on Umuofia.
Since the post says "Analyze whether the impact was positive OR negative", I'm going to use another negative quote.
2) "You have all seen the great abomination of your brother. Now he is no longer my son or your brother" (Achebe 172).
Imperialism shows a negative impact on Okonkwo and his village. Nwoye, Okonkwo's first son, has had his own mind influenced by the white men. Due to this, he had left his family and joined the Commissioners. This had really upset Okonkwo and so he would curse anyone who dares to leave his side, like Nwoye did. He would wish them nothing but pain and death for betrayal. According to the quote, Okonkwo is warning his five sons that if any one of them would betray their own father like that, they would face many consequences in the future. He is also frightening/threatening them by saying "If you turn against me when I am dead I will visit you and break your neck"(172). This does not seem like what a true and loving father would say, but apparently Okonkwo doesn't forgive the ones who "used" to be a part of his family. Overall, Imperialism had a negative impact on the African villages since they have influenced peoples minds, which has led to the separation of families.
"One of the greatest crime a man could commit was to unmask an eguwugwu in public, or to say or do anything which might reduce its immortal prestige in the eyes of the uninitiated. And this was what Enoch did"(Achebe 186).
ReplyDeleteImperialism has had a negative effect on the African Village. Around the time of imperialism, religion was very important to the people. During the annual worship meaning the ceremony that took place for the gods, Enoch the son of the snake-priest had commited a terrifying crime. Enoch had revealed an egwugwu, a spirit of a god. This had a negative effect on the African village because the village was no longer the same since this kind of action has never occured before even the Mother of the Spirits did not know how to deal with this commotion.
"He went from family to family begging people to send the children to school"(Achebe 181).
Imperialism had a positive effect on the African Village. In this quote the "he" is Mr.Brown. Mr.Brown was a white missonary who opened opportunities for the people. Mr.Brown was thoughtful in building schools and hospitals and tried to build an education for the children. Mr.Brown protrayed hope by begging parents to send their kids hoping that they would send them and eventually the parents did. This was a positive effect on the African village because now the people were taking interest in learning and were willing to attend the schools.
"He went from family to family begging people to send their children to his school." (Achebe 181).
ReplyDeleteImperialism on Africa had a positive effect that benefited the people. Mr. Brown built a school and a little hospital in Umoufia. He wanted people to send their children to go to his school(Achebe 181). In this quote, "he" is referring to Mr.Brown. Mr. Brown went to families begging them to allow their children to go to his school. It shows he really want children to have an education. He wanted children to be able to learn how to read and write. Imperialism has done positive to Umoufia because Mr. Brown improved on education allowing people to have more opportunities in the future.
"Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has knife on the thing that held us together and we have fallen apart" (Achebe 176).
Imperialism had a negative effect on Africa. After Okonkwo returned from his seven year exile, he realized that many things have changed about his village. He realized that his village isn't the same as it was when he left. In the quote,"he" is referring to the British man, Mr.Brown and "we" is referring to the people of Umuofia. The quote is saying that imperialism has caused separation in their clan. The white men has taken control of Umuofia. What held the village together is being taken away such as religion. The white men brought their religion into Umuofia. This shows that Umuofia is falling apart due to imperialism. The religion and government that the white men has created made the village of Umuofia move away from their culture (Achebe 176). This is a negative impact on Umuofia because it is no longer as a whole.
Sally, I love your evidence! They clearly showed the positive and negative effects on Africa to me. Good job!
DeleteThanks, Janice :)
Delete“‘You are not satisfied with your crime, but you must still kill the white man on top of that’ He carried a strong stick, and he hit each man a few blows on the head and back…Nobody else spoke, but they noticed the long stripes on Okonkwo's back where the warder's whip had cut into his flesh" (Achebe 195-199)
ReplyDeleteThe impact of imperialism on the African villages was negative. When Okonkwo came back to the village after being taken hostage for his crime (194), he had sustained injuries of slashes on his back. The ward punished the natives for badmouthing white man which is natural if the judgment of white man is unfair to the village. The district commissioner was biased and only act on his own perspective because of the little custom he know about Umofia he only listened to the Mr. Smith’s discussion and did not care of how the villagers felt when Mr. Smith protected the ‘great crime’ of the village. This was negative because Imperialism gave Europeans power who then abuse power to judge people only from their perspective of what is right.
“The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart.” (Achebe 176)
The Imperialism affected African village negatively. Obierika and Okonkwo take note of how the white man (imperialist) came to their land peacefully and quietly at first but are now taking over the villages of Africa. The imperialists are imposing the government and the rules onto Ibo society. The missionaries came and created division within the most basic element of Ibo society, their religion. ‘Districts Commissioner judged cases in ignorance’ (174) shows how little the Imperialist country knows about the custom of Imperialized country. From that point of separation, introducing a government to rule the divided people was easy because they could not stand together to protect their way of life. As a result of these judgments the court messengers were greatly hated in Umofia because of their arrogance and high-handed. Therefore the government, who knew little of imperialized country’s customs, has judged the people negatively.
1)"They had built a court where the District Commissioner judged cases in ignorance" (Achebe 174).
ReplyDeleteThis quote shows the negative impact of imperialism. The commissioner had formed a justice system but he ruled unfairly. Using his high power over Okonkwo and his tribe he judges the cases in ignorance. He uses his power over the tribe to benefit himself. Since the commissioner is the highest in the social hierarcy, who ever goes against his teachings would be put away.
2)"The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia"(Achebe 178).
This quote shows the positive impact of imperialism. The white man built a trading store that helped sell more palm-oil and kernel. With the increase of trade and the increase of the prices, Umuofia had a lot of money coming into it making it richer. With the increase of the money Umuofia could become more advanced in the weapons they use and the materials they use to build their homes.
I like the evidence you had used for both! Well said for the analysis!
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ReplyDelete“He wiped his machete on the sand and went away” (Achebe 205)
ReplyDeleteImperialism had influence the African village in a negative way. Okonkwo and the other five great leaders gather at the market place in Umuofia and prepare to fight back against the white men. When Okonkwo saw the white messengers coming, he was fused with hate and had killed one of them by cutting their head off with his machete (Achebe 204). This symbolizes hate because the white men came to their village and imperialize them. Okonkwo’s clansmen became soft like women since they were oppress by the abundant power the white men wield. After he killed the messenger, people in his clan had let the other white messenger escape (Achebe 205). At this point, Okonkwo knew Umuofia would not go to war since his clansmen betrayed him. Sadly, he wiped his machete on the sand and left. This illustrates that Okonkwo was done with this chaos since he could not do anything by himself if his clan does not fight with him. This shows that imperialism affected the African village in a negative way because most of the men in Umuofia became weak like women and that Okonkwo was betrayed by his own clan since they were scared of the white men and did not fight back like he did.
“New churches were established in the surrounding villages and a few schools with them” (Achebe 182)
Imperialism had influence the African village in a positive way. Mr. Brown had learned a lot about the Umuofians culture. He spoke with Akunna, one of the great men in Umuofia (Achebe 179-181). Together, they share each others culture and beliefs. As long as they keep speaking, they became to understand more and more about each the cultures. Influenced by this, Mr. Brown built schools and hospital in Umuofia (Achebe 181). He mourned for Umuofians to go to his school and learn about religion. His arguments starts to have an effect on the people since more and more attended the school. Mr. Brown was very happy to see this result because this will help the Umuofian learn about his religion. Imperialism had affected the African village in a positive way because the Umuofians and the white missionaries share their beliefs with each other which led mutual understanding between them. This effect is called cultural diffusion.
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DeleteI really liked how you included "cultural diffusion" as a part of your analysis in the second paragraph and i admire the vocabularies you used. :]
Delete“He carried a strong stick, and he hit each man a few blows on the head and back.” ( Achebe 195)
ReplyDeleteThe white men took the 6 leaders of Umuofia and imprisoned them. They were being imprisoned because, the people of Umuofia burnt down the church of the white missionaries and rebelled against them. This was a positive impact on Umuofia because the British set up a government system that punishes those who did wrong. A new government in Umuofia allows them to be more civilized, and not feel like it”s okay to burn down houses. Overall this had a positive effect on the people of Umuofia.
“He went back to the church and told Mr.Kiaga that he had decided to go to Umuofia where the white missionary had set up a school to teach young Christians to read and write.” (Achebe 152)
Nwoye, Okonkwo’s son, has decided to go to the path of the white missionaries. He went against his father and followed the Christians. There he would learn how to read and write. This was a positive impact on Umuofia because they were introduced to a new type of education. Education was good for the people of Umuofia because it would improve their way of life and they’ll have a greater perspective on certain topics like, religion, language, writing, and reading. Overall this had a positive effect on the people of Umuofia.
"Whenever Mr. Brown went to that village he spent long hours with Akunna in his obi talking through an interpreter about religion. Neither of them succeeded in converting the other but they learned more about their different beliefs," (Achebe 179).
ReplyDeleteOkonkwo returned back to Umuofia after seven years of being sent back to his motherland. Okonkwo came back to this new dispensation, an arrangement or system, that he didn't really favor much. This new dispensation was the idea of imperialism being introduced. It has brought white men into introducing a new religion to people in Africa. Mr. Brown, a white missionary, a person sent to religious missions, created a very soothing vibe to the villagers in Umuofia. Mr. Brown was respected and this influenced one of the greatest men in the village called Akunna to send his son to learn in Mr. Brown's school (179). Imperialism has brought Mr. Brown as one of the people who will teach kids to learn in schools which has left a positive impact amongst people in Umuofia. Mr. Brown's conversation with Akunna has introduced Akunna to different beliefs and viewpoints in religion, making Akunna more open minded. Which sparked more ideas in Akunna's mind and helped him gain more knowledge, this shows that imperialism has affected him positively. This can help Akunna grow a better understanding towards more foreign people who will appear in Umuofia since imperialism has brought Mr. Brown in the village.
"That man was one of the greatest men in Umuofia. You drove him to kill himself, and now he will be buried like a dog..." (Achebe 208).
Okonkwo's return to the village of Umuofia has made him felt so much emotions of displeasure. Okonkwo allowed his emotions take over him as he dared not to hesistantly shoot the head messenger (204). Okonkwo shot the head messenger with a machete because the head messenger had announced that the meeting, Okonkwo had with the other villagers, who wanted to rebel against the new system that imperialism has brought upon in Africa, was to be called off. Okonkwo was found lifeless by his friends and the commissioner, who brought along his group, while his body was hung on a tree, (207). Obierka, one of Okonkwo's friend recalled how great Okonkwo was as a man when he stood up for his village. Imperialism has negatively impacted some of the villagers because the villagers was not content with the fact that some men has turned to act smoothly like a women. Okonkwo and his villagers had created a meeting to talk about how they should reform this new system that imperialism has influenced on people in Africa. The people in the meeting all wanted to gain back their power, the power men used to have over women. Imperialism has created the loss of culture and customs that Okonkwo and other people were accustomed to and liked better.
Okonkwo had slayed the head of the head messenger with a machete*
Delete"We have a court of law where we judge cases and administer justice just as it is done in my own country under a great queen " (Achebe 194).
ReplyDeleteImperialism affected Umuofians positively. This is because imperialists provided a fair justice system to Africans that Europeans followed. The justice system would punish anyone who committed a criminal act. Before imperialists came to Umuofia, bad actions like abuse were ignored. Okonkwo beat his wife and almost shot her because she cut leaves off of his tree to wrap food (Achebe 38). Since the villiage did not have a fair law system, Okonkwo thought it was ok to abuse his wife and got away with it. Imperialism benefitted Umuofia positively by punishing criminal acts like Europeans did in their county. Punishments will allow citizens like Okonkwo to deal with problems the right way. Imperialists influenced Africans positively because they changed their justice system.
"What do you want here?" "The white man whose power you know too well has ordered this meeting to stop"(Achebe 204).
European imperialists created a negative impact in Africa. This is beacuse the white imperialist wanted to stop an African meeting. In Umuofian culture, meetings are held during important events. Since the white man ' ordered this meeting to stop' he was neglecting African culture. In addition, all of the white men believe that Christianity is superior to Umuofia's culture because of nationalism. Nationalism is strong pride in ones country that people are willing to act upon. Europeans are in favor of their own beliefs and think that others should follow it too. Europeans neglecting African beliefs to support Christianity created a negative impact.
1)“The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has a put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart.” (Achebe 176)
ReplyDeleteThis quote shows a negative impact on Okonkwo and his village. Okonkwo believes the Umuofia were foolish, even blind, to have let the white man stay and prosper in their home. Because of the white man their clan has fallen apart and many conflicts have arisen due to introduction of Christianity. The clan is no longer working as a whole due to introduction of Christianity which has disrupted the Umuofia's way of life as well as their traditions. Some have converted to Christianity while others believe it is the work of the devil. This has caused many issues between the people in the village as they try to convince one another to either become Christians, or stay with the Umuofia's religion. Over all the disagreement has caused a lot of controversy within Okonkwo's village therefore causing the people to turn against one another.
2)“Then they came to the tree from which okonkwos body was dangling, and they stopped dead” (Achebe 207)
This quote shows a negative impact on Okonkwo and his village, but mainly Okonkwo. Okonkwo was angry due to the separation of the clan and the white men bringing many unknown concepts to them such as Christianity. Okonkwo wanted a war to occur so things will be back to the way they were before the white men came and before he had ever left. It angered Okonkwo immensely to see such sudden changes in the traditions of his people and the way of life they followed for so long. Soon his anger climbed to the peak and he ended up chopping one of the courts messengers head off. This act was supposed to spark the war, but things did not turn out as Okonkwo intended. Because of the lack of commitment and action from the village and his people, Okonkwo commits suicide because he felt that there was nothing more he could do. The white man disrupting his way of life, and taking away his power, drove him to end his life even though this was considered to be a huge sin to the Umuofia people. Okonkwo grew lost in a world that became unknown causing him to end it all.
"If any man ill-treats you we shall come to your rescue. But we will not allow you to ill-treat others. We have a court of law where we judge cases and administer justice as it is done in my own country..."(Achebe 194)
ReplyDeleteImperialism in Okonkwo's village has impacted the Nigerian people positively. Above the District Commissioner says that "we shall come to your rescue", the "we" he is referring to are the more powerful white Christians. He says this to Okonkwo and a few men who also share the same mindset (that the Christians were bad, and should be ridden of). He follows up saying that they themselves we not allowed to mistreat others. However, these six were suspected to be the ones that burnt down the church (Achebe 191). The fact that they burnt down the church was a crime. The "court of law" mentioned would give a proper punishment. The "court or law" promotes a new justice system that is less tolerant of violence. When Okonkwo accidentally killed a man he and his family were only sentenced to seven years of exile. In the British government he would be life sentence or death. His family would also not have to atone for his mistakes. They wouldn't be exiled or anything; they'd only be missing Okonkwo . The new justice system seems to be much more fair. It promotes self responsibly of action and also peace. Violence as compared to before is looked down upon much more.
""You are not satisfied with your crime, but you must kill the white man on top of it." He ... hit each man... Okonkwo was choke with hate..."(Achebe 195)
Imperialism has negatively impacted Okonkwo's village by implementing a superior race. The man who is talking above is a white messenger. He is speaking to Okonkwo and five other men who committed the crime of arson by burning down the church. The messenger overheard the six men talking about how they should have a killed the white man causing him to act angrily. However his choice of words show his preference. Instead of simply saying kill the man he says "kill the white man". Though it is the same wording that Okonkwo and his men used, it is as clear as day that the whit men look down on the Nigerians. The British men are constantly trying to convert the villagers to Christianity, speaking of the villager's practices distastefully. There was much white supremacy. The District Commisioner didn't even really see the villagers as people. He saw them as almost sub human creatures. He planned to write a book called, "The Pacification of the Primitive Tribes of the Lower Niger", dedicating only a "reasonable paragraph" to Okonkwo's death (Achebe 209). If it was a white man who committed suicide he'd at the very least feel a shred of sorrow. However, he because it was a Nigerian man, it was alright to exploit his death. This shows a new social class, not based on power or wealth or even looks, but instead race.
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ReplyDelete“They guarded the prison, which was full of men who had offended against the white man’s law. Some of these prisoners had thrown away their twins” (Achebe 174).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive effect on the African villages. People who threw away their twins were put in prison. The Africans believe that twins are evil and so when they are born their parents usually throw them in bushes to die. Putting the people who do this in jail is positive effect of imperialism because by doing so others will start realizing that throwing away their twins is bad and that that belief is ridiculous. Imperialism helped had a positive effect on Africa because it helped get rid of ridiculous beliefs.
“Mr. Brown’s school produced quick results. A few months in it were enough to make one a court messenger or even a clerk. Those who stayed longer became teachers” (179-178).
Imperialism had a positive effect on African villages. Mr. Brown’s school helped the Africans improve their education and learn new things. By going to school you also gained the opportunity of getting a good job. Imperialism had a positive effect on Africa because it improved education and opened opportunities to get better jobs.
1) “Because of what happened during my absence. I have been told a few things but I cannot believe them until I have heard your own side. Let us talk like friends and find a way of ensuring that it does not happen again” (Achebe 193).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive impact on African villages. Before imperialism Umuofia didn’t have any fair laws, their law was if you did something bad you have to pay the price mostly with blood. Just like when Ikemufuna was sacrificed by a village to pay a price for a murder, even though Ikemufuna had nothing to do with the murder. Imperialism made African villages have fair laws and justice, so if something bad happened both sides can share their story. Just like when the Africans burned down the white man’s church, the Africans shared their side of the story just like the white people did. When every body shared their story, the new court decides who is going be punished and what is the punishment.
2) "The white man whose power you know too well has ordered this meeting to stop"(Achebe 204).
Imperialism had a negative impact on African villages. The Africans get together and meet in the market place to discuss problems, and how they could solve them. When the powerful white man orders to stop these meetings, than he doesn’t want the Africans go against him. Imperialism made only one person in charge, he is the one who decides what to do and what not to do. So this means if the African people have a problem against the powerful man, they can’t do anything about it because the people cannot meet.
Mina, for your first quote you must connect your analysis to your quote provided. I am confused on how it connects.
Deletefor the first quote you stated "Just like when the Africans burned down the white man’s church, the Africans shared their side of the story just like the white people did". I would like to say that when the Africans or the village leaders shared their stories, they still were handcuffed.
Delete"There are only two of them. But what of our own people who are following their way and have been given power?"(Achebe 176).
ReplyDeleteBritish imperialism had a negative impact on Okonkwo's village. Two foreign men,the imperialists have came with their religion, Christianity. The white men have changed and influenced many villagers to join their side. Now, the vilage is split and is only loyal to the imperialists or the British and would oppose Okonkwo if he tried to get rid of the imperialists. Imperialism split the village up and changed them to obey and follow the British. Aneto,a villager killed Oduche in a fight for land and prepared to flee. However, the influenced villagers who turned Christian told the imperialists to catch him and in the end, Aneto died (Achebe 177). Imperialism influenced Okonkwo's village negatively in the social aspect because they opposed their own people.
"He had just sent Okonkwo's son, Nwoye, who was now called Isaac, to the new training college for teachers in Umuru (Achebe 182).
The British influence benefitted Okonkwo's village. The imperialist, Mr. Brown created schools in Okonkwo's village. Okonkwo's son, Nwoye,renamed Isaac was going to Umuru to become a teacher. The newly created schools gave the Africans in the village an eduacation. These schools gave many Africans jobs in a few months (Achebe 182). This benefitted Okonkwo's village socially because Africans are getting an eduacation and jobs instead of farming for a living.
"As soon as the district left, the head messenger who was also the prisoners barber took down his razer and shaved off all the hair on the men's heads." (Achebe 194-195
ReplyDeleteThis shows an impact in Africa for many reasons. Africans are now shown the harshness of the British. The British show how their more power than the Africans that impact them negatively. The British are now hurting the Africans by the harsh treatment they are giving them. They are using their power unfairly which impacts the Africans in a negative way.
"He mourned for the clan, which he saw breaking up and falling apart...." (Achebe 176)
This shows how imperialism has had a negative quote on Africa for many reason. The Africans had been a close community but now the British have changed that. When there are now views of clans falling apart, everyone has now changed. The people don't have the unity and happiness they had in their clans before. This is how imperialism has impacted the African communities negatively.
1)“But apart from the church, the white men had also brought a government. They built a court where the District Commissioner judged cases in ignorance” (174).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact on the African village. When the imperialists, white men, came to the village of Umuofia, they established many new things including a new form of government. As the quote tells us, the Direct Commissioner, also a white man, conducted the trials but judged cases in ignorance. Before the imperialists came, the two units of government of the village were the council of elders and the gathering of the whole tribe. This form of government was a cultural practice of the Ibo, but after the Imperialists came, this practice was diminished and replaced by the white men’s form of government. Therefore, imperialism had a negative impact on the African village of Umuofia because a cultural practice was lost.
2)”New churches were established in the surrounding villages and a few schools with them” (182).
Imperialism had a positive impact on the African village. After the imperialists had come to Umuofia, they established churches and schools. Churches allowed for a new form of religion to be in that village. The poor, the outcast, and even the worthy people of the village converted to this new religion. Those who were not in favor of the beliefs of the tribe could now find refuge in a new faith. Also, the introduction of school was just as beneficial to the African village. The schools that were built by the imperialists produced quick results. The people of Umuofia could now become a court messenger, a court clerk, or even a teacher (181-182). The men and women of Umuofia were now educated and literate. Overall, Imperialism had a positive impact on the African village of Umuofia.
'"Does the white man understand our custom about land?"
ReplyDelete"How can he when he does not even speak our tongue? But he says that our customs are bad; and our own brothers who have taken up his religion also say that our customs are bad. How do you think we can fight when our brothers have turned against us? The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart (Achebe 176).
Here, Obierika and Okonkwo are expressing their take on British influence upon their land. The british have changed the original customs, government, and belief system of their land. The British have turned the people of Umuofia against their customs and beliefs. Imperialism had a negative impact on the village of Umuofia. The British have taken control of a land that they are not even familiar with. How can one take over a land that they, themselves don't have much knowledge about? The British came to the village of Umuofia and changed everything about it, and the people of Umuofia have allowed this and forgotten the customs and traditions that they had once lived by. This thus causes for a loss of cultural diffusion.
"And it was not long before the people began to say that the white man's medicine was quick in working. Mr. Brown's school produced quick results. A few months in it were enough to make one a court messenger or even a court clerk" (Achebe 181-182).
Imperialism had a positive impact on the village of Umuofia. A new education system had been established. People now have the chance to enhance their knowledge and find employment for themselves in order to make a profit for. This brings upon significant opportunity for the people in Umuofia who want to get their life back on track. This additionally gives people the opportunity to get themselves out of poverty and promotes independence and the importance and value of knowledge.
“The white man had indeed brought a lunatic religion, but he had also built a trading store and for the first time palm-oil and kernel became things of great price, and much money flowed into Umuofia.” (Achebe 178)
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a positive impact on the African villages. Before the British came to Africa, the villages didn’t have a lot of money. The people of the villages thought that the British didn’t bring anything to them since they had arrived in their land. Since the British the people of the villages have felt that this has been the best thing that they have done for them. The British put prices on the palm-oil and kernel that everybody would be able to buy them. This benefitted the people the villages because they could go to the trading store and buy palm-oil and kernel to feed their families. Also, with all the trading happening, the people of gained more money than before due to the British. Since the British were already advanced in making profits, the British helped the people of Umuofia to gain money.
“Everyone knew that Umuofia was at last going to speak its mind about the things that were happening.” (Achebe 199)
Imperialism had both a negative and positive impact of the African villages. The British had made many changed to the villages of Africa. The people of the villages haven’t been able to speak about how the changes of the British have affected them. This was an opportunity for the people of the villages to speak their minds and tell them their complaints or their thank you’s to the British. This was beneficial to the people of the villages because they had a voice in what was happening in their homeland. On the other hand this could harm them in a way. If the people of the villages would go to the court and talk about all the complaints they have against the changes, it would created tension between the people of the villages and the British. The two countries would go to war, resulting in many deaths in the people of the villages. Since the people of the villages aren’t advanced in technology as the British, the British would destroy them. The British wouldn’t be kind afterwards thinking that the people of the villages are ungrateful in what they have gave the people of the village.
Quotes:
ReplyDelete1)"Mr.Brown begged and argued and prophesied. He said that leaders of the land in the future would be men and women who had learned to read and write."(Achebe 181)
2)"And it was not long before the people began to say that the white man’s medicine was quick in working" (Achebe 181).
Imperialism had a positive impact on Africa. When Okonkwo returned to Umuofia, he saw that the village was different from what he last remembered. The village had gone to the hands of the White men, Mr.Brown. Mr. Brown had built a hospital ans school in Umuofia but it seemed that no one wished to take part of his doings. In order to persuade the villagers, "Mr.Brown begged and argued and prophesied. He said that leaders of the land in the future would be men and women who had learned to read and write."(Achebe 181). His statement made many villagers realize that an education really was necessary in order to succeed. Many of the higher ranked people in the village had the ability to read and write. The school wasn't the only thing benefiting the villagers,"And it was not long before the people began to say that the white man’s medicine was quick in working" (Achebe 181). Mr.Brown's hospital was a success and healed many villagers. The "white man's medicine" worked more efficiently then the villages' old tribal methods. Imperialism had a more positive effect on Africa's society.
"Why did they not fight back? Had they no guns and machetes? We could be cowards to compare ourselves with the men of Abame" (Achebe 175).
ReplyDeleteImperialism had a negative impact to the people of Umofia. People of Umofia were tough and always had fought in wars. They weren't cowards but not until the white guys came and took over Umofia. There was a majority of the people that had converted to Christianity, like Oko's son, Nwoye. Oko considered the people that had converted into Christianity women. It was also the technology that also brought fear into the villagers as the white guys have more complex technology. Imperialism led to Umofia from a fighting tribe to a tribe that are cowards that don't want to fight and resist. They are just letting everything change without a fight. Oko wants to fight because he has pride for his clan unlike the other clans members. Imperialism turned people in Umofia into cowards.
" The man was one of the greatest men of Umofia. You drove him to kill himself; and now he will be buried like a dog..."(Achebe 208)
Imperialism really had a negative effect on the people of Umofia. They lost the greatest man of Umofia. They lost the voice of Umofia. They lost the warrior of Umofia. The white man coming over to Umofia lead to this disaster. The white men took all the confidence away from the people of Umofia because they didn't want to fight back. Oko, who has the pride of the warrior, wanted to fight as he killed a guard but no one else did. This shows that Oko is a warrior that is trying to resist whether he is by himself or he has his clansmen. In this case, he was alone. Oko didn't like the changes that the white men were doing to the people of Umofia and he wanted resistance. Since the people in Umofia were cowards and what the white guys were doing to their people, Oko had to kill himself to show that he still has pride for his village. That's how imperialism had a negative effect to the people of Umofia.
1) “Seven years was a long time to be away from one’s clan. A man’s place was not there, waiting for him. As soon as he left, someone else rose and filled it. The clan was like a lizard; if it lost its tail it soon grew another.”(Achebe 171)
ReplyDeleteImperialism impacted African villages negatively. When Okonkwo returned to the village seven years later, he noticed that the social hierarchy changed drastically. Earlier, the strongest warriors and the best farmers were the wealthiest and earned the most respect or “titles”. After he returned, Okonkwo noticed that the church’s power grew and the imperialists or white men took control of the village. African villages were impacted negatively because of the change in social class since the people skilled at their jobs could no longer earn as much. Even though they worked hard and specialized, they could no longer compete or attain a higher status than the imperialists. Therefore, African villages were impacted by imperialism negatively since the citizens of the villages instantly lost power when the imperialists took over.
2) “Okonkwo and his fellow prisoners were set free as soon as the fine was paid. The District Commissioner spoke to them again about the great queen, and about peace and good government.”(Achebe 198)
Imperialism also impacted African villages positively. Even though Okonkwo and many others were sent to prison and had to pay a fine, this was all new to the African villages. Previously, the African villages thought irrationally and sent their troubles into “the evil forest” since they didn’t want to offend different gods/spirits. After the imperialists took control, they influenced the citizens by making them think more rationally. In other words, the imperialists shared ideas about their government and beliefs while controlling people physically by establishing prisons. Therefore, African villages were impacted by imperialism positively since the citizens were taught how to think with more logic and reason instead of basing all of their beliefs solely on spirits and gods.