English 122                                                  Things Fall Apart  Essay                           Valanne              Select ONE of the following topics. 1.   Father-son relationships play an important part in Ibo culture and in the novel. How does the father-son relationship throughout three generations shape the personalities of Okonkwo, and Nwoye? Comment on their characteristics and the role their father plays in making them who they are.   2.      "The story of Okonkwo is in a way the story of all men; he pays a price because he places too much emphasis on strength and manliness." Discuss this quote as it applies to both the novel and our own modern culture.   3.      The power of religion can both guide a society and destroy it. Discuss the ways in which Christianity, as promoted by the missionaries, does both.   4.      One of the themes of Achebe's novel is the striving after titles, trophies, and status in general. Write an essay commenting on the presence and importance of status symbols in Okonkwo's world and today's world. Explain their appeal and the way in which searching for status symbols is a negative force in life.         This is not a personal essay.  Support what you say.  Use discussion - talk about and explain your thoughts and ideas.   Include a detailed works cited page.   Your essay MUST be typed (font 12, Times New Roman, double space).  Your essay MUST follow MLA formatting.  Essay length: 6 typed pages (not including cover page and work cited page).  Value = 100.  Spelling and mechanics count for 30%.  MLA format counts for 20%   AVOID PLAGIARISM DUE:  May 22