Portrayal of Masculinity in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart

The paper investigates the construction and representation of masculinity in Chinua Achebe‟s Things Fall Apart. The study digs underneath the structure and tradition of Igbo culture which celebrates the customs centered on male dominance. The protagonist, Okonkwo turns to be the major focus of study who tries to maintain all the traits of masculinity with strict application. His extreme „macho man‟ life rejects any practice which might associate him with his father. The text offers the motives behind Okonkwo‟s sheer concern regarding preservation of male dominance. Achebe‟s narrative of Okonkwo‟s character associating description of physical power, wealth, authority and violence portrays the masculinity in Things Fall Apart. The description of wrestling, battles, yam feasts or Clan meeting upholds the supremacy of males sending all other ideals to the periphery.