Thesis Statement

With reference to Things Fall Apart, show how sub-plots or secondary characters contribute to the reader’s understanding and appreciation of the work as a whole.

In the novel 'Things Fall Apart', it is evident that Chinua Achebe shines the spotlight primarily on Okonkwo's character, however it is crucial to mention that many of the other secondary characters surrounding Okonkwo are what manufactured him into the dominant and egotistical male figure he is shown to be. Okonwko is portrayed as a tragic hero in the novel; even though his father, Unoka, is not present throughout the novel, he is incredibly acknowledged and blamed. The secondary characters in the novel all contribute to eventually lead Okonkwo to his own downfall towards the end of the novel.