Important moments in "things fall apart"

When Okonkwo kills the messenger, no one from his community backs him up and eventually, decides to hang himself

This is important because it reveals how the Igbo people although resented the colonists. The fact that the villagers do not back Okonkwo in his decision to murder the messenger continues to build onto the theme idea that the village is adapting to the change whilst Okonkwo isn't. This is reflected in how he decides to hang himself. Lastly, this is important in terms of character because it creates a paradox in the characterisation of Okonkwo. Throughout the novel, he strives to not be seen as weak, strives to masculinity and to avoid at all costs resembling his father. Nevertheless, his death shows that internally, Okonkwo is weaker than he seems. This may reveal that Okonkwo is more concerned with what others think of him, of having a polished reputation

When Nwoye decides to join the Church, efficiently being persuaded by Mr. Brown

This is an important event in terms of theme and context. The fact that Nwoye is changing religions portrays that there exist cracks in Umuofian society and therefore, foreshadows to how things will fall apart once. In terms of context, Nwoye could be seen to have connections with Achebe himself as he it is between western and Igbo culture. This can be connected to the idea of the paths Nigerians may chose to tread upon independence so either, adopt western and Nigerian traits, or be completely inflexible to Igbo culture. It can be thus concluded that Nwoye represents that cultural flexibility. In terms of conflict, this event also is important because it continues to stress how Umuofia will fall apart. This point is pivotal because the son of one of the strongest men of Umuofia has efficiently been persuaded by the 'enemy'.

When Okonkwo borrows seed yams from Nwakibie

This serves as a strong characterization point for Okonkwo as his endurance of raising his produce shows his determination for making a name for himself in Umuofia. The fact that he also did it to avoid being like his father emphasises the fear of being seen as weak.