In "Things Fall Apart," what does Okonkwo's suicide symbolize?

In "Things Fall Apart," Okonkwo's suicide serves as a powerful symbol of the self-destruction of Igbo culture. It reflects the disintegration of traditional values and societal structures resulting from colonial influence and the changes it brings. Okonkwo, as a character, embodies the ideals of strength and masculinity cherished in Igbo society. His inability to adapt to the new orders imposed by colonialism ultimately leads him to take his own life, highlighting the despair and hopelessness felt by many individuals in the face of cultural erosion.

This act of taking his life underscores the profound crisis within the Igbo community as they grapple with the conflicting pressures of maintaining their cultural identity while confronting the realities of colonialism. Okonkwo's tragic end symbolizes not just his personal failure but also the broader collapse of the social cohesion that once defined the Igbo world, marking a significant moment of cultural disintegration and the loss of traditional connections.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately align with the thematic core of Okonkwo's suicide. For example, resilience of tradition would suggest a strength that counters the destructive forces at play, while the success of colonialism implies a positive outcome, and the unity of the tribe might indicate a solidarity that is ultimately