Question

How does Achebe employ a third-person narrator to convey the story, and what is the significance of setting the narrative in the village of Umuofia just before the transformative impact of British traders and missionaries begins to unfold?

Answer 1

Achebe uses a third-person narrator in 'Things Fall Apart' to provide an unbiased view of Igbo society, and sets the narrative pre-colonialism to critique and underscore the effects of colonialism on indigenous cultures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chinua Achebe employs a third-person narrator in Things Fall Apart to present an objective view of the Igbo society in Umuofia, allowing readers to see the culture without bias. By setting the narrative just before the arrival of British traders and missionaries, Achebe captures the transformative impact of colonialism, highlighting the clash between traditional Igbo culture and European influences. This approach provides a powerful critique of colonialism and emphasizes the value of indigenous history and experiences.