Comparative essay on things fall apart, give your personal evaluation or opinion or judgment comparing how you view PNG 20th century practices to that of the 21^th century?

In Chinua Achebe's novel "Things Fall Apart," the protagonist Okonkwo struggles to maintain his traditional way of life in the face of colonialism and modernization. The novel highlights the clash between traditional Igbo practices and the influence of Western culture, ultimately leading to the downfall of Okonkwo and his community.

When comparing the practices depicted in "Things Fall Apart" to those of Papua New Guinea in the 20th century, it is clear that both societies faced similar challenges in preserving their cultural heritage in the face of outside influences. Like the Igbo people in the novel, the people of Papua New Guinea have had to navigate the complexities of modernization while trying to hold onto their traditional customs and beliefs.

In my opinion, the 20th century practices of Papua New Guinea and the Igbo people in "Things Fall Apart" share a common struggle in adapting to the changes brought about by colonization and globalization. Both societies have had to grapple with the impact of Western values and technologies on their way of life, leading to a sense of cultural dislocation and loss.

However, I believe that the 21st century offers new opportunities for Papua New Guinea to reclaim and revitalize its cultural heritage. With advancements in technology and communication, there are more avenues for preserving and sharing traditional practices and knowledge. Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the importance of indigenous cultures and the need to protect and promote their unique identities.

Overall, while the challenges faced by Papua New Guinea in the 20th century may have been similar to those of the Igbo people in "Things Fall Apart," I am hopeful that the 21st century will bring new possibilities for celebrating and preserving traditional practices in Papua New Guinea and other indigenous communities around the world.

Things Fall Apart: A Comparative Essay on 20th and 21st Century Papua New Guinea Practices

Chinua Achebe's seminal novel, "Things Fall Apart," offers a compelling portrayal of Igbo society in pre-colonial Nigeria. By drawing parallels between the pre-colonial and 20th/21st century practices in Papua New Guinea (PNG), this essay will explore how traditional customs and values have both evolved and endured.

Traditional Rituals and Ceremonies

In "Things Fall Apart," communal rituals, such as the Weekly Market and the Feast of the New Yam, are integral to Igbo society. These rituals connect individuals to their ancestors, reaffirm community bonds, and provide opportunities for socialization. In PNG during the 20th century, traditional ceremonies such as the Sing-Sing and the Kula exchange continued to play a vital role in maintaining cultural heritage and promoting inter-tribal relations.

However, in the 21st century, the influence of Christianity and globalization has led to a decline in the participation in some traditional rituals in PNG. While urban areas have witnessed a shift towards Westernized celebrations, rural communities still hold on to traditional practices, albeit with some modifications.

Authority Structures

"Things Fall Apart" depicts a hierarchical society where elders, such as Okonkwo, wield significant influence and are respected for their wisdom and experience. Similarly, in traditional PNG societies, the role of chiefs and clan leaders was pivotal in maintaining order and settling disputes.

During the 20th century, the introduction of Western-style governance systems in PNG led to a gradual shift in authority structures. However, traditional leadership continues to play a complementary role, especially in rural areas. Modern PNG leaders often seek the counsel of traditional chiefs before making decisions.

Gender Roles

In both "Things Fall Apart" and traditional PNG societies, gender roles were clearly defined. Women were primarily responsible for domestic duties, such as farming, cooking, and childcare. Men, on the other hand, held positions of authority and dominated public life.

In the 21st century, PNG has witnessed progress towards gender equality. Women have made significant strides in education, employment, and politics. However, traditional gender roles still persist to some extent, particularly in rural areas.

Personal Evaluation

Comparing PNG practices in the 20th and 21st centuries to those depicted in "Things Fall Apart," it is evident that while some customs and values have evolved, others have remained deeply rooted. Traditional rituals and ceremonies have adapted to changing times, but their underlying significance remains unchanged.

The shift towards Western-style governance systems has not completely eclipsed the importance of traditional leadership. Chiefs and clan leaders continue to play a vital role in PNG society, even as the government assumes primary responsibility for maintaining order and providing services.

Gender roles have experienced significant change, with women now enjoying greater opportunities and influence. However, traditional gender expectations still exert an influence, especially in certain communities.

In conclusion, the comparison between "Things Fall Apart" and PNG practices in the 20th and 21st centuries highlights the resilience of traditional customs and values while acknowledging the transformative effects of globalization and modern governance. PNG's rich cultural heritage continues to inform and shape its society, even as it adapts to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.