C
Chinua Achebe
Africa's most famous and illustrious black novelist. Nigerian born writer of powerful fiction, poetry, literary criticism, and children's books
Arrow of God
Synopsis
In 1921 Eastern Nigeria, Ezeulu, the revered Chief Priest of Ulu, faces a crisis of authority as British colonial influence challenges the ancient traditions of his Igbo village. When he sends his son to learn the ways of the white man, it ignites a conflict between old beliefs and new, leading to tragic consequences for his family and community. This story captures the vibrant spirit of African village life and the profound impact of cultural collision.
Genres
Characters
EzeuluProtagonist
Captain WinterbottomAntagonist
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to read the other books in The African Trilogy first?
These novels are interconnected by their shared exploration of colonial impact on Igbo society rather than a continuous plot, so they can be read independently without losing the narrative thread.
What is the significance of the title Arrow of God?
The title originates from an Igbo proverb where a person or event is considered to represent the will of God, reflecting the protagonist Ezeulu's own belief that he serves as an instrument for his deity.
Is this book based on real historical events?
Achebe drew inspiration from various historical sources, including colonial administrative papers, archaeological findings, and local oral accounts regarding the imprisonment of traditional leaders during the early twentieth century.
