Religion- throughout the novel religion is a main focus to the Umofia tribe. They believe in the oracle which guides their beliefs and helps them make many decisions. In addition, they have a strong emphasis on the belief of many gods that help them in different ways. Yet as the novel progresses their religion and beliefs are challenge by the "white" people who are missionaries looking to convert the people of Umofia and neighboring villages to Christianity. As the novel unravels and comes to an end there are constant challenges to their beliefs and ideas in relation to god and religion.

Philosophy- In the novel Things Fall Apart the philosophies believed for many years by the villagers is constantly challenged as missionaries arrive. A constant debate arises between the villagers of whether to keep the old or take in the new. Their beliefs in the oracle and the evil forest become doubtful as the missionaries are able to succeed living in the "Evil Forest." Thus a theme of whether it is better to keep the old or bring in the new arises.