THEMES

Whether Change is good or bad.
Throughout the novel there is a constant challenge of whether change is good or bad. Through most of the beggining of the novel the Clan seems to be hesistent to change. Yet as the novel continues and with the arival of christianity what used to be a world of traditions becomes a world of christianity. The clan is shown the belief that there is only one god rather than many and many other ideas that change the way they think.

It is ok to show non masculine features.
Through the main character Okonkwo the reader is soon able to realize the struggles a person has when they are to caught up in showing masculine features. Okonkwo's constant fear of being seen like his father lead him to portray himself as a harsh non sentimental man. Yet, deep inside he knows that he does care specially when he shows affection towards Ikemfuma.

Sometimes it is a good idea to forget the past.
Throughout the book, Okonkwo is haunted by the shadow of his father. He is constantly trying to get past his shadow and finds himself making decisions that he would not make had he not have to overcome his father's mistakes. Thus the author tries to show the reader that they should forget the past.

Old vs New.
As the story goes on, the characters struggle with deciding what is a better choice the new or the old. As missionaries come into town, new ideas and a different religion that challenges the clans custom creates conflicts. Many of the people in the clan are made to choose between new and old.

You don't have to care too much about what others think.
As the novel progresses the reader begans to understand through the eyes of Okonkwo that maybe its not always good to care of what people think. Eventhough Okonkwo does not display these characters most readers will be able to see that if Okonkwo would ignore the talk in the village and what people think he might be able to live more calmly.