Albert Achebe

Born on November 16th 1930, Albert Achebe is a novelist and a poet. His book Things Fall Apart received much attention throughout the African community and is one of the most famous books in African literature. Achebe incorporates the Igbo society’s traditions in many of his works. Folk stories, and lessons are taught through short stories and many children’s books.

Achebe’s parents were both converts in the Protestant church Mission. Many of his mother’s teachings are incorporated in his stories. The Igbo tradition is heavily formulated by many proverbs. One proverb entitled, “Mother is Supreme” shows us how the Igbo’s feel towards their mothers. Achebe’s writings are in full conventional English and Achebe is considered to be one of the most highly esteemed African writers in English.

Achebe attended the first university opened in Nigeria known as the University College. He studied English, theology, and history. In 1950, Achebe wrote his famous, “Polar Graduate” which began his work as an author. He also wrote his first short story, “In a Village Church.” This story was about the life in Nigeria with Christian themes. Achebe continued to use this style for many of his works soon after.

Achebe’s most famous work is definitely “Things Fall Apart.” This was one of the first African novels to receive global views. It is read and studied in both Europe and North America. This book really shows us a view of what its like to live in a traditional village in Africa. It brings in modern tradition with old Igbo traditions thus serving as an educational book to everyone around the world. It is also a good book because it keeps all of the Igbo’s traditions going in the book. The book itself uses English but at a very good level which is why Achebe’s book is so famous around the world.

Chinua’s work is so high regarded around the world to this day. People study his work all around the world not only learning Christian values, but also are educated on the Igbo people. We can read and see how it is to live in a African Village. Things Fall Apart is an amazing book but gives so much insight into the true 19th century Nigeria. It