Proverbs
"A man who pays respect to the great paves the way for his
own greatness." pg. 19 Meaning: Someone should show respect to those of greater power, so one day he may deserve the respect that he has given to them. Cultural Reference: Respect is something highly regarded in Igbo society between men and women. |
"Those whose palm-kernels were cracked for them by a
benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble." pg. 26 Meaning: Those who have privilege in life, should not forget to be kind, and gracious of what they have. Cultural Reference: During the meeting, Okonkwo disrespected a man by calling him a women. Even though Okonkwo was of higher privilege than the man, he should still treat him with respect. |
"Proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten." pg. 6
Meaning: In African oral culture, palm-oil is something of great importance to them. In this saying, proverbs are the equivalent of palm-oil in the sense of speaking.
Cultural Reference: Proverbs and speaking, in general, is something that is traditionally a huge part of Igbo society.
Meaning: In African oral culture, palm-oil is something of great importance to them. In this saying, proverbs are the equivalent of palm-oil in the sense of speaking.
Cultural Reference: Proverbs and speaking, in general, is something that is traditionally a huge part of Igbo society.