Essay on Christianity vs. Animism in Achebes Things Fall...

Christianity vs. Animism in Achebes Things Fall Apart A major aspect of one’s society is religion. Without it, the way people hold themselves accountable would be nonexistent. In addition, many moral standards that exist today are values taken directly from religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Currently, there exists a feud between people who believe in a god, and of those who do not. Eventually those who believe in a higher power will fight against each other. In â€Å"Things Fall Apart†, Chinua Achebe brings to light the differences and similarities of Christianity and Animism in order to demonstrate the effects of religion upon one’s society, which is exemplified by Okonkwo and his people. This is noticed in the lives of†¦show more content†¦As a result, many of these half-heartedly committed members are held unaccountable for their actions and rely on precedents set by their ancestors and elders, unlike Christians whose laws are explained in the bible. Mr. Smith’s successor, Mr. Br own, also demonstrated a difference in that the God of Christians is to be proclaimed as a loving god who is to be feared only when His will is not done. On the other hand, Animism’s followers live in fear of their gods’ wrath and suffer spiritually, mentally, and emotionally for their gods’ happiness, â€Å"’You said one interesting thing,’ said Mr. Brown. ‘ You are afraid of Chukwu. In my religion Chukwu is a loving Father and need not be feared by those who do His will’† (180 – 181). Mr. Brown subtly brings up a theological paradox that is, â€Å"What is the point of living for a god that must be feared?† This difference greatly affects the Animistic and Christian way of life. Christians are to spread the word of God, serve their fellow men, and repent, and in doing this they need not fear God. Animists, specifically the Ibo, are to dedicate themselves to their chi or personal god, make sacrifices to their gods, and hope that their gods are not angry with them. Surprisingly, there is a similarity throughout all of this diversity. A major part of their religions is the belief in one God that created everything. Animists believe in Chukwu, who created everything including the other