Okonkwo, the protagonist in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, has three wives: his first wife (often referred to as Nwoye's mother), Ekwefi, and Ojiugo.
Okonkwo's Household and Wives
In the traditional Igbo society depicted in Things Fall Apart, a man's status and wealth were often reflected in the size of his compound and the number of wives he could support. Okonkwo, a respected and prosperous man, maintained a polygamous household with three wives, each living in her own hut within his compound. He viewed his wives primarily as his property, reducing their value to servitude within the household structure.
The Three Wives of Okonkwo
Okonkwo's wives play significant roles in the domestic life of his compound and in the upbringing of his children. They are:
| Wife's Name / Description | Order / Role in Family | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Okonkwo's First Wife | First wife | Often referred to as Nwoye's mother. |
| Ekwefi | Second wife | The mother of Ezinma, Okonkwo's favorite child. |
| Ojiugo | Youngest and third wife | Okonkwo's most recent wife. |
Each wife, along with her children, had a specific place and responsibilities within Okonkwo's compound, contributing to the family's daily life and communal activities.
