Today in English class I started thinking about something—why exactly is Ezinma Okonkwo's favorite child? I'm sure there are a ton of reasons (explored and unexplored in the novel), not to mention the fact that some people just mesh better than others. I think it's especially interesting that Okonkwo's favorite child is a girl, which indicates to me that he didn't consciously choose her to be his favorite. After all, he often wishes (aloud) that Ezinma were a boy.
So why exactly is she the favorite? I started thinking about her upbringing and everything we know about her. First of all, she is an only child whose mother is very attached to her (having lost nine other children). Not only is her mother extremely protective, but her mother also treats her daughter differently than other parents probably do. They have a relationship based on mutual respect and equality, which is odd considering Ezinma's only about 10 years old. Ezinma's relationship with her mother has likely shaped her personality, and her personality is one of the main reasons Okonkwo likes her so much. Ezinma possesses so many of the "masculine" (by Igbo standards) traits Okonkwo admires. She's independent, strong-willed, and (seemingly) fearless.
It's ironic that Okonkwo likes her so much because he believes in subduing and controlling women, but his connection to her seems to stem from his subconscious. He's drawn to her despite the fact that he holds males in much higher regard than their female counterparts. Their relationship is definitely imbued with mystery.
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2 comments:
This is such an interesting analysis, and something that has been on my mind too! it always seemed odd that his favorite child was a girl since he seemingly detested women so much. I whole heartedly agree with you explanation, but would like to add on to it further. As you pointed out, she has a close and respectful relationship with her mother, something Okonkwo never had with either of his parents. He may have seen in her something he had always wanted in his childhood, respect and some sort of connection to his parents. But instead of being jealous, he almost idealizes her childhood. I think his favoritism towards her shows a deeper longing inside him that has carried over from his younger years.
She also has the drive he is trying to instill in his other children by using fear. With her, he doesn’t have to try as hard to make her a good person, because she already has it in her personality. I agree with Elise’s point that it’s something Okonkwo would’ve wanted from his own childhood.
-Sophia
(I know this is anonymous because it’s not letting me log in)
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