Chinua Achebe was recognized for defining a modern African literature by publishing one of his first novels, Things That Fall Apart. Achebe's publication of this novel made an important contribution to world literature and is often compared to the great Greek tragedies. Things Fall Apart is the simple story of a "strong man" named Okonkwo. He was an influential clan leader in Umuofia village. His life is tragically dominated by fear and anger due to the reflection of his father's life. In Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe portrays fear as a theme, which affects the characters unfavorably. Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine surrounding villages. He became famous thanks to his personal successes. At just eighteen years old she brought honor to her village by winning a wrestling match against Amalinze, who was a great fighter because she had not had a match for seven years. After about twenty years, Okonkwo's fame grew enormously. Okonkwo was a man without patience, which included a lack of patience for the memories of his father Unoka, who had died ten years earlier. Unoka is described as lazy, improvident, and a great failure in the eyes of his son Okonkwo. He was poor, which meant he didn't have enough to provide food for his family. Because of the way Okonkwo's father was viewed by the Okonkwos, being the main character faces fear throughout the novel. Furthermore, the inhabitants of Umofia were also victims of fear. The people of Umofia continue to live their lives in fear, worshiping their gods and constantly making sure no one breaks the rules. Upsetting a god can lead to harm or death of a tribe member or family. In Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe portrays fear as a thematic element that affects the character's life unfavorably.