Tradition versus Modernity in Chinua Achebe’s “No Longer at Ease”

Abstract

This paper aims to find elements that point out Achebe’s reinforcement of the difference between African and European ways. “No Longer at Ease” explores the decadence of the modern urban environment which is contrasted with the idea of rural piety and stability. The paper provides an analysis of various instances which point to this opposition and renders Achebe’s position of siding with tradition and even manifesting nostalgia for the past. The conclusion is that the novel can be seen as a display of the conflict between the desire to retain traditional values and the recognition that change and assimilation are absolutely necessary for survival.