What is the importance of personal achievements in the society in Things Fall Apart?

We can see
the importance of personal achievements in Igbo society from Okwonko's life. Ashamed of what he
considers his own father's lack of manliness, integrity and initiative, Okwonko strives to
maintain his own identity apart from his father's legacy.

Although he is
excessively demanding and controlling with his wives and children, Okwonko's tribal warrior
feats, wrestling victories, and wealth cause his fellow villagers to greatly esteem him. He is
also a physically imposing man with no patience for weakness or what he considers effeminate
behavior.

Age was respected among his people, but
achievement was revered.

With all his accomplishments,
Okwonko becomes the man chosen to house , the young man exchanged by the neighboring village of
Mbaino for the death of an Umuofian woman. He is also the "proud and imperious emissary of
war" the people of Umuofia choose to represent their village in the war negotiations with
Mbaino. The Mbaino negotiators treat him with respect and honor because of his grand
accomplishments and his place in Umuofian society.

Personal achievements are
so much revered in Igbo society that not even the gods will tolerate laziness and lack of
initiative. When , Okwonko's father, complains to the priestess of the Oracle that ill-luck has
plagued him all his life, the priestess refuses to help him. Instead, she berates him for his
sloth and lack of ambition and tells him to "go home and work like a man." In a
society where survival is dependent on work, indolence is rarely tolerated. Personal
achievements are respected because the resourcefulness and accomplishments of each member of
society contribute to the prosperity and reputation of whole villages.

Hope
this helps!