Essay on The Madman by Chinua Achebe

 The Madman – Chinua Achebe

Introduction:

In The Madman by Chinua Achebe we have the theme of struggle, determination, identity, conflict,

appearance and perception. The story is narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator and from the

beginning of the story the reader realises that Achebe may be exploring the theme of struggle to be recognised.

Concept of validation:

Despite it being a struggle and a two day journey to Eke the Nwibe is dedicated when it comes to

traveling to the market. He overcomes the obstacles of the lorry drivers on the road who frown upon him

walking in the middle of the road. Also the young children who shout at him as he makes his way to the market.

Nwibe ignores them and remains determined to reach the market. If anything Achebe may be suggesting that

the Nwibe is not only prepared to incur difficulty in order to reach the market but he remains determined

regardless of what may happen. Though ironically at the end of the story what happens him on the way to the

market is life changing in a manner that he does not expect.

Theme of identity:

Achebe also appears to be exploring the theme of appearance. Nwibe longs to be a member of the

honoured hierarchy in the village and there is a sense that by becoming a member of the village hierarchy

Nwibe will be more respected by others. Nwibe believes that the fact that he is wealthy and successful will help

him achieve his goal of having a higher standing in the community. This may be important as it suggests that

appearance is important to Nwibe.

He cares about how he is viewed upon by those who live in the village. Despite the conflict that exists

between two of his wives (Udenkwo and Mgboye) Nwibe is determined to advance within the community. To

be as respected as those who are already part of the local hierarchy. Though again as the story progresses there

is a further sense of irony when it becomes clear to the reader that rather than being respected by the local

hierarchy Nwibe is ignored by them.

Perception of the society:

The conflict that exists between Nwibe’s wives may in many ways be mirrored by the internal conflict

that Nwibe may feel after he is taken home from the market. No one seems to believe his story that his clothes

have been robbed by a madman and instead each character in the story views Nwibe as the one who is mad. If

anything everybody’s perception of Nwibe changes dramatically. No longer is he viewed upon as being a

successful businessman rather he is treated as if he is insane. Even though the reality is very much different. It is

as if Nwibe’s identity itself has been changed due to the perception of others.

How affected Nwibe might be is noticeable by the fact that he no longer acts the same. He becomes

quiet, withdrawn and begins to avoid engaging with those in the village. It is as though he has allowed other

people’s newly developed perception of him dictate who he is. Which may be very natural considering that he

has fallen from quite a height. Having once been respected in the village this is no longer the case.

Conclusion:

The end of the story is also interesting. Despite being cured by a doctor the ozo men do not wish to

associate themselves with Nwibe. Any plans he had to join the ranks of the local hierarchy have been lost. All

due to a misunderstanding. Even though it is clear to the reader that Nwibe is not mad those in authority do not

consider Nwibe to be worthy of membership within their ranks. Not only has Nwibe lost the ability to advance

further within the community but any position that he did hold in the community may also have been lost.