The Struggle to be Liked

The Ibo culture is not exactly the same as ours, yet it has many similar ideas. For one, it emphasizes the idea of hard work will lead to respect and riches. Everyone, no matter from what family, can work their way to the top such as Okankwo. The pressure to fit in with the successful people of the Ibo culture drive Okankwo to be meticulous about the many aspects of living a respectable life. He is in a constant struggle to follow the proper manners and etiquette to be viewed highly. Also, just like in America laziness is not tolerated and is viewed poorly. Key similarities in our culture make the Ibo people look way ahead of their time.
The Ibo stress a strong code of manners of etiquette that is quite impressive. The people focus on being hospitable and treat all their guests as if Gods. They treasure palm wine and the kola nut. They are seen as gifts of hospitality and respect. That tradition is in America today. For example, whenever my dad is invited to an important dinner he will probably take over a bottle of a wine as a sign of respect. It is amazing to see traditions last so long throughout history. Also, when the Ibo have guests they make them their favorite foods and put them in front of everything. It is the same as the present time. Typically, when people have guests, they act differently in order to keep them happy and they share with them. Although the Ibo people are not as strong as a force as before, their human traditions and values are ever so present.
Another similar and key comparison is the Ibo’s idea of a success. It is analogous to the “American dream”. That is that hard work and kind-heartedness will make a person highly viewed and honored. Just like in Ibo times, today being in debt, (such as Okwanko’s father), is seen poorly. People who depend on others rather than achieve their own success are never honored no matter what day and age they are living in. It is fascinating to see how humans, no matter what technological state they are in, will tend to want to achieve the same mold of being successful through hard work. These pressures and cultural ideals force people, such Okwanko, to try to achieve perfection. Some people succeed, others have problems such as how Okwanko is irrationally harsh on his kids to not be like his dad. The ideals, although seeking goodness, do not always fit for everyone.
The similarities between our culture and the Ibo culture help emphasize key, primal values of humans. When people shed off their labels such as Ibo or American or whatever, it is apparent that they are all looking for the same thing: to fit in. Okwanko’s character shows that beautifully as his dislike for his father drives him to be perfect.