Chapter of Wonder by David Selvala

In the beginning of chapter 4 Okonkwo is given the custody of a young boy named Ikemefuna. At first the boy is scared and dislikes living in Okonkwo's house but grows to like it. Okonkwo grows fond of the boy, but he does not show it. Okonkwo never shows emotion because he believes showing affection is a sign of weakness. His desire to be strong and masculine causes him to believe he is greater than he is and he is obsessed with proving his masculinity. Later in the chapter Okonkwo beats his wife Ojiugo. He does this during the week of peace and one of the clan's elders stands up to him and forces him to make a large sacrifice. Okonkwo follows his commands and makes the sacrifice. This shows how even though Okonkwo thinks he is mighty and powerful the clan is still able to keep him in check.
"Inwardly, he was repentant. But he was not the man to go abut telling his neighbors that he was in error." (p. 31)