Why are the villagers shocked when Okonkwo beats his wife during the Week of Peace?

The villagers are shocked when Okonkwo beats his wife during the Week of Peace in Chinua Achebe's novel "Things Fall Apart" because the Week of Peace is a sacred and revered period in Igbo culture, during which all forms of violence and conflict are strictly prohibited. It is a time for peaceful reflection and unity among the community members. Okonkwo's action not only violates this cherished tradition but also reflects a blatant disregard for the deeply-rooted values and customs of his society. His act of aggression against his wife demonstrates a dangerous arrogance and lack of self-control, causing a profound sense of astonishment and disappointment among the villagers who expected him, as a respected leader, to uphold the sacred customs of their community.

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