1. How is masculinity defined throughout the novel? How does this definition shape the development of
characters and the ultimate outcome of the novel? What might Achebe be asserting about the Ibo (and many
other cultures) definition of masculinity? Does the traditional definition of masculinity need to change?
Why?

his is only a short answer space but I can give you a general answer. "Manliness" , to Okonkwo, is tied up with matters of physical power and prowess. The hiding of feelings is also an important part of it. Masculinity is one of Okonkwo's obsessions, and he defines masculinity quite narrowly. For him, any kind of tenderness is a sign of weakness and effeminacy. Male power lies in authority and brute force. But throughout the novel, we are shown men with more sophisticated understanding of masculinity. Okonkwo's harshness drives Nwoye away from the family and into the arms of the new religion.

Explanation:

the difference between an explicit and implicit meaning is that the explicit meaning of a poem is that the detail is exactly defined. nothing is left to interpretation. an implicit meaning is an implied meaning. kabir's poetry is both explicit and implicit in that it can be interpreted on different levels. the explicit meaning leaves nothing to interpretation while the implicit meaning leaves lots open to interpretation. an example of this is found in the poem "rumi and the spiritual lover".