Changing view of the Igbo lifestyle

When Achebe first revealed different elements of the Igbo culture such as male superiority, the murdering of twin babies, and the outcasting of "weak" individuals, it was easy to automatically disagree with their way of life and since our lifestyle is so different. As I was reading the book, I couldn't believe that Okonkwo almost murdered his wife, and I disliked him on many occasions. However, as I got further and further into the novel, I found that I began to accept the Igbo lifestyle and the actions of the people. I realized that their culture is totally different from my own, so what I have been taught to be wrong is sometimes completely different than the customs that they have been taught their whole lives. The way in which they act is entirely due to the customs and values in place, and the long-standing beliefs in various gods. Additionally, I felt respect for them when they displayed loyalty and love such as when Ekwefi and Okonkwo followed Ezinma over countless miles to make sure she was safe or when Obierika stuck up for Okonkwo and continually visited him when he was exiled. Overall, Achebe is able to change the negative view of the Igbo people throughout the novel and prove that they aren't the cruel, compassionless people that they first appeared to be to the reader and to the European missionaries.