The egwugwu are a group of masked ancestors in Chinua Achebe’s novel Things Fall Apart. They are central to the traditional Igbo judicial system, representing the collective spirit of the clan’s ancestors. Each egwugwu is a member of the Umuofia clan, and their identities are concealed by elaborate masks and costumes. The role of the egwugwu is to serve as a mediator in disputes, embodying the wisdom and authority of the ancestors.
The egwugwu not only preside over the community’s legal matters but also reinforce the clan’s cultural values and traditions. When they appear during the trial scenes, they invoke respect and instill a sense of order and justice among the villagers. Their decisions are seen as a reflection of ancestral wisdom, and the community is expected to adhere to their rulings without question.
Through the egwugwu, Achebe explores themes of tradition, justice, and the conflict between colonial influence and indigenous practices, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity in the face of change.