The village of Umuofia readies for the Feast of the New Yam, marking the pre-harvest season. Okonkwo, though, prefers farm work over festivities. His suppressed anger erupts when he thinks someone harmed his banana tree, leading to a severe beating of his second wife, Ekwefi, and a reckless display with a gun. Despite this, the festival is embraced with joy, including by Ekwefi, who anticipates the wrestling matches. Okonkwo's family eagerly prepares for the feast, though his affection for his daughter Ezinma contrasts with his harshness toward her.