comment obsession with proving and preserving his manliness dominate okonkwo both private and public life

Okonkwo defines himself through "masculinity". Whether it is through wrestling, Yam ownership, or killing his adoptive son, Okonkwo is always validating himself through masculinity. Okonkwo's view of masculinity really affects his son Nwoye. Nwoye is sensitive and thoughtful. Okonkwo sees this as feminine. Okonkwo humiliates his son which eventually drives Nwoye to the Christian Church. Okonkwo strived to overcompensate for his father who he felt was weak and pathetic. Masculinity hence became measured in Yam crops, wife numbers and of course battle.