The Tragic Hero in Things Fall Apart and Heart of DarknessA tragic hero could be considered a "noble person with a fatal flaw" or "an adversary of society who is willing to take actions that “reasonable people” might applaud but never carry out themselves.” In Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe and Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrads, two characters, Okonkwo and Kurtz, possess qualities that could categorize them among tragic heroes. However, only the reader's interpretation of the characters' actions will determine whether they are tragic heroes or not. In his Ibo society, Okonkwo would certainly be considered a “nobleman.” Not only did he rise from poverty to become one of the leading men of Umuofia, but he was also considered one of the greatest warriors and wrestlers in the country. “Okonkwo was well known throughout the nine villages and even beyond. His fame was based on strong personal achievements,” (Achebe 3). Through his exemplary actions, Okonkwo earned the respect of his compatriots. Okonkwo has also won two titles in his clan and is a member of the egwugwu, which demonstrates his leadership abilities as well as the power and "nobility" he holds in Umuofia. Despite his skills in these areas, Okonkwo has a "fatal flaw". “His whole life was dominated by fear, fear of failure and weakness” (Achebe 13). Unoka, Okonkwo's father, was considered an "agbala", or woman, because he was gentle and not masculine enough. Okonkwo also hated his father because he was embarrassed by him, so his life's passion is to be the opposite of him. Due to this fear, Okonkwo held back his emotions and acted tough, which ultimately made him weak, as a middle of paper ......o seems to have more tragic hero qualities than Kurtz. Achebe had created Okonkwo with a certain nobility, and he definitely had a fatal flaw; his fear of weakness ultimately resulted in his death. Furthermore, Okonkwo had opposed white society and some of his compatriots. However, his clan did not approve of his final act: suicide. As a result, Okonkwo can never be a true tragic hero. Now, Kurtz was never considered a noble man by society's standards and he didn't really have any faults; instead, he had the ability to persuade and manipulate people to his advantage, which would not be a fault for him. Kurtz was a socialite; he opposed some parts while accepting others. Despite this, both characters showed some characteristics of a tragic hero and only reader response can determine their roles..