While in Mbanta during his father's exile, Nwoye is forced to convert to Christianity, although his father completely opposes it. Once his father discovers his son's true intentions, Nwoye doesn't hold back. Instead he runs away, finally challenging Okonkwo and his rigid beliefs. Christian influence eventually becomes so impactful and manipulative that schools are introduced or “foreigners would come from other places to rule them” (169). In response, Nwoye truly showed his motivation for the first time since Ikemefuna's death and began attending Christian schools. Overall, the influence of Christian missionaries on Nwoye proved positive. After the arrival of the Westerners, Nwoye gained confidence and understanding, even as he resisted what he had previously known. His whole life had been based on his father's opinions, but Nwoye was finally able to make his own decisions. By choosing to isolate himself from his father, even telling Obierika that Okonkwo "...is not my father" (137), Nwoye grew as a person. Nwoye found the courage to stand up to his father's oppressive government and eventually attended the new college to become a teacher. After the arrival of the Westerners, Nwoye really