Setting

The story “Dead Men’s Path” by Chinua Achebe is set in Ndume, a village in Nigeria. The time setting is after the main character, Michael Obi, is appointed headmaster which happens in January 1949. Most of the action takes place at Ndume Central School, where the cultural conflict develops. 

The school represents the place that Michael Obi and Nancy want to change. They both fantasize about modernizing it. Even before they arrive, Nancy imagines that the school will be better thanks to her and her husband: “We shall have such beautiful gardens and everything will be just modern and delightful”. Michael Obi also has his own vision that he thinks will improve the institution. After Obi became the new headmaster, it is stated that “he had many wonderful ideas...