Summary

Chinua Achebe’s short story “Dead Men’s Path” starts with Michael Obi, the main character, who is appointed headmaster of Ndume Central School. Obi is chosen for this position because he is educated, and his ideas are modern rather than based on tradition.

Obi’s wife, Nancy, is also happy about his promotion. Nancy embraces modernity just like her husband. She imagines herself as the center of attention when Obi starts work, thinking that she will be envied by the other teachers’ wives. However, her dream is shattered when she hears that Michael’s colleagues are unmarried. She does not change her attitude, wishing not to give up the happiness that comes with her husband’s promotion. Nancy decorates the school garden with various types of flowers.

After ...