Analysis

An analysis of the short story “Ghosts” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shows that it follows a mainly chronological plot structure. Several flashbacks point to events in the past that still impact the characters.

The main character is James Nwoye, who is also the narrator of the story. Another important character is Ikenna, who until then James believes has been killed in the war.

The physical setting is Nsukka, in Nigeria. The time setting alternates between the present and 1967, when the Nigerian Civil War broke out. The meeting between James and Ikenna takes place on the university campus, which has an important significance for the characters.

The events are told from the point of view of a first-person narrator. Many times, the narrator introduces his own reflections and memories in the story, showing that he has strong ties to the past.

The language is formal, showing the character’s educated background. Descriptive passages an insight into the narrator’s nostalgia and his frequent reflections about the past. 

You can read a more detailed analysis in the following pages.

Excerpt

Below, you can read an excerpt from our study guide: