Analysis of the Foil in the Short Story Dead Mens Path
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Nowadays, our society increasingly values the concept of respecting others and of being open to those who differ from us in nationality, culture and religion. Indeed, in a multi-cultural society, we need to learn to respect others, since so many of us think differently and practice varied customs and religions. Unfortunately, some still do not respect the beliefs of others or even the right of individuals to have their own beliefs. In his short story "Dead Men's Path,"Chinua Achebe depicts this kind of narrow disrespect. His protagonist, Michael, a headmaster at a missions school, mocks the religion of the village priest. The author depicts Michael and the priest as very different people, using the priest as a foil to the headmaster to demonstrate the importance of dealing with those of a different faith and culture with respect and open-mindedness.
The priest is traditional and respectful. His traditional ways are evident when he explains to Michael the importance of the path for the villagers. He hopes to help the young man see his point of view. To encourage Michael to reopen the path, the priest explains, "This path was here before you were born and before your father was born...