"Dead Men's Path" Irony

Chinua Achebe's "Dead Men's Path" significantly portrays the use of  dramatic irony. As the story takes off, the reader is lead to believe Michael Obi's move to the new school will be a positive result, rather than negative. Achebe describes Michael as young, energetic, full of great ideas, and ready to take on the roll. Michael later states to his wife that their participation in the school will cause everything to be "modern and delightful." Him and his wife seem to be sure their move will impact the school for the better. Although,as readers we get a hint of the dramatic irony that takes place when the wife becomes skeptical of the move. Later, as the confrontation between Michael and the priest occurs, we can further assume something negative will most likely be an outcome. Sure enough, this guess is confirmed when the path is torn up the day the Supervisor comes to inspect. Even so, Michael is blindsided. He believes he has solved the problem and the Supervisor will be pleased. Thus, this is an excellent example of dramatic irony.