Set against the backdrop of a British colony in West Africa during the 1940s, Graham Greene's narrative intricately weaves themes of colonialism, personal conflict, and moral dilemmas. The protagonist, Major Scobie, navigates the complexities of his professional duties and personal life in a setting fraught with cultural intersections and ethical ambiguity. Each location within the novel not only serves as a backdrop but also illuminates the internal and external struggles of the characters.

West African Colony

The unnamed British colony depicted in Greene's novel is evocative of Sierra Leone, where Greene himself once served. Here, Major Scobie serves as a deputy commissioner in the police force amidst the vibrant and contrasting elements of colonial life. The British imperial presence is palpable in the secretariat, a symbol of control and governance, yet it exists alongside the lively local culture characterized by African women in colorful attire and clerks heading to church with their families. This setting highlights the dualities and tensions between the ruling British and the indigenous people, creating a backdrop for Scobie's internal conflicts.

Scobie, deeply familiar with the colony, chooses to remain despite his career stagnation upon being bypassed for promotion. His intimate knowledge of the place contrasts sharply with the bureaucratic disappointment he faces, illustrating a personal and professional crossroads. The interplay of the tropical environment, Scobie's loyalty, and his thwarted ambitions lays a foundation for the novel's exploration of personal downfall.

Scobie’s House

Residing in a home built for a Syrian trader near a swamp, Scobie lives with his wife, Louise, in conditions that amplify their marital discord. After losing their government bungalow in the European quarter, Louise's dissatisfaction grows, exacerbated by Scobie's stagnant career. Her longing to move to South Africa for a fresh start signifies her alienation from the colony that Scobie, in stark contrast, has come to tolerate, if not cherish. This domestic setting becomes a microcosm of the larger conflict, reflecting the strains in their relationship and Scobie's gradual isolation.

Bamba

In the town of Bamba, Scobie is assigned the grim task of retrieving the body of a fellow officer, Pemberton, who has committed suicide. The journey inland, with its challenging river crossings, symbolizes a turning point for Scobie, foreshadowing his own tragic end. In Bamba, Scobie encounters Yusef, a Syrian merchant with dubious connections, who offers Scobie a loan. This pivotal interaction propels Scobie into a web of corruption and moral compromise, intensifying the novel's suspense through the interwoven themes of espionage and betrayal.

Nissen Huts

The nissen huts, modest government accommodations by the coast, house Wilson, Harris, and Helen Rolt—a widow with whom Scobie embarks on an adulterous affair. While initially perceived as a safe refuge, the hut becomes a nexus of deceit, challenging Scobie's ethical boundaries. Wilson, with ulterior motives, uses his proximity to these huts to spy on Yusef, drawing Scobie further into a world of intrigue and espionage. The close quarters and intense scrutiny create an atmosphere of mistrust, contributing to the novel's climax through the demise of Scobie's servant, Ali, and Scobie's eventual suicide.