NABTEB 2023 LITERATURE IN ENGLISH ANSWERS(DRAMA & POETRY) ANSWERS

(1)
In Kargbo’s play “Let Me Die Alone several dramatic techniques are employed to enhance the audience’s engagement and the impact of the story. Two of these techniques are symbolism and foreshadowing.

Symbolism is used effectively throughout the play to represent deeper meanings and themes. One example of symbolism is the recurring motif of the bird. The protagonist Mariama has a pet bird that she cares for deeply. This bird symbolizes Mariama’s freedom and her desire for escape from her oppressive and abusive marriage. The bird also represents her vulnerability and fragility as she fears for its safety and well-being. The bird’s fate mirrors Mariama’s own fate and its eventual death foreshadows Mariama’s tragic ending.

Another symbol used in the play is the rain. The rain represents the cleansing and renewal that Mariama wishes for in her life. It is juxtaposed with the drought that plagues her village symbolizing the despair and hopelessness that she feels trapped in. The rain also symbolizes the release of emotions as Mariama often finds solace and comfort in the rain allowing her to release her feelings of pain and longing.

Foreshadowing is another dramatic technique used in “Let Me Die Alone” to create tension and anticipation. One example of foreshadowing is the recurring dreams that Mariama has of her own death. These dreams serve as a warning and foreshadow the tragic fate that awaits her. They also heighten the audience’s sense of impending doom and build suspense throughout the play.

Another instance of foreshadowing is Mariama’s husband’s violent and controlling behavior. From the beginning of the play his possessive and aggressive actions foreshadow the danger that Mariama is in. This foreshadowing creates a sense of unease and anticipation as the audience knows that Mariama’s life is in danger.

In conclusion Kargbo’s “Let Me Die Alone” effectively utilizes dramatic techniques such as symbolism and foreshadowing to enhance the storytelling and engage the audience. Symbolism through the use of the bird and rain adds deeper meaning and conveys the themes of freedom vulnerability and renewal. Foreshadowing through dreams and the husband’s behavior builds tension and creates a sense of impending tragedy. These dramatic techniques contribute to the play’s emotional impact and leave a lasting impression on the audience.
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(2)
Gbanja is a significant character in Let Me Die Alone a play written by Tamba Gborie Kargbo. As a member of the youth group in a small village Gbanja serves as a symbol of resistance and resilience against oppressive societal norms and expectations.

Gbanja is described as a brave and outspoken young man unafraid to challenge the status quo and advocate for change. He carries an air of confidence and determination which often rallies the other members of the youth group to action. In the play he consistently questions the oppressive practices and traditions that have been deeply ingrained in the village’s culture.

One of Gbanja’s defining traits is his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. He uses his voice to criticize the village elders’ mistreatment of women the marginalized and those considered “outcasts” by society. Through his passionate speeches and acts of defiance Gbanja becomes an influential figure and a catalyst for social change.

Gbanja’s role as a leader is further enhanced by his ability to unite people. He doesn’t discriminate based on gender age or social status but instead brings together a diverse group of individuals who share a common desire for a better future. Through his charisma and persuasive abilities Gbanja motivates others to join him in challenging the injustices prevalent in their community.

Although Gbanja is a force to be reckoned with he is not portrayed as infallible. He experiences moments of doubt and fear especially when faced with resistance and hostility from the village elders. However his resilience and determination never waver. Gbanja’s character illustrates the importance of perseverance and the willingness to stand up for what is right even in the face of adversity.

In summary Gbanja is a crucial character in Let Me Die Alone representing the voice of change and progress in a traditional and conservative setting. His boldness passion and commitment to justice make him an inspirational figure pushing back against oppressive societal norms and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society.

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(3)
In Wole Soyinka’s play “The Lion and the Jewel several dramatic techniques are utilized to enhance the overall storytelling and presentation of the themes and characters. Two notable techniques are symbolism and dramatic irony.

Symbolism plays a significant role in “The Lion and the Jewel” to convey deeper meanings and ideas. For instance the character of Sidi the young village belle symbolizes traditional African culture and beauty. She represents an idealized image of African womanhood untouched by Western influences. On the other hand Baroka the village chief symbolizes the struggle between tradition and modernity. He embodies the waning power of traditional African leaders in the face of Westernization.

Furthermore dramatic irony is effectively employed throughout the play to create tension and engage the audience. One example of dramatic irony is when the audience knows that Sidi is being courted by both Lakunle the schoolteacher and Baroka but Sidi herself is unaware of Baroka’s ulterior motives. This creates suspense as the audience anticipates the moment when Sidi discovers Baroka’s true intentions. The irony lies in the fact that Sidi believes she is in control of the situation while the audience knows otherwise.

Another instance of dramatic irony is when Baroka convinces Sidi that he is impotent while the audience knows that he is not. This showcases Baroka’s cunning and manipulative nature as he uses this ploy to deceive Sidi and undermine her trust in Lakunle. The irony lies in the fact that Baroka’s supposed impotence is used as a means to gain power over Sidi and assert his authority as the village chief.

In conclusion the use of dramatic techniques such as symbolism and dramatic irony in “The Lion and the Jewel” adds depth and complexity to the play. Symbolism helps to convey deeper meanings and represent larger ideas while dramatic irony creates tension and engages the audience by revealing information that the characters are unaware of. These techniques contribute to the overall effectiveness of the play in exploring themes of tradition modernity and power dynamics.

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(4)
Sidi the main female character in Wole Soyinka’s play The Lion and the Jewel possesses several notable character traits that can be critically examined.

Firstly Sidi is portrayed as a beautiful and young village girl which becomes a significant aspect of her character development. Her physical appearance captures the attention of local men including the village chief and the school teacher Lakunle. This beauty is a source of power for Sidi as she is aware of her attractiveness and uses it to her advantage throughout the play. However it is important to note that her beauty is at times objectified and commodified by the male characters around her thereby limiting her agency and reducing her to a mere object of desire.

Secondly Sidi is depicted as a traditionalist who values her culture and customs. She takes pride in her role as the village belle clinging to her traditional values and rituals. This is evident in her resistance to change particularly when confronted by Lakunle who represents modernity and attempts to challenge established gender roles and customs. Sidi’s adherence to tradition is on one hand a way for her to maintain her identity and sense of belonging. On the other hand it can be seen as a limitation as it restricts her personal growth and agency preventing her from fully embracing new ideas and opportunities.

Additionally Sidi displays a certain level of naivety and innocence in her character. This is seen in her interactions with Baroka the lion-like elderly chief. Sidi initially sees Baroka as a symbol of power and authority giving him the upper hand in their encounters. However as the play unfolds it is revealed that Baroka’s intentions towards Sidi are deceitful as he tries to seduce her for his personal gain. Sidi’s innocence and lack of awareness make her vulnerable to manipulation by the male characters further reinforcing patriarchal power dynamics in the play.

Lastly Sidi has a strong sense of self-preservation and a desire for personal independence. Despite her traditionalist beliefs she demonstrates a willingness to adapt and manipulate situations to meet her own needs. For instance she rejects the proposal of marriage from both Baroka and Lakunle seeking a path that allows her to retain agency and freedom. However it can be argued that her pursuit of self-importance sometimes comes at the expense of others demonstrating a questionable moral compass.

In conclusion Sidi’s character in The Lion and the Jewel presents a complex portrayal of a young village girl grappling with beauty tradition naivety and desire for personal agency. While she possesses certain strengths and displays moments of defiance her character also showcases some limitations and vulnerability highlighting the oppressive and restrictive forces she must navigate in a patriarchal society.

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SECTION B: ANSWER ONE QUESTION FROM THIS SECTION

(5)
In August Wilson’s play Fences one of the central themes is racial discrimination and its impact on the lives of African Americans living in 1950s Pittsburgh. The play explores the various forms of discrimination and prejudice that the characters face shedding light on the systemic racism present in society at the time.

Troy Maxson the protagonist of Fences experiences racism throughout his life. As a talented baseball player in his youth he was denied the opportunity to play in the major leagues due to the color barrier in professional sports. This injustice deeply affects Troy who feels that his dream was stolen from him solely because of his race. This discrimination fuels his bitterness and resentment which he often expresses through his interactions with others including his family.

Troy’s son Cory also faces racial discrimination. He is a talented high school football player but faces opposition from his father who believes that the sports world is biased against black athletes. Troy feels that Cory’s dreams of playing football are unrealistic and wants him to focus on more practical endeavors. This clash highlights the generational divide on how to confront and overcome racism with Troy’s experiences leading him to be skeptical of the opportunities available to African Americans.

Another example of racial discrimination is portrayed through the character of Gabriel Maxson Troy’s brother. Gabriel suffered a head injury during World War II and as a result he receives a disability check from the government. This check serves as a form of reparation from the government for the mistreatment of African American soldiers during the war. Gabriel’s character emphasizes the challenges faced by disabled African Americans who are often forgotten or marginalized by society due to both their race and disability.

Furthermore Fences examines the lingering effects of racial discrimination on the characters’ sense of identity and self-worth. Troy’s inability to achieve his dream of becoming a professional baseball player haunts him leading him to feel like a failure and to constantly remind others of the injustice he faced. The play also explores the impact of systemic racism on the characters’ relationships particularly in Troy’s marriage and his strained interactions with his sons.

Overall the theme of racial discrimination in Fences is an important commentary on the experiences of African Americans during the 1950s. August Wilson reveals the damaging effects of discrimination on individuals and their relationships while shedding light on the systemic racism that permeated all aspects of society.

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(6)
Troy Maxson the protagonist of August Wilson’s play Fences plays a crucial role in the thematic development of the play. As an African-American man living in the 1950s Troy represents the struggles and aspirations of black individuals during that period.

One of the central themes of Fences is the tension between dreams and realities. Troy a former baseball player who was denied the opportunity to play in the Major Leagues due to racial barriers carries a deep resentment towards a system that denied him the chance to achieve his dream. This bitterness combined with his own failures and disappointments in life leads Troy to constantly clash with his son Cory who dreams of playing football and pursuing a sports career.

Through the character of Troy Wilson explores the impact of racism on the dreams and aspirations of black individuals. Troy’s experiences with discrimination shape his outlook on life leading him to be skeptical about the possibility of achieving success and happiness. His experiences have made him cynical and skeptical towards the idea of pursuing dreams which is evident in his dialogue and interactions with other characters.

Additionally Troy’s relationship with his wife Rose also sheds light on the themes of dreams and realities. While Rose is a supportive and loving partner Troy’s actions betray her trust ultimately shattering the dream of a stable and content family life. This betrayal represents the harsh realities of broken dreams and the consequences of one’s actions.

Troy’s character also symbolizes the generational divide within the African-American community. His struggles are representative of the challenges faced by older black individuals who have experienced discrimination firsthand while his son Cory represents the younger generation that seeks to challenge and overcome those barriers. Troy’s conflicted relationship with Cory is emblematic of the tension between generations and differing perspectives on dreams and aspirations.

Overall the character of Troy Maxson is significant to the thematic development of Fences as he embodies the struggles aspirations and bitter realities experienced by African-Americans during the 1950.

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(7)
In Osborne’s Look Back in Anger the theme of anger is central and pervasive throughout the play. The protagonist Jimmy Porter is characterized by his intense and relentless anger which serves as a driving force for his actions and relationships.

Jimmy’s anger is rooted in his frustration with the social and political climate of post-war Britain. He is disillusioned with the class system that he believes has limited his opportunities and stifled his ambition. This anger fuels his relentless critique of society and his constant railing against the establishment.

Furthermore Jimmy’s anger is directed at his wife Alison and his best friend Cliff. He often takes out his frustrations on them using sarcasm insults and emotional manipulation. This anger is indicative of his deep-seated dissatisfaction with his own life and his inability to achieve the success and happiness he desires.

The theme of anger is also reflected in the conflicts between the characters. The play explores the breakdown of communication and the breakdown of relationships due to unexpressed anger and resentment. The characters struggle to effectively communicate their emotions leading to misunderstandings tension and ultimately the collapse of their relationships.

Moreover the theme of anger is also tied to the larger political and social context of the play. Osborne uses Jimmy’s anger to critique the post-war society and its failure to address the needs and aspirations of the working class. Jimmy’s anger serves as a reflection of the broader social tensions and discontents of the time.

Overall the theme of anger in Look Back in Anger is multi-dimensional and serves as a critique of society a reflection of personal frustrations and a driving force for the characters’ actions. Through Jimmy’s anger Osborne explores the complexities of human emotions and the impact of social and political contexts on individuals.

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(8)
Jimmy and Cliff are two central characters in John Osborne’s play Look Back in Anger. While they exist in the same social and domestic sphere their personalities differ greatly.

Jimmy Porter is the main protagonist of the play and embodies the angry young man archetype. He is an intelligent and articulate individual but deeply dissatisfied with his life and the state of society. Jimmy is filled with bitterness and resentment towards the post-war British society he feels trapped in. He constantly expresses his frustration through aggressive outbursts verbal attacks and at times physical violence. He possesses a sharp wit and often uses sarcasm as a defense mechanism. Jimmy is deeply disillusioned and rejects the societal norms and expectations placed upon him. He is a complex and multi-dimensional character capable of displaying tenderness and vulnerability beneath his anger.

On the other hand Cliff Lewis is Jimmy’s long-time friend and roommate. Unlike Jimmy Cliff is more level-headed and emotionally stable. He is described as an easy-going and amiable character. Cliff works as a navigator on a ship and is depicted as a working-class man content with his job and lifestyle. He is fiercely loyal to Jimmy and serves as a mediator between Jimmy and others often attempting to diffuse tense situations with humor or reason. Cliff represents a more pragmatic approach to life accepting the circumstances and finding contentment within them.

While both characters share a living space and a close bond they represent opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of temperament and outlook on life. Jimmy is consumed by anger and resentment constantly challenging and rebelling against society while Cliff in contrast represents a more grounded and accepting perspective. Their contrasting personalities and dynamics serve to highlight the themes of frustration disillusionment and social unrest that permeate the play.
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SECTION C: ANSWER ONE QUESTION FROM THIS SECTION
(9)
In “Black Woman Senghor utilizes rich imagery to evoke a powerful and evocative visual experience for the reader. The poem is infused with vivid descriptions and comparisons that paint a vibrant picture of the black woman’s beauty and strength.

One example of Senghor’s use of imagery can be seen in the lines: “Your lips are moist / and your feet / in the streets / are more triumphant / than flamboyant fans.” Here the poet employs sensory imagery to depict the lushness and vitality of the black woman’s lips as well as the resilience and magnetic energy of her footsteps. By comparing her footsteps to flamboyant fans Senghor creates a striking visual image that captures both her grace and prowess.

Another instance of powerful imagery can be found in the lines: “Black Woman / I sing your beauty / that is combative / and hard / and eternal.” Here the poet compares her beauty to something that is combative and hard emphasizing her resilience and fortitude. This imagery not only highlights the strength of the black woman but also celebrates her lasting presence and timeless beauty.

Moreover Senghor uses nature imagery to amplify the beauty and allure of the black woman. For instance he writes “Your hair runs proudly / like a waterfall / of snakes / cascading / wild wisdom.” This description of her hair as a waterfall of snakes not only conjures up an intriguing visual image but also suggests a sense of untamed power and wisdom. By comparing her hair to a waterfall Senghor invokes the energy movement and mesmerizing beauty of nature.

Overall Senghor’s use of imagery in “Black Woman” is effective in conveying the strength beauty and enduring nature of the black woman. Through vivid descriptions and comparisons he creates a visual experience that enhances the reader’s understanding of her power and allure.

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(10)
In Neto’s “The Grieved Land the theme of racial injustice is prominent throughout the narrative. The story takes place in Angola a country plagued by colonialism and racial discrimination and it provides a powerful critique of the oppressive system that perpetuates racial injustice.

One of the ways Neto highlights racial injustice is through the characterization of the main protagonist Paulo. Paulo is a black Angolan who is educated and enlightened allowing him to recognize the unfair treatment and exploitation of his people by the Portuguese colonial masters. He witnesses firsthand the brutalities committed by the white settlers against the black population including forced labor land confiscation and racial discrimination. Through Paulo’s experiences Neto sheds light on the inequality and injustice endured by the African people under colonial rule.

Additionally Neto explores the theme of racial injustice by examining the unequal distribution of power and resources between the colonizers and the colonized. The Portuguese settlers who are predominantly white are shown to hold all the positions of authority and enjoy the privileges that come with it. They use their power to exploit the land and its resources leaving the African people impoverished and marginalized. Neto depicts the stark contrast between the luxurious lifestyles of the colonizers and the poverty and suffering of the native population illustrating the inherent racial injustice embedded within the colonial system.

Furthermore the theme of racial injustice is conveyed through Neto’s depiction of the resistance movement led by Paulo. The African people fed up with the racial oppression begin to mobilize and fight back against their oppressors. However their resistance is met with violence and repression from the Portuguese authorities who view any form of dissent as a threat to their control. Neto shows how the struggle for justice and equality is met with brutality reflecting the entrenched racial injustice that permeates society.

Ultimately Neto’s “The Grieved Land” serves as a powerful portrayal of racial injustice in Angola under colonial rule. Through vivid storytelling and compelling characters he exposes the systemic racism and oppression faced by the African people and calls for an end to racial injustice. The novel serves as a critique of the colonial system and a rallying cry for freedom and equality.

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“`SECTION D: ANSWER ONE QUESTION FROM THIS SECTION“`

(11)
In “Good – morrow John Donne utilizes rich and intricate imagery to convey the depth of love and the transformative power of a true connection between two souls. Through his masterful use of metaphors and symbolism Donne explores the idea that love is a force that transcends physical boundaries and connects individuals on a spiritual level.

One of the most striking examples of imagery in the poem is Donne’s comparison of two lovers to the four elements – earth water air and fire. He writes “If ever any beauty I did see Which I desir’d and got ’twas but a dream of thee.” This metaphor suggests that the love between the speaker and his beloved is all-encompassing and elemental implying that their connection is as essential to his existence as the very elements of the natural world.

Furthermore Donne employs vivid imagery to depict the sunrise and the renewal of the world in order to symbolize the awakening of love. He writes “Good morrow to our waking souls / Which watch not one another out of fear; / For love all love of other sights controls / And makes one little room an everywhere.” Here Donne suggests that love erases all other concerns and brings about a sense of unity and interconnectedness. He creates a vivid image of the lovers’ souls awakening to a new day filled with love and passion transcending the boundaries of time and space.

Moreover Donne’s use of religious imagery in the poem adds another layer of depth and meaning. He refers to the lovers’ souls as “twin compasses” that are linked together suggesting a sense of divine connection. He also describes their love as a “marriage-bed” and their souls as “angels” – both symbols of purity and spiritual union. This religious imagery highlights the sanctity and transcendental nature of their love elevating it to a higher plane.

Overall Donne’s use of imagery in “Good – morrow” is masterful and intricate serving to evoke powerful emotions and convey complex ideas. His metaphors symbols and vivid descriptions paint a picture of love as a transformative and cosmic force that brings about a sense of unity and profound connection. Through his use of imagery Donne effectively captures the essence of true love and its ability to transcend physical boundaries and connect souls on a deeper spiritual level.

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(12)
In Maya Angelou’s poem “Caged Bird the themes of freedom and captivity are explored through the metaphorical representation of birds. The caged bird represents those who are oppressed and limited in their ability to express themselves fully whereas the free bird symbolizes the individuals who have the liberty to live their lives without any restrictions.

The caged bird with its clipped wings and confined space serves as a powerful symbol of the captivity experienced by marginalized and oppressed individuals. It represents those who are unable to exercise their freedom due to societal political or personal circumstances. The image of the caged bird “sings with a fearful trill of things unknown but longed for still” exemplifies the yearning for freedom and the deep longing to break free from the constraints that bind it.

Conversely the free bird symbolizes individuals who have the power to live their lives with autonomy and without limitations. The free bird “leaps on the back of the wind” and “dips his wings in the orange sun rays illustrating its unrestrained ability to explore and enjoy the world around it. The freedom of the bird contrasts starkly with the confined life of the caged bird.

Through the exploration of these contrasting images Angelou effectively conveys the stark contrast between freedom and captivity. The poem serves as a metaphor for the human experience highlighting the profound impact that societal and personal oppression can have on an individual’s ability to express themselves and live a full life.

Overall the theme of freedom and captivity in Angelou’s “Caged Bird” provides a thought-provoking exploration of the limitations faced by oppressed individuals and the powerful desire for liberty and self-expression. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality so that all individuals can experience the freedom and autonomy they deserve.