JAMB UTME - Literature In English - 2023

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A Government Driver on His Retirement is a poem of thirty-three lines divided into six stanzas. Stanzas 1, 2, 4 and 5 have four lines each while Stanzas 3 and 6 have eight and nine lines respectively.

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Rhyme scheme is the best answer. The semblance of sound and patternised movement or flow of the words in the excerpt above makes rhyme scheme the predominant literary figure there.

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The term "dramatis personae" in a play refers to the **list of characters** or the **cast list**. It provides a comprehensive list of all the characters that appear in the play. This list includes the main characters, supporting characters, and sometimes even minor characters. The purpose of including a dramatis personae is to help the audience or readers understand who the characters are and their roles in the story. It ensures that everyone involved in the production, such as actors, directors, and stage crew, is aware of the characters and their importance. In a nutshell, the dramatis personae is like a character reference guide, giving an overview of who is who in the play.

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When an object is invested with a meaning beyond its immediate reference, it becomes a symbol. A symbol is a representation of something else, often an abstract concept or idea. It goes beyond its literal meaning and carries a deeper significance. Symbols can be objects, actions, or even words that evoke a particular meaning or feeling. They are powerful tools used in literature, art, and communication to convey complex ideas in a more accessible and impactful way. Symbols allow us to communicate and understand concepts that may be difficult to express directly. They add depth and richness to our understanding of the world and can evoke strong emotions and associations.

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The device used in the phrase "I shall booze and zoom" is **hyperbole**.
Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggerated statements or claims that are not meant to be taken literally. In this case, the phrase implies that the retired government driver will engage in excessive drinking and high-speed driving. The use of the words "booze" and "zoom" exaggerates the driver's intended behavior after retirement.
It is important to note that hyperbole is often used to make a point or create an impact in writing or speech, and should not be interpreted literally.

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The theme of this excerpt is **the poet's appalling remarks about the bird**. In this excerpt, the poet describes bats as creatures that "hang themselves up like an old rag" and sleep "disgustingly upside down." This implies that the poet views bats in a negative light and finds their behavior revolting. Therefore, the theme of the excerpt is the poet's appalling remarks about the bird. The other options do not accurately reflect the overall tone and message conveyed by the poet's words in this particular excerpt.

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This is a climax literary point in which the audience reacts to what the character (protagonist) experiences. It is known as (release of purgation).

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Writers use personification to give human characteristics, such as emotions and behaviors, to non-human things, animals, and ideas.

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The given lines, "I had not taken the first step in knowledge, I had not learnt to let go with the hands" is an example of Repetition. Repetition refers to the act of repeating certain words or phrases within a sentence or paragraph for emphasis or to create a specific effect. In this case, the repetition of the phrase "I had not" emphasizes the speaker's lack of progress or action in acquiring knowledge and learning. This repetition helps to convey the speaker's frustration or regret over their inaction.

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The use of the word 'crown' in this context is a good example of synecdoche, a figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa. Here, 'crown' is used to represent power or leadership, which is a part of the whole concept of being a king or ruler.

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A limerick is a type of poem that is known for its humorous and playful nature. It consists of five lines and follows a specific rhyme scheme, which is AABBA. This means that the first, second, and fifth lines rhyme with each other, while the third and fourth lines have a different rhyme. In addition to its rhyme scheme, a limerick also typically includes a stinging or surprising climax at the end of the poem. This can be a punchline or a clever twist that adds to the humor of the poem. Unlike other forms of poetry that may be more formal and elaborate, limericks are known for their simplicity and straightforward style. They often use straightforward language, making them easy to understand and enjoy. So, to summarize, a limerick is a short, humorous poem that consists of five lines with a specific rhyme scheme and a clever, funny twist at the end.

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The term given to a type of incident or device which recurs frequently in literature is **motif**. A motif is a recurring element or idea that appears throughout a piece of literature, such as a symbol, theme, or character trait. It can be a symbol that represents a particular concept or theme, a recurring theme that is explored in different ways, or a recurring character trait that appears in multiple characters. Motifs can serve various purposes in literature. They can enhance the overall meaning and depth of a story by adding depth and complexity. They can also help to create unity and coherence in a work, connecting different parts of the story together. Additionally, motifs can provide insights into the author's intentions, beliefs, or themes. For example, in William Shakespeare's play Macbeth, the motif of blood appears throughout the story. Blood represents guilt, violence, and the consequences of immoral actions. This motif is used to convey the ongoing guilt and psychological impact that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth experience after they commit the murder of King Duncan. In conclusion, a motif is a recurring incident or device that adds meaning, coherence, and depth to a piece of literature.

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Parallelism is a literary device that uses the same grammatical structure in all parts of a sentence. In the passage, the speaker asks a series of questions that follow the same structure, which is a clear example of parallelism. Onomatopoeia refers to words that imitate the natural sounds of a thing. Metaphor is a figure of speech that makes an implicit, implied, or hidden comparison between two things that are unrelated, but share some common characteristics. Simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison, showing similarities between two different things.

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The oldest genre of literature is poetry.

Poetry can be traced back thousands of years to ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Greeks. It predates other forms of literature like drama and prose.

What makes poetry unique is its use of rhythm, meter, and language that is often more expressive and condensed than other forms of writing. It is a form of artistic expression that evokes emotions and creates vivid imagery through the use of carefully chosen words and structures.

Throughout history, poetry has been used to communicate stories, share cultural traditions, express love, and even convey political or social messages.

In summary, poetry is the oldest genre of literature, dating back to ancient civilizations, and it continues to be appreciated and enjoyed by people around the world today.

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The phrase 'To fly flags of joy' contains two figures of speech: metaphor and alliteration. 'To fly flags' is a metaphor for expressing joy, while 'flags of joy' is an example of alliteration due to the repetition of the 'f' sound.

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The passage reveals that Jibunoh symbolizes **lawlessness**. This is evident from the various actions and behavior mentioned about Jibunoh. He was hated by all his neighbors and deserted by his relations, indicating that he did not follow societal norms or adhere to proper conduct. He was the first and only person to beat a policeman, showing a lack of respect for authority and breaking the law. Additionally, he had ten cases instituted against him for stealing or violating the rights of others, further highlighting his disregard for the law and the rights of others. The passage also mentions that Jibunoh had no regard for decency or normal conduct, and that no lover of peace or order could be his friend. Finally, his death elicited jubilation instead of mourning, indicating that his presence and actions were not seen as positive or beneficial by those around him. Overall, Jibunoh's character represents lawlessness in the passage.

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The master in the passage above is in a state of *trance*.

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The pause-pattern achieved through the sonority and rhythmical structure of the lines in the given text is called caesura. A caesura is a pause or break in a line of poetry, usually marked by punctuation or by a natural pause in speaking. It helps to create a sense of rhythm and musicality in the poem. In this case, the caesura is used to separate and emphasize different aspects of the lines, creating a pause after each phrase. This pause pattern helps to create a rhythmic flow and adds a certain musical quality to the lines.

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Metonymy is the correct answer. Metonymy is a figure of speech where the name of one thing is used to refer to something else that is closely associated with it. It is a way of expressing an idea or concept indirectly by substituting a related word or phrase. For example, when we say "The pen is mightier than the sword," we are using the word "pen" to represent the act of writing, which is closely associated with it. Similarly, when we say "The crown declared war," we are using the word "crown" to represent the monarchy or the person in power who wears the crown. In metonymy, the substituted word or phrase is chosen based on its connection or association to the intended meaning, making the language more vivid and expressive. It helps to add depth and layers of meaning to our communication by using familiar words or phrases that evoke certain ideas or images. In summary, metonymy is the use of a word or phrase to represent something closely related to it. It allows us to convey meaning indirectly, adding richness and nuance to our language.

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The value of the comparison is always achieved in the end e.g My mum is a sister, my sister is a mum.

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The plot of the novel is linear; Events in the novel succeed into one another in one to one correspondence right from the point to exposition to climax to anti-climax to denouement.

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The dominant poetic device in the excerpt is imagery. Imagery is when language is used to create vivid mental images or sensory experiences in the reader's mind. In this excerpt, the use of descriptive language like "Where light pushes through", "A sudden turning upon itself of a thing in the air", and "A dip to the water" appeals to the reader's senses and helps them visualize and experience the scene being described. The line "And you think: 'The swallows are flying so late!'" also contributes to the imagery as it evokes the image of swallows flying and creates a sense of surprise or wonder in the reader's mind. Therefore, the dominant poetic device in this excerpt is imagery as it uses descriptive language to create vivid images and sensory experiences.

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The phrase 'She swallowed it all, just like a nasty pill' employs the literary device of simile. A simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. In this case, the author compares the act of swallowing a nasty pill to accepting a difficult situation.

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Oxymoron is a rhetorical term that describes words or phrases that, when placed together, create paradoxes or contradictions. These contradictions seem foolish but, when we think about them a bit, often turn out to be sharp observations about our world.

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The excerpt smacks of plenteous exaggerations(hyperbole), and a once-upon-a time reference (allusions).

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A character that is always against the interest of the protagonist is known as the "villain". The villain is a character in a story who acts as the main source of conflict and obstacle for the protagonist. Their primary purpose is to create tension and challenge the hero, often by causing harm, creating obstacles, or opposing the protagonist's goals. The villain is usually portrayed as malicious, cruel, or immoral, and they are a constant threat to the hero's well-being and success. In many stories, the hero and the villain engage in a battle of wills, where the hero must use their skills, intelligence, and determination to overcome the villain's actions and ultimately achieve a favorable outcome. The villain is an essential element in storytelling, as they provide a contrast to the hero and offer opportunities for growth, redemption, and triumph.

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Lineation refers to the arrangement of lines in verse form. In poetry, lines are grouped together to form stanzas and each line plays a crucial role in the overall structure and flow of the poem. Each line serves as a unit of rhythm and contributes to the overall meaning and aesthetic of the poem. Lineation helps to create a visual and rhythmic pattern, guiding the reader's interpretation and understanding of the poem. It is important to note that lineation is not related to tracing family descent of people in verse.

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The tone of the passage above is **derisive**. In the passage, the writer is making fun of the way some people write their application letters. They mention the flowery language and excessive formality used in the closing of the letter. The use of phrases like "if you are kind enough to accommodate this humble application" and "I shall do my utmost best to render you the greatest services" is being mocked. This suggests that the writer is mocking or ridiculing the practice of using grand, exaggerated language in an application letter. Therefore, the tone of the passage is derisive.

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The process of creating a character and giving them specific personality traits is called characterization. Characterization is a crucial aspect of storytelling, whether it be in books, movies, or plays. It involves the development and portrayal of a character's traits, beliefs, emotions, and actions.
To create a character, an author or creator has to make deliberate choices about the character's physical appearance, background, and personality. These choices help to shape the character's identity and make them more relatable and engaging to the audience.
Once the character is established, the process of characterization continues through the character's actions, dialogue, thoughts, and interactions with other characters. These elements reveal more about the character's motivations, values, and attitudes.
Characterization can be achieved in several ways. These include:
- Direct characterization: This is when the author or creator explicitly states or describes the character's traits, motivations, or background. For example, they may say, "She was a kind-hearted person who always put others before herself."
- Indirect characterization: This is when the character's traits are revealed through their actions, speech, or thoughts. The audience has to infer the character's personality based on their behavior. For example, if a character frequently acts selfishly and only cares about their own needs, it implies that they have a self-centered personality.
- Character's relationships: The way a character interacts and forms relationships with other characters in the story can also provide insight into their personality. For example, if a character is constantly kind and supportive to others, it shows that they have a compassionate nature.
Through characterization, the audience can develop a deeper understanding of the character's motivations, beliefs, and attitudes. This helps to create a well-rounded and engaging story as the audience becomes invested in the characters and their journey.

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Soyinka's "The Lion and the Jewel" is culturally set primarily through its use of dance and songs.

In the play, dance and songs are integral parts of the Yoruba culture and are frequently employed by the characters to express their emotions, convey messages, and celebrate significant events. These cultural elements provide a vivid depiction of the rich traditions and customs of the Yoruba people.

The characters in the play often engage in traditional dance performances, such as the "ewu" dance. These dances are not only entertaining but also serve as a way to showcase the cultural heritage and values of the Yoruba people. The rhythmic movements and musical accompaniment create a vibrant atmosphere that immerses the audience in the cultural setting.

Additionally, songs are used extensively throughout the play to express various emotions, tell stories, and convey moral lessons. The characters sing traditional folk songs, chants, and war cries, which contribute to the cultural authenticity of the setting.

By incorporating dance and songs into the narrative, Soyinka effectively captures the essence of Yoruba culture and helps the audience understand and appreciate the unique customs and traditions of the characters. The use of dance and songs enhances the cultural backdrop of the play and immerses the audience in the vibrant world of the Yoruba people.

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The dominant device in the excerpt from 'The Journey of the Magi' is synecdoche. Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa. In this case, 'night-fires going out' and 'lack of shelters' are used to represent the overall hardships and difficulties of the journey. The device is not paradox, metaphor, or simile, as there is no contradiction, comparison, or likeness being expressed.

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A metrical pause occurring in the middle of a line in a poem is called a caesura. - **Caesura** is a punctuation-like break in the rhythm of a poem that creates a pause, typically in the middle of a line. - It is used to add emphasis, create a rhythmic pattern, or give the reader a moment to reflect. - Unlike punctuation marks, which break the flow of words, a caesura is a more subtle pause that is created through the use of meter and rhythm. - **Tetrametre** refers to a line of poetry containing four metrical feet, while **rhythm** refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a poem. - **Assonance** refers to the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words or lines of poetry.

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The sides of a stage are called **the wings**. This is because they are typically located on either side of the main performance area, just like the wings of a bird extend from its body. The wings provide space for performers, props, and equipment to be concealed and stored until they are needed on stage. They also serve as entrances and exits for actors during a performance, allowing them to make their entrances and exits discreetly. In summary, the wings of a stage are the areas on either side of the main stage where performers and equipment are organized and concealed before and during a performance.

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The writing convention in which the events in a narrative are scrambled as they come to the writer's mind without any attempt to arrange them in an orderly sequence is called "stream of consciousness".
Stream of consciousness is a literary technique that aims to depict the continuous flow of thoughts, feelings, memories, and associations that pass through a character's mind. It is like a window into the character's inner thoughts and perceptions.
In this style of writing, there is no chronological order or logical structure. Instead, the narrative jumps from one thought or impression to another, often without clear transitions. This technique attempts to mimic the unpredictable and often messy nature of human thought processes.
Stream of consciousness writing allows readers to experience a character's thoughts and emotions in a more direct and intimate way. It provides insight into their psychology, their internal conflicts, and their unique perception of the world.
So, in summary, stream of consciousness is a writing convention that presents a jumbled and unorganized depiction of a character's thoughts and experiences, capturing the chaotic and spontaneous nature of human consciousness.

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The moment of recognition of truth when ignorance gives way to knowledge is called **Anagnorisis**. Anagnorisis is a Greek word that can be translated as "recognition" or "discovery". In literature and drama, it refers to a significant moment in a character's story when they suddenly understand their true identity, the nature of their situation, or the consequences of their actions. This moment of realization often comes as a surprise to the character and can have a profound impact on the development of the plot. It allows the character to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, or the world around them. This recognition can be a turning point in the story, leading to important decisions or changes in the character's behavior. So, in summary, anagnorisis is the moment in which a character in a story or play realizes the truth and gains knowledge that was previously unknown to them.

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The theme of this excerpt is **the oppression of women**. In the excerpt, the women are described as singing in the forlorn fields about their lives. The songs they sing are about how they ploughed the terrain of their landscape for memories of lyrics lost in the vast void of time. This suggests that their lives have been filled with hardship and struggle. The lyrics lost in time symbolize the lost stories and experiences of these women due to their oppression. The mention of servitude cuffing the ankles of their soul and dereliction decapitating the epic of their lives further emphasize the theme of oppression. This language evokes a sense of bondage and powerlessness. The oppression is likely a result of societal structures and systems that have limited the freedom and agency of these women. Therefore, based on the description of the women's experiences and the imagery used, **the theme of this excerpt is the oppression of women**.

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The excerpt from "The Good Morrow" evokes the use of **visual imagery**. Visual imagery refers to the use of vivid and descriptive language that appeals to our sense of sight. In the excerpt, the speaker describes seeing a beauty that they desired and obtained, but it was only a dream of the person they are addressing. This creates a mental image in the reader's mind, allowing them to imagine the contrast between the reality and the dreamlike nature of the beauty. The use of visual imagery helps to engage the reader's imagination and enhance the emotional impact of the poem.

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In the passage above, the speaker can be described as **domineering**. The speaker's actions and words suggest that they have a strong and controlling personality. They want the other person to hurry up and get dressed, showing a sense of authority. The speaker also mentions having a lot of things to do, implying that their priorities are more important than the other person's. Additionally, the speaker slaps the bed in frustration, which further emphasizes their dominant and forceful nature.

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The tragic character is the person whose experiences arouse pity and **sympathy**. When we say that a character is tragic, it means that they face great adversity or misfortune in their life. This could be due to their own actions or because of circumstances beyond their control. As we witness their struggles and challenges, we feel a deep sense of empathy and sorrow for them. We can relate to their pain and suffering, and we hope for a positive resolution to their situation. The tragic character's plight evokes strong emotions of sympathy and compassion in us as we watch their story unfold.

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The action in a play that stimulates the audience to pity a character is called pathos.
Pathos is a storytelling technique that aims to evoke strong emotions such as pity, sympathy, and compassion from the audience. It involves portraying the character's suffering, tragedy, or unfortunate circumstances in a way that creates an emotional connection between the audience and the character. This connection allows the audience to empathize with the character and feel a sense of pity for their situation.
In a play, pathos can be created through various means such as the character's dialogue, actions, or interactions with other characters. It can also be enhanced by the use of dramatic elements like music, lighting, and stage design.
By evoking a sense of pity in the audience, pathos helps to engage them emotionally and creates a deeper impact and connection with the story being told on stage. It can be a powerful tool for a playwright to convey their message and make the audience reflect on the human condition.