JAMB UTME - Literature In English - 2023

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

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The overwhelming pride that destroys the tragic hero is called hubris.
Hubris refers to excessive pride or arrogance displayed by a character, often leading to their downfall. Tragic heroes are typically individuals who possess remarkable qualities or achievements but are also flawed in some way. Their hubris causes them to overestimate their abilities or believe they are invincible, leading them to challenge or defy the gods or fate.
In Greek tragedies, the fatal flaw of hubris is a common theme. The tragic hero's excessive pride blinds them to their faults and the consequences of their actions. This ultimately brings about their downfall and a sense of catharsis for the audience.
To summarize, hubris is the overwhelming pride that destroys the tragic hero by causing them to act out of arrogance and disregard the potential consequences of their actions.

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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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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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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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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 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.

Which of these is the oldest genre of literature?

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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 answer to this question is **metonymy**. Metonymy is a figure of speech where a word or phrase is used to represent something else that it is closely associated with. In the poem "Many years on wheels," the phrase "wheels" is used to represent the occupation or job of the government driver. "Wheels" is closely associated with the driver because it is an essential tool and symbol of their profession. The reference to "wheels" as a metonymy helps to emphasize and encapsulate the driver's identity and experience. It communicates the idea that the driver has spent many years working in their profession, using their vehicle as a means of livelihood and service to the government. It is important to note that metonymy differs from personification, climax, and synecdoche. - Personification is the attribution of human characteristics to non-human objects, so it does not accurately fit the context of the poem. - Climax refers to the highest or most intense point of a story or event, which is not applicable to the given line. - Synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part is used to represent a whole or vice versa. While "wheels" can be seen as a synecdoche in a broader context, in this specific line it is being used metonymically. Therefore, the correct answer is metonymy.

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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.

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A trilogy is a sequence of three plays, stories, or books that are usually connected and tell a larger, overall story. It can be written by the same author or have related authors. The important point about a trilogy is that it consists of three parts or pieces that are meant to be read or seen together as a whole. So, in summary, a trilogy is a set of three interconnected plays, stories, or books.

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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 imagery in the excerpt above is mainly auditory and visual. The line "my heart is a quiet drum" creates an auditory image as it compares the sound of a drum to the beating of the heart. It suggests that the heart is making a gentle rhythmic sound, similar to a drum. The line "something it flares like a parched thunder cracking through a damask sky" creates a visual image. It compares the heart's flaring to thunder cracking through a damask (patterned) sky. This imagery conjures up the image of a powerful and intense display of energy, like lightning cutting through the sky. Overall, the excerpt combines auditory imagery with visual imagery to evoke a sense of sound and sight in the reader's mind.

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The combination of two or more metaphors is called mixed metaphor.
Metaphors are figures of speech that use language to compare two unrelated things, usually for the purpose of creating vivid descriptions or conveying a particular meaning. When multiple metaphors are brought together in a single sentence or phrase, it creates a mixed metaphor.
Imagine if someone said, "He's as sharp as a knife, but also a shining star." In this example, the person is using two different metaphors: one comparing someone to a sharp knife and another comparing them to a shining star. However, when these two metaphors are combined, it creates a mixed metaphor.
Mixed metaphors can sometimes create confusion or make the intended meaning unclear. It is generally more effective to stick to one metaphor at a time to ensure clarity and coherence in communication.

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The poetic device used in the expression 'for the caged bird sings of freedom' is irony. Irony is a figure of speech in which the intended meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning. In this case, the irony lies in the fact that the caged bird, despite being confined, sings of freedom.

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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.

'As virtuous men pass mildly away,
And whisper to their souls, to go
Whilst some of their sad friends do say,
The breadth goes now, and some say, "No".'
John Donne: A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning

The tone of this poem is generally

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The tone of this poem is serious. The poem discusses the departure of virtuous individuals and how their friends react to their passing. The language used, such as "whisper to their souls" and "sad friends," conveys a sense of solemnity and seriousness. The poem also explores the idea of forbidding mourning, suggesting that there is a deeper understanding and appreciation for the departure of virtuous individuals. Overall, the tone of the poem is focused and reflective, which contributes to its serious tone.

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Allusions are generally regarded as brief but purposeful references, within a literary text, to a person, place, event, or to another work of literature. An allusion is like a little nod or reference to something or someone else. It's kind of like when you're talking to a friend and you mention a quote from a movie, or you make a reference to a famous event or person. In literature, an allusion is when the author makes a reference to something outside of the text, like another book, a historical event, or a famous person. For example, if a character in a book is described as having the strength of Hercules, it's a reference to the mythological figure Hercules who was known for his incredible strength. This is an allusion to the Greek myth. Allusions can be used to add depth and meaning to a story. They can help the reader make connections, understand the author's intentions, or evoke certain emotions. Allusions can also be used to create a sense of familiarity or to give a story a cultural or historical context. So, in conclusion, allusions are brief references in literature that help convey a deeper meaning or connect the story to something outside of itself. They can be to a person, place, event, or another work of literature.

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The speaker in the excerpt above is confident. We can infer this because the speaker is advising someone to "be calm" and "regain their composure." These statements suggest that the speaker is composed and confident in their ability to handle the situation.

The tragic character is the person whose experiences arouse pity and

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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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In the passage above, it is implied that the unknown woman mentioned is **dead**. The passage states that she is "six feet beneath the earth," which indicates that she is buried in a grave or buried underground. The use of phrases such as "the place where she lay" and "a good six feet beneath an earth" suggest that she is not able to move or run away. The mention of Senhor Jose feeling unsure of what else he should do implies that the woman is no longer alive and there is nothing more that can be done for her. Therefore, the answer is that the unknown woman is dead.

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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 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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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 narrative style in which the hero tells his own story directly is called first-person. In first-person narrative, the protagonist or hero of the story is the one who is narrating the events, and they usually use pronouns like "I," "me," and "my" to refer to themselves. This perspective allows the reader to see the story through the eyes and experiences of the hero, providing a more intimate and personal connection with the protagonist. Thus, the hero's direct involvement in telling the story gives it a first-person narrative style.

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The poetic device in the expression "Rage is chief" is a metaphor. A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unrelated things by stating that one thing is the other thing. In this case, the expression is comparing "rage" to a "chief". It is not saying that rage is like a chief or similar to a chief, but rather, it is asserting that rage is the chief or leader of something. To further illustrate, let's look at the definition of the word "chief". A chief is the leader or the head of a group or organization. By using the metaphorical language of "rage is chief", the phrase emphasizes that rage is in control or has dominance over something. Therefore, the poetic device used in the expression "Rage is chief" is a metaphor, as it uses figurative language to convey the idea that rage is the leader or the most powerful force.

The writing convention in which the events in narrative are scrambled as they come to the writer's mind without any attempt to arrange them in orderly sequence is called

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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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A formal dignified speech or writing praising a person or thing for past or present deeds is called a eulogy. A eulogy is typically delivered at a funeral or memorial service to honor and remember the deceased. It is a way to acknowledge their life, achievements, and impact on others. Eulogies are meant to be respectful and heartfelt tributes, highlighting the positive aspects of the person's life and their accomplishments. It is a way for friends and family to offer their condolences and remember the person who has passed away.

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The image set in the lines above is of discomfort and likely destruction. The comparison of the storm turning around like a dog trying to settle itself on a rug and the people being like fleas complaining in his hair suggests that the rainstorm is causing inconvenience and disturbance. The mention of the storm being halfway out to sea and turning around implies that it is unpredictable and not easily settled, which further adds to the feeling of discomfort. The comparison to fleas also suggests that the people are small in comparison to the destructive power of the storm. Overall, the image portrays a sense of unease and the potential for harm or destruction.

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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 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.

A panegyric poem is composed to

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A panegyric poem is composed to praise someone or something. It is a form of literary work that specifically focuses on highlighting the positive qualities, achievements, or virtues of a particular individual, group, or object. The purpose of a panegyric poem is to express admiration, honor, and appreciation. It often uses powerful and persuasive language to extol the subject and convey a sense of reverence. In this type of poem, the writer aims to celebrate and glorify the qualities or accomplishments of the subject, presenting them in the best possible light. So, to summarize, a panegyric poem is created to praise and uplift its subject.

A limerick has

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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 reaction in the passage above is **nausea**. The passage describes the narrator's immediate physical response after opening the bottle. The strong odor coming from the bottle caused an unpleasant sensation in the narrator's nose, resulting in a feeling of discomfort or disgust. This natural bodily reaction is commonly known as nausea. Use of phrases like "I was shocked by the odor" and "I immediately corked it again, and spat on the floor" reinforces the sense of physical repulsion or discomfort caused by the smell. Hence, the answer is nausea.

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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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A novel that features spiritual apparitions as major characters is typically classified as a Gothic novel. Gothic literature is a genre that originated in the 18th century and often includes supernatural elements, such as ghosts, monsters, and other eerie occurrences. In Gothic novels, spiritual apparitions play significant roles in influencing the plot and creating a sense of mystery and suspense. These apparitions can be depicted as haunting or supernatural entities that interact with the human characters, usually with a lingering sense of terror or foreboding. They often symbolize unresolved conflicts, inner fears, or the consequences of past actions. Gothic novels aim to evoke strong emotions in readers, such as fear, horror, and fascination. By introducing spiritual apparitions as major characters, authors create an atmosphere of the supernatural and supernatural occurrences, heightening the tension and suspense in the narrative. These apparitions serve as catalysts for the central conflicts and themes of the story, enriching the overall reading experience. In summary, a novel that features spiritual apparitions as major characters is most likely classified as a Gothic novel, as this genre specifically incorporates supernatural elements and creates an atmosphere of mystery and suspense.

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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.