JAMB UTME - Literature In English - 2023

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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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Anaphora refers to the repetition of certain words or phrase at the begining of each sentence or line in a poem

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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.

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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 line "The sun used to smile in my hut" is an example of personification.
Personification is a figure of speech where human qualities or characteristics are given to non-human objects or ideas. In this line, the sun is being described as smiling, which is a human quality.
The other options - - Apostrophe: Apostrophe is a figure of speech in which someone absent, dead, or non-human is addressed as if they were present and able to reply. This is not the case in the given line, as the sun is not being directly addressed. - Rhetorical Question: A rhetorical question is a question asked for effect or to make a point, rather than to get an answer. The given line is not a question, so it does not fit this category. - Zeugma: Zeugma is a figure of speech in which a word is used in two different ways in the same sentence. The given line does not have such usage.
Therefore, the correct answer is personification.

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In the given lines, Tom is described as being warm. The reason for this is that he is doing his duty. The phrase "So if all do their duty they need not fear harm" suggests that as long as Tom and others are fulfilling their responsibilities, they will be safe and secure. Therefore, Tom's warmth is a result of his dedication and commitment to his work rather than any external factors such as working indoors, wearing warm clothes, or just waking up from sleep.

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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 tone of the poet in the poem "Oily Tears" can be described as **optimistic**. The poet expresses a sense of hope and assurance that the tears and sorrow that someone is experiencing will eventually be stopped. The use of the word "swear" implies a strong commitment to this belief. Despite the initial description of "depressed face" and "tears", the poet aims to convey a sense of positivity and optimism for the future.

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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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An **allegory** is a story that uses symbolic characters or events to convey a deeper, hidden meaning. It typically has both literal and figurative interpretations. The literal meaning is the surface-level plot or events that happen in the story, while the figurative meaning represents a deeper message, moral, or theme. For example, imagine a story about talking animals who live in a forest and face various challenges. On the surface, it may seem like a simple tale about animal adventures. However, when we analyze the story more closely, we discover that the animals symbolize different human characteristics or represent political or social ideas. The story then becomes a figurative representation, using the animal characters and events as a metaphor for something else. In contrast, a **novella** is a shorter fictional narrative that has a fully developed plot, characters, and theme, but does not have the extensive length of a novel. Novellas usually focus on a particular event or period in a character's life and offer a compact and focused story. A **fable** is a short tale, often involving animals, that conveys a moral lesson or truth. Fables are usually written in a straightforward manner, with animals acting as characters who represent specific qualities or virtues. The story aims to teach a lesson or provide guidance through its moral. An **epistle** is a type of letter or written message that usually contains personal thoughts, reflections, or advice. It is typically addressed to a specific person or group of people and can cover a wide range of topics. Epistles are commonly found in religious texts or historical literature. They may contain moral teachings or serve as a means of communication between individuals or communities. In summary, an **allegory** is a story with both literal and figurative meanings, while a **novella** is a shorter fictional narrative with a fully developed plot. A **fable** is a short tale that teaches a moral lesson, and an **epistle** is a type of letter or written message usually containing personal thoughts or advice.

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In a play, the term "cast" refers to all the actors who have been selected to perform in the production. It includes **all the actors** who will be portraying the different characters and bringing the story to life on stage. The cast may consist of **three actors**, **a few actors**, or even more, depending on the requirements of the play. So, the correct answer is **d) all the actors**.

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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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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.

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An extended fictional narrative which is realistic is known as a novel.
A novel is a long work of fiction that tells a story in great detail and depth. It typically has a complex plot, well-developed characters, and explores various themes and ideas. Unlike a short story, which is shorter and focuses on a single event or theme, a novel provides a more extensive exploration of its subject matter.
While diaries can also convey narratives, they are typically personal accounts of a person's experiences and do not follow a traditional story structure. On the other hand, a novella is a shorter work of fiction that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. Novellas often explore a single theme or idea in depth. However, for an extended fictional narrative with a realistic setting and a detailed exploration of characters and themes, a novel is the most suitable option.

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A tragic hero, according to the Aristotelian precept, must be a noble character with hubris. In simpler terms, a tragic hero is a high-ranking and respected person who possesses a fatal flaw or excessive pride. This flaw or hubris leads to their downfall or tragic ending in the story. It is important to note that a tragic hero does not necessarily have to be a king or a central character after whom the play is named. The key characteristic is their noble status and the presence of hubris. Their downfall is often a result of their own actions or decisions, making their story both tragic and relatable. Through their downfall, the audience learns profound life lessons and experiences catharsis, a release of emotions.

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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 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 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 effect of the trees sighing in this verse is to indicate that the bird is carefree. The phrase "the trade winds soft through the sighing trees" suggests that the bird is in a peaceful and serene environment where the trees are gently rustling and making soft sounds. This creates an atmosphere of tranquility and freedom for the bird. The sighing of the trees also symbolizes a sense of contentment and harmony in nature. Overall, this imagery portrays the bird as being unconstrained and able to fully enjoy its freedom.

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

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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 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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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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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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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 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 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 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 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.