JAMB UTME - Literature In English - 2023

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

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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 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 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 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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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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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 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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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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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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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 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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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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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 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 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 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 phrase 'fruit with firm flesh' is an example of alliteration. Alliteration is a literary device where the first consonant sounds in several closely connected words are the same.

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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 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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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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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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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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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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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 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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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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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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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 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 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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The subject matter of a literary work refers to the main topic or idea that the work explores. It is the overarching theme or concept that the author wants to convey through their writing. While all the options mentioned (theme, plot, structure, and setting) are important elements in a literary work, the subject matter specifically refers to the deeper meaning or message that the author wants to communicate to the reader.
Theme: The theme of a literary work is the central idea or message that the author is trying to convey. It is the underlying meaning or moral of the story. For example, the theme of a novel could be love, friendship, or the struggle between good and evil.
Plot: The plot of a literary work refers to the sequence of events and actions that occur in the story. It includes the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. While the plot helps to develop the subject matter, it is not the actual subject matter itself.
Structure: The structure of a literary work refers to how the story is organized and presented. It includes elements such as the narrative style, point of view, and use of flashbacks or foreshadowing. The structure can enhance the delivery of the subject matter, but it is not the subject matter in itself.
Setting: The setting of a literary work refers to the time, place, and environment in which the story takes place. While the setting can contribute to the overall mood and tone of the work, it is not the subject matter. The subject matter may be explored within a specific setting, but it goes beyond just the physical or temporal backdrop of the story.
In summary, while all the options mentioned play a role in a literary work, the subject matter is the central topic or idea that the author intends to convey to the reader. It is the deeper meaning or message that the work explores.

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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.