WAEC Literature-In-English 3 (Drama & Poetry) Questions and Answers 2025

WAEC Literature-In-English 3 (Drama & Poetry) 2025

Number 1

(1)
-In “Let Me Die Alone” by John Kargbo, Governor Samuel Rowe’s actions significantly contribute to the central theme of colonialism and its destructive impact on traditional societies. The novel explores the tensions between colonial powers and indigenous cultures, highlighting the devastating consequences of foreign rule.

-Governor Samuel Rowe is a British colonial administrator who embodies the oppressive and exploitative nature of colonialism. His actions are driven by British interests, undermining Yoko’s authority and influence. Rowe’s interference in local affairs and imposition of British laws and customs further exacerbate the conflict.

-The character of Governor Samuel Rowe serves as a catalyst for Yoko’s fall, illustrating the destructive nature of colonialism. Rowe’s manipulation and exploitation of local structures impose dominance over indigenous culture, highlighting cultural imperialism. This clash between colonial and indigenous worldviews leads to the erosion of traditional authority and cultural identity.

-The significance of Rowe’s contribution to Yoko’s fall lies in its representation of colonialism’s broader impact on local populations. Through Rowe’s character, the novel illustrates how colonial powers exploit and manipulate local structures, leading to loss of autonomy and cultural heritage. This serves as a commentary on the lasting effects of colonialism, highlighting the need for resistance and preservation of indigenous cultures.

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Number 2

(2)
-Lamboi’s ambition in “Let Me Die Alone” by John Kargbo relates to the central theme of power struggles and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The novel explores how personal aspirations can lead to conflict and undermine traditional authority.

-Lamboi’s desire for power and influence drives his actions, often putting him at odds with Yoko. His ambition serves as a catalyst for the challenges Yoko faces, undermining his authority and leading to internal conflict and instability.

-The novel highlights the destructive nature of unchecked ambition, showing how it can fracture alliances and erode trust within a community. Lamboi’s relentless pursuit of power ultimately contributes to Yoko’s downfall.

-The significance of Lamboi’s ambition lies in its representation of the destructive potential of personal ambition when prioritized over collective well-being. The novel critiques the pursuit of power at any cost, illustrating its impact on traditional leadership and social cohesion, and underscoring the importance of balancing personal ambition with the greater good.

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Number 3

(3)
-In Wole Soyinka’s play “The Lion and the Jewel,” music and dance serve as vital elements that enhance the storytelling and underscore the cultural themes within the narrative. Set in the Yoruba village of Ilujinle, the play uses these traditional artistic expressions to convey emotions, depict cultural rituals, and explore the tension between tradition and modernity.

-Music in the play often acts as a narrative device, providing insight into the characters’ inner worlds and the community’s collective identity. Traditional Yoruba music is used to celebrate and honor cultural heritage, creating a vibrant and immersive atmosphere that reflects the rhythms of village life. The music underscores key moments in the plot, such as celebrations and ceremonies, and helps to establish the tone and mood of various scenes.

-Dance, similarly, is an integral part of the play’s structure, serving both as a form of expression and as a storytelling tool. Through dance, characters communicate emotions and ideas that transcend words, allowing for a deeper connection with the audience. Dance sequences often depict significant events, such as the retelling of past stories or the portrayal of communal values and traditions. These moments of dance not only entertain but also convey cultural narratives, reinforcing the play’s themes of heritage and identity.

-Furthermore, the interplay of music and dance highlights the contrast between the traditional ways of life and the encroaching influence of Western modernity. Characters like Baroka, the Bale, embody the traditional customs, while others, such as Lakunle, represent the push towards modernization. The use of music and dance emphasizes the richness and resilience of Yoruba culture, even as it faces the challenges of change.

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Number 4

(4)
-In Wole Soyinka’s play “The Lion and the Jewel,” Sidi, the titular “jewel,” plays a crucial role in revealing the contrasting characteristics and motivations of the two main male characters: Baroka, the Bale, and Lakunle, the schoolteacher. Her interactions with both men highlight their differing perspectives on tradition, modernity, and gender roles.

-Sidi’s presence brings out Baroka’s cunning and traditionalism. As the Bale of Ilujinle, Baroka embodies the preservation of Yoruba customs and values. He is portrayed as wise, strategic, and somewhat manipulative, using his charm and intelligence to maintain his authority and influence. When Sidi becomes the object of his desire, Baroka’s resourcefulness is on full display. He devises a clever plan to win her over, showing his ability to adapt and outmaneuver those who underestimate him. Sidi’s allure challenges Baroka to prove his vitality and cunning, ultimately reinforcing his status as the “lion” of the village.

-In contrast, Sidi’s interactions with Lakunle reveal his idealism and naiveté. Lakunle, as a proponent of Western ideas and modernization, sees Sidi as a symbol of the traditional values he wishes to change. He is infatuated with her beauty and seeks to marry her without paying the bride price, a stance that reflects his rejection of cultural norms.

-However, Lakunle’s approach is often clumsy and condescending, highlighting his lack of understanding and respect for Sidi’s perspective. Through her, Lakunle’s idealistic ambitions are shown to be superficial and disconnected from the realities of the society he wishes to transform. Sidi’s interactions with both Baroka and Lakunle underscore the central themes of the play, such as the tension between tradition and modernity and the complexity of gender dynamics. Her character acts as a catalyst that exposes the true nature of the men around her, ultimately affirming the richness of her cultural identity and the nuanced power she holds within the village’s social structure.

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Number 5

(5)
In John Osborne’s play “Look Back in Anger,” Jimmy Porter is a complex character whose abrasive exterior often masks a more sensitive and caring nature. While he frequently expresses anger and frustration, particularly towards those closest to him, there are moments in the play that suggest a deeper capacity for care and compassion.

-Jimmy’s caring nature is most evident in his interactions with Helena and Cliff. Despite his often cruel and harsh demeanor, he demonstrates genuine concern for those he loves. For instance, his relationship with Cliff reveals a bond that goes beyond mere friendship.

-Jimmy’s willingness to support and rely on Cliff hints at a need for companionship and an understanding of loyalty and affection. Moreover, Jimmy’s relationship with his wife, Alison, is fraught with tension and conflict, yet it also reveals moments of vulnerability. His anger can be seen as a manifestation of his deep-seated insecurities and fear of emotional intimacy. Beneath his harsh words, there is a longing for connection and understanding.

-This is particularly evident when Alison suffers a personal tragedy, and Jimmy’s reaction shows his capacity for empathy and care, albeit expressed in a flawed manner. Jimmy’s complexity as a character is central to the play’s exploration of post-war disillusionment and the search for meaning. While his actions often seem contradictory, they reflect the struggle of a man grappling with his emotions and the societal changes around him. In essence, Jimmy’s caring side emerges through the cracks in his often abrasive exterior, suggesting that beneath his anger lies a deep, albeit conflicted, sense of compassion and longing for genuine human connection.

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Number 6

(6)
-In John Osborne’s play “Look Back in Anger,” Helena Charles undergoes a significant transformation that reflects her evolving understanding of herself and her relationships with the other characters. Initially, Helena enters the scene as a friend of Alison, Jimmy’s wife, and is characterized by her conventional views and adherence to social norms.

-At the beginning of the play, Helena is depicted as a contrast to Jimmy’s raw and rebellious nature. She represents order and stability, and she disapproves of Jimmy’s treatment of Alison. Her initial intention is to support Alison and encourage her to leave Jimmy, whom she sees as toxic and damaging. However, as the play progresses, Helena finds herself drawn into the tumultuous world of Jimmy Porter.

-Despite her initial judgment of him, she becomes entangled in an affair with Jimmy after Alison leaves. This marks a pivotal change in her character, as she abandons her previous moral stance and succumbs to the chaotic emotions and passions that Jimmy embodies. Her transformation highlights the seductive nature of Jimmy’s intense personality and the allure of breaking away from societal expectations. Helena’s affair with Jimmy reveals her own vulnerabilities and desires, suggesting a deeper complexity to her character than initially perceived. Yet, this transformation is not without its conflicts.

-Eventually, Helena comes to a realization about the unsustainable nature of her relationship with Jimmy. When Alison returns, Helena decides to leave, acknowledging that she cannot continue living in the emotional turmoil that Jimmy creates. By the end of the play, Helena’s transformation is complete. She returns to her original principles, but with a newfound understanding of the emotional landscape she has navigated. Her journey reflects a movement from judgment and conventionality to passion and self-discovery, and finally to a reconciliation of her values with her experiences. Helena’s transformation underscores the themes of identity, morality, and the complexity of human relationships within the play.

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Number 7

(7)
-Alberta’s death in August Wilson’s play “Fences” has a profound impact on Troy Maxson, the protagonist. Alberta, Troy’s mistress, dies giving birth to their daughter, Raynell. This event forces Troy to confront the consequences of his actions and the realities of his life choices. Alberta’s death brings a significant turning point in Troy’s personal life and his relationships with his family.

-It exposes the strain and tension in his marriage to Rose, as it is the ultimate revelation of his infidelity. Troy is compelled to face Rose with the truth of his betrayal, which further fractures their relationship. Rose, who has been a supportive and dedicated wife, is deeply hurt by Troy’s actions but chooses to raise Raynell as her own, showcasing her resilience and capacity for forgiveness.

-For Troy, Alberta’s death is a moment of reckoning. It highlights the complexity of his character, revealing his vulnerabilities and the inner turmoil he experiences as a result of his decisions. He is forced to navigate the guilt and responsibility of raising a child born from an affair, while simultaneously dealing with the loss of Alberta, who represented an escape from his daily struggles and disappointments.

-In essence, Alberta’s death is a catalyst that accelerates the unraveling of Troy’s life. It compels him to confront the reality of his fractured relationships and the impact of his choices on his family. This event underscores the themes of responsibility, redemption, and the inescapable consequences of one’s actions, which are central to the play’s narrative.

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Number 8

(8)
-August Wilson’s play “Fences” offers a nuanced and deeply engaging portrayal of African-American life in the 1950s. The narrative centers on the experiences of Troy Maxson and his family, reflecting the broader social, economic, and cultural challenges faced by African-Americans during this era.
One of the central themes in the play is the impact of systemic racism and segregation on the aspirations and opportunities available to African-Americans.

-Troy’s own life story is emblematic of the limited avenues for advancement that many Black individuals encountered.
His thwarted dreams of becoming a professional baseball player, stymied by racial barriers despite his talent, serve as a poignant reminder of the pervasive discrimination of the time. Wilson also explores the complexities of familial relationships within the African-American community. The tensions between Troy and his son, Cory, highlight the generational conflicts that arise from differing expectations and dreams.

-Troy’s insistence on practicality and survival, shaped by his own struggles, often clashes with Cory’s aspirations for a future beyond the confines of their immediate reality. This dynamic captures the broader struggle between tradition and progress, a common theme in the African-American experience.

-Furthermore, the play delves into themes of identity and resilience. Through characters like Rose, Wilson illustrates the strength and perseverance of African-American women who often carry the emotional burdens of their families. Rose’s journey reflects the sacrifices and unwavering support that are vital to the family’s cohesion, even in the face of betrayal and hardship.

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Number 9

(9)
-“The Grieved Lands” by Agostinho Neto offers a poignant exploration of the effects of colonialism on African societies. The poem delves into the deep scars left by colonial rule, highlighting themes of exploitation, loss, and resilience. Neto’s diction evokes a sense of mourning and sorrow, as he describes the land and its people who have suffered under the weight of colonial oppression.

-The imagery of the land being “grieved” suggests a profound sense of loss and damage, not only to the physical landscape but also to the cultural and social fabric of the community. The poem captures the exploitation inherent in colonialism, where the colonizers have extracted resources and wealth, leaving behind devastation and impoverishment.

-Neto’s language reflects the systematic stripping away of identity and autonomy, as the colonized people are left to grapple with the remnants of their heritage amidst the imposed foreign structures. Despite the deep wounds inflicted by colonialism, the poem also hints at resilience and the enduring spirit of the people.

-Neto subtly weaves in a sense of hope and determination, suggesting that despite the hardships, there remains a capacity for renewal and resistance. In summary, “The Grieved Lands” offers a powerful commentary on the effects of colonialism, articulating both the profound losses experienced by African societies and the unwavering spirit of resilience that persists in the face of adversity. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Neto captures the complex and enduring legacy of colonial rule.

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Number 10

(10)
-Zhu Song’s poem “The Memory of the Land” reflects on the impact of time on the memory of women within a landscape marked by history and personal narratives. The poem captures how the passage of time weaves itself into the fabric of memory, influencing the way women recall and relate to their past experiences and their connection to the land.

-As time progresses, memories of the women in the poem become layered and complex. The effect of time is depicted as a dual force: it both softens the edges of past hardships and intensifies the longing for what has been lost.
Memories are portrayed as enduring yet evolving, shaped by the ongoing relationship between the women and their environment.

-This connection to the land serves as an anchor for their identities, grounding them even as time threatens to blur the details of their past. Moreover, time imbues the women’s memories with a sense of nostalgia and reflection. The poem suggests that as the years pass, the women gain a deeper understanding of their experiences, viewing them through the lens of wisdom acquired over time.

-This results in a rich tapestry of recollections that are both personal and collective, highlighting the shared history embedded within the land. In essence, “The Memory of the Land” illustrates how time affects memory by adding depth, perspective, and continuity to the women’s stories. It underscores the idea that while individual memories may fade, the collective memory associated with the land endures, preserving the essence of the women’s experiences across generations.

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Number 11

(11)
-In John Donne’s poem “The Good-Morrow,” the poet explores two distinct types of love: the immature, incomplete love of the past and the profound, all-encompassing love of the present. At the beginning of the poem, Donne reflects on the nature of his and his lover’s previous experiences, suggesting that their past loves were mere fantasies or dreams, lacking in true substance.

-This is evident when he refers to their earlier experiences as “not true” and “childish pleasures.” As the poem progresses, Donne contrasts this with the mature love they share now, which is depicted as a waking from those dreams into a new reality.

-This love is characterized by a deep connection and unity, where both lovers are fully awake and aware of each other. He uses metaphors of exploration and discovery, such as “two better hemispheres,” to describe their love as a complete and balanced union, implying a sense of equality and mutual fulfillment.

-The poet further emphasizes the enduring nature of this true love by suggesting that it is eternal and not subject to decay, unlike the fleeting pleasures of past loves. The imagery of two lovers being worlds to each other illustrates the idea of self-sufficiency and completeness. In essence, Donne portrays the transition from a superficial, transient love to a profound, spiritual union that transcends time and space.

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Number 12

(12)
-In Gerard Manley Hopkins’ poem “Binsey Poplars,” the diction is carefully chosen to evoke both the beauty of nature and the sense of loss resulting from its destruction. Hopkins’ use of language is characterized by vivid and rich imagery, as well as a rhythmic and musical quality that enhances the emotional impact of the poem.
The poem begins with a tender and nostalgic tone, as Hopkins describes the poplar trees with affectionate detail.

-He uses words that convey the elegance and grace of these trees, capturing their visual and aesthetic appeal. The diction here is gentle and reverent, reflecting the poet’s deep appreciation for the natural world. As the poem progresses, the diction shifts to convey a sense of mourning and lamentation.

-Hopkins employs words that suggest violence and destruction, such as “hack and rack,” to describe the felling of the trees. This stark contrast between the beauty of the poplars and the brutality of their destruction serves to heighten the reader’s sense of loss and regret. Furthermore, Hopkins often uses compound words and alliteration to create a musicality in the poem, reflecting the natural rhythm of the landscape he describes.

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COMPLETED!!!