2022 JAMB LITERATURE PAST QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

The correct answer is Antagonist (A). The antagonist is the character who opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and driving the narrative forward. The protagonist (B) is the main character, the central figure the story revolves around. An anti-hero (C) is a protagonist with flawed or unconventional traits, while a clown (D) is typically a comedic character, not necessarily opposing the hero.

The correct answer is Simile (C). This sentence uses a simile, a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two different things using “like” or “as”. Here, “like a tiger” compares his fighting style to that of a tiger, emphasizing its ferocity. Assonance (A) refers to the repetition of vowel sounds, Hyperbole (B) is exaggerated statements, and Personification (D) attributes human traits to non-human entities.

The correct answer is Letter (B). An epistolary novel is written as a series of documents, typically letters, which allows readers to gain insights into characters’ thoughts and feelings directly. Essay (A), Drama (C), and Dialogue (D) are different literary forms but do not specifically refer to the epistolary method.

The correct answer is Allegory (D). An allegory is a narrative that uses symbolic figures, actions, and imagery to convey complex ideas and messages beneath the surface story. Elegy (A) is a mournful poem, Ode (B) is a lyrical poem expressing praise, and Epic (C) is a long narrative poem about heroic deeds. Allegories often teach moral, political, or spiritual lessons.

The correct answer is Parallelism (C). Parallelism involves using the same grammatical structure in successive phrases or sentences, enhancing readability and rhythm. Paratactic structure (A) refers to coordinating clauses without subordinating conjunctions, Similarity (B) is a general term, and Repetitive structure (D) is not a standard literary term. Parallelism is often used to emphasize ideas and create a pleasing symmetry in writing.

The correct answer is Alliteration (B). Alliteration is the repetition of the same consonant sounds at the beginning of nearby words, often used to create rhythm or mood in poetry and prose. Alternation (A) refers to the occurrence of different forms or patterns, Emphasis (C) is stress placed on certain words, and Irony (D) is a contrast between expectation and reality.

The correct answer is Tragedy (A). Tragedy is a dramatic work that typically ends in disaster for the main character, evoking pity and fear in the audience. Comedy (B) is intended to amuse and entertain, Tragicomedy (C) blends elements of both tragedy and comedy, and Sad story (D) is a general term that does not specifically refer to a dramatic genre. Tragedies often explore complex themes like fate, loss, and human suffering.

The correct answer is Allusion (C). An allusion is an indirect reference to a person, event, place, or literary work, enhancing the depth and meaning by drawing on the audience’s prior knowledge. Referencing (A) is a general term, Ambiguity (B) involves uncertainty, and Atmosphere (D) refers to the mood or feeling in a work. Allusions enrich the text by adding layers of significance without explicit explanation.

The correct answer is Eponymous (B). An eponymous character is one whose name is the title of the work, in this case, Robinson Crusoe is both the title and the main character. Sad (A) is a general trait, Weak (C) describes character strength, and Circumstantial (D) refers to conditions or factors affecting a character. Eponymous emphasizes the central role of the character in the narrative.

The correct answer is Motif (B). A motif is a recurring element that has symbolic significance and contributes to the development of themes within a literary work. Legend (A) refers to traditional stories, Anecdote (C) is a short, amusing story, and Allusion (D) is an indirect reference. Motifs help unify a work by reinforcing its central themes through repetition and variation.

The correct answer is Sidi is superior to the Bale (B). In Wole Soyinka’s “The Lion and the Jewel,” Sidi is portrayed as the twinkle of a jewel, symbolizing her beauty and desirability, while Baroka, the Bale, is likened to the hind-quarters of a lion, emphasizing his strength and dominance. This contrast highlights the power dynamics and character traits within the play. Other options misinterpret the symbolism.

The correct answer is Baroka (C). Baroka, the Bale in “The Lion and the Jewel,” is depicted as a master of self-indulgence, enjoying power, control, and the pleasures it brings. This characterization underscores his manipulative and authoritative nature. Sidi (A), Lakunle (B), and Sadiku (D) have different roles and traits, making Baroka the accurate choice for this description.

The correct answer is Baroka (D). In “The Lion and the Jewel,” Baroka is referred to as the Lion, symbolizing his strength, authority, and leadership within the village. The other options—photojournalist (A), Sidi (B), and Lakunle (C)—do not embody the same symbolic representation as Baroka. This metaphor emphasizes his dominant role and influence over the community.

The correct answer is Biblical allusion (B). This statement references the biblical notion that prophets often face rejection or lack of recognition outside their immediate communities, drawing on religious texts to convey its meaning. Allegory (A) involves symbolic narratives, Cultural allusion (C) refers to references specific to a culture, and Foreshadowing (D) hints at future events.

The correct answer is Modernity and civilisation (A). In “The Lion and the Jewel,” the camera symbolizes the intrusion of modernity and the influence of Western civilization on traditional African society. It represents change, observation, and the shift from traditional values to contemporary ones. Cultural setting (B), Communal living (C), and Culture and modernity (D) are related but less specific.

The correct answer is Jazz trumpet (B). In John Osborne’s “Look Back in Anger,” Jimmy plays the jazz trumpet in Act II, which reflects his attempt to connect emotionally and express himself musically amidst the turmoil and conflicts in his life. The other options—Harmonica (A), Guitar (C), and Tambourine (D)—are not accurate representations of the instrument he plays, highlighting the specific musical element used in the play.

The correct answer is Alison (D). In “Look Back in Anger,” Alison leaves Jimmy at the end of the play, signifying the culmination of their tumultuous relationship and Jimmy’s inability to reconcile his frustrations and desires. Helena (A), Madeline (B), and Clid (C) have different roles and do not directly leave Jimmy, making Alison the correct choice.

The correct answer is Alison’s father (A). In “Look Back in Anger,” Colonel Redfern is portrayed as Alison’s father, representing traditional authority and societal expectations. Jimmy’s conflicts with Colonel Redfern highlight generational and ideological differences. Jimmy’s friend (B), Helena’s father (C), and Clid’s father (D) do not accurately describe Colonel Redfern’s role in the play.

The correct answer is Lewis (D). Clid Lewis is a character in “Look Back in Anger,” serving as a friend to Jimmy and a supporter of Alison. His surname, Lewis, distinguishes him from other characters and emphasizes his role within the social dynamics of the play. Rhys (A), Jones (B), and Porter (C) are not Clid’s surnames, making Lewis the accurate choice.

The correct answer is Lappas (A). In Buchi Emecheta’s “Second-class citizen,” Ibuza prepares for Lawyer Nweze’s arrival by making lappas and blouses, showcasing her meticulousness and the cultural significance of attire in welcoming guests. Skirts (B), Wrappers (C), and Scarves (D) are different garments, but lappas specifically align with the cultural context of the novel.

The correct answer is Seamstress (C). In “Second-class citizen,” Adah’s mother works as a seamstress, reflecting her skills in tailoring and contributing to the family’s livelihood. Cook (A), Singer (B), and Cloth merchant (D) are different occupations, but seamstress accurately describes her profession, highlighting her role in the household and the narrative.

The correct answer is Foreshadowing (B). Boy’s early dislike and suspicion of Francis based on his appearance serves as foreshadowing, hinting at Francis’s true character and the challenges that Adah will face in her relationship with him. Allergy (A) is unrelated, Prophecy (C) implies a prediction, and Prediction (D) is too general. Foreshadowing effectively builds anticipation for future events.

The correct answer is Methodists Girls’ School (D). In “Second-class citizen,” Adah’s academic excellence earns her a scholarship to Methodists Girls’ School, highlighting her dedication and the opportunities education provides. Ladi-Lak institute (A), Ibuza Girl’s College (B), and Lagos College (C) are other institutions but do not specifically align with the scholarship awarded to Adah in the narrative.

The correct answer is Strenuous and risky (C). In Alex Agyei-Agyiri’s “Unexpected Joy at Dawn,” Nli’s journey from Togo to Benin involves significant challenges and dangers, reflecting the hardships faced during migration. Enjoyable (A), Lovely but challenging (B), and Great and full of interesting events (D) do not fully capture the perilous nature of his journey.

The correct answer is Jimo (B). In “Unexpected Joy at Dawn,” the works foreman is referred to as Jimo, playing a crucial role in the construction and operational aspects of the narrative. Alvororo (A), Abbey (C), and Ezia (D) are other characters or titles but do not represent the works foreman, making Jimo the accurate designation.

The correct answer is Miliki house (C). In “Unexpected Joy at Dawn,” the caretaker is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and daily operations of the Miliki house, ensuring its proper management. Musa Orojo’s compound (A), Mama’s construction company (B), and Beeyes Restaurant (D) are different establishments, but Miliki house specifically aligns with the caretaker’s duties in the story.

The correct answer is Stealing a Lantern (A). In Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights,” Lockwood is falsely accused of stealing a lantern, which leads to further tensions and misunderstandings within the household. Drunk fight (B), Killing a man (C), and Oppressing the people (D) are not events that Lockwood is accused of in the novel, making Stealing a Lantern the accurate choice.

The correct answer is Ellis Bell (A). Emily Brontë published “Wuthering Heights” under the pseudonym Ellis Bell, which was a common practice for female authors of the time to avoid gender bias. Thomas Brontë (B), Anne Brontë (C), and Emmy Brontë (D) are either her siblings or fictional, but Ellis Bell is the correct pseudonym used for this publication.

The correct answer is Edger Linton (B). In “Wuthering Heights,” Isabella is the sister of Edgar Linton, a refined and gentle character who contrasts with the more wild and passionate inhabitants of Wuthering Heights. Catherine (A), Lockwood (C), and Hindley (D) are other characters in the novel, but Edgar Linton is Isabella’s brother, highlighting familial relationships and social standings.

The correct answer is Gimmerton (C). Gimmerton is the nearby village to Wuthering Heights in Emily Brontë’s novel, serving as a contrast to the wild and isolated nature of the Earnshaw household. Purvey (A), Heatherton (B), and Chesine (D) are other locations mentioned in the novel, but Gimmerton specifically denotes the neighboring village, emphasizing the geographic and social dynamics between the two settings.

The correct answer is Individualism (C). In Femi Osofisan’s “Morountodun,” social change is portrayed as being driven by individual actions and personal transformations rather than collective efforts. This highlights the impact of personal agency and the role of key individuals in initiating and sustaining societal shifts. Collectivism (A), Sectionalism (B), and Communism (D) represent different approaches to social change but do not align with the play’s emphasis on individual contributions.

The correct answer is To defy the police (D). In “Morountodun,” Titubi joins the farmer’s revolt as an act of defiance against oppressive authorities, specifically the police, highlighting themes of resistance and rebellion against injustice. Ensuring its success (A), acting as a spy (B), and pursuing Marshal (C) do not accurately capture the primary motivation behind her involvement in the revolt.

The correct answer is Role-playing (C). In “Morountodun,” the re-enactment of the Moremi legend serves as role-playing, allowing characters to embody historical or mythical figures to convey cultural values, moral lessons, and societal critiques. Dramatic epilogue (A), Dramatic monologue (B), and Flashback (D) are different narrative techniques, but role-playing specifically refers to acting out roles within the story.

The correct answer is Prevent Snowball from coming back to the farm (A). In “Animal Farm,” Napoleon orders the execution of certain animals to eliminate potential threats and consolidate his power, specifically aiming to prevent Snowball, his rival, from returning and challenging his authority. Making the pigs constitute themselves into special classes (B), achieving socialist goals (C) are broader outcomes, but the primary intent is to suppress opposition.

The correct answer is No society exists where everyone is equal (D). “Animal Farm” serves as an allegory for the Russian Revolution and subsequent Soviet Union, illustrating the corruption of socialist ideals and the emergence of a new oppressive regime where equality is only superficial. Capitalism being as bad as communism (A), Humanism being better (B), and Communism being better than capitalism (C) are not the central messages conveyed by Orwell’s critique of power and inequality.

The correct answer is Simile (B). This line uses a simile by comparing the action to a sculpture chipping away, using “like” to draw the comparison. Metaphor (A) makes a direct comparison without using “like” or “as,” Personification (C) attributes human traits to non-human things, and Alliteration (D) involves repeating consonant sounds. The simile enhances the descriptive imagery.

The correct answer is Alliteration (B). These lines repeat the initial consonant sounds (‘Fl’, ‘Tw’, ‘Ll’), creating a rhythmic and musical effect typical of alliteration. Assonance (A) involves vowel sounds, Simile (C) uses comparisons, and Metaphor (D) implies direct comparisons. Alliteration enhances the poem’s auditory appeal and cohesion.

The correct answer is Racism (A). “Caged Bird” metaphorically represents the struggles and limitations imposed by racism, contrasting the free bird’s liberty with the caged bird’s confinement. Poverty (B), Gender (C), and Restriction (D) may be related themes but do not encapsulate the primary focus on racial oppression and inequality as central to the poem’s message.

The correct answer is Hyperbole (C). This line exaggerates the idea of a small room encompassing the entire world, emphasizing the depth of love and connection between lovers. Euphemism (A) softens harsh realities, Imagery (B) creates sensory experiences, and Allusion (D) references another work or concept. Hyperbole intensifies the emotional expression in the poem.

The correct answer is A metaphor for life’s journey (A). The poem uses the journey of the Magi as a metaphor to explore themes of faith, transformation, and the complexities of personal growth. A narration of people on a journey (B) and about travelers (C) are literal interpretations, while the challenges of a long journey (D) are secondary to the metaphorical significance that reflects life’s spiritual and existential quests.