2024 NECO GCE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH: 2025 NECO GCE Literature in English (Lit) Verified Ans. (6381)

(1)

In Buchi Emecheta’s Second Class Citizen, the theme of male privilege is vividly explored, portraying the systemic inequalities and gender-based restrictions that women face in patriarchal societies. Adah's experiences from childhood to adulthood highlight the pervasive nature of male privilege, beginning with the cultural preference for male children in her Ibuza community. Her birth was marked by disappointment because she was not the anticipated male child, emphasizing the societal belief that females are inherently less valuable.

This cultural bias manifests in the educational disparity between Adah and her brother, Boy. While Boy attends the prestigious Ladi-Lak Institute, Adah's education is delayed and only reluctantly provided at a cheap Methodist school after persistent protests. Her determination to receive an education reflects her feminist resolve to overcome societal expectations and challenge the male-centric privileges that dominate her upbringing.

Adah’s struggles continue into her marriage to Francis, who embodies the patriarchal mindset prevalent in traditional African societies. Francis views women as inferior, existing to serve men without ambition or autonomy. Adah, however, defies this norm by taking on the role of the breadwinner, providing for her husband and children while enduring Francis’s emotional and psychological abuse. Francis's destructive actions, such as burning the manuscript of her novel 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' The Bride Price, symbolize his attempt to suppress her independence and creative aspirations, illustrating the lengths to which male privilege seeks to maintain dominance.

Despite these challenges, Adah’s resilience shines through. Her decision to leave Francis and reclaim her autonomy is a powerful act of defiance against the societal structures that seek to confine women to subservient roles. Her journey underscores the strength of feminist ideals in confronting and dismantling male privilege. Adah’s life becomes a testament to the possibility of breaking free from the constraints of patriarchy, advocating for equality and self-determination in a world where male privilege continues to dictate the lives of women.

Through Adah’s narrative, Second Class Citizen critiques the deep-rooted gender inequalities that prioritize male entitlement at the expense of women’s rights and freedoms, offering a poignant call for change.

(2)

Buchi Emecheta effectively employs contrast to highlight the themes of tradition versus modernity, gender roles, love versus exploitation, and racial discrimination. The opposing perspectives and actions of key characters like Adah and Francis create a rich narrative tension that underscores the conflicts and societal issues explored in the novel.

The clash between tradition and modernity forms the central conflict in Adah and Francis’s marriage. Adah embodies modernity with her desire for education, independence, and family planning, while Francis clings to traditional African values, reinforcing male dominance and superstition. For example, Francis believes in adhering to outdated customs, such as expecting his wife to weep when he travels and relying on prayers to a river goddess. In contrast, Adah, though respectful of her heritage, rejects superstition and adopts modern family planning methods, a decision that exacerbates their marital tensions.

Gender roles are contrasted sharply between Adah’s progressive mindset and Francis’s traditionalist views. Adah dreams of an egalitarian marriage where both partners contribute equally. However, Francis views women as subservient and dependent, evident in his refusal to work or support their family financially. This contrast highlights the patriarchal constraints women like Adah struggle to overcome.

The theme of love versus exploitation is evident in the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' dynamics of Adah and Francis's relationship. Adah enters the marriage with hopes of partnership and support but quickly realizes that Francis’s intentions are self-serving. While she works tirelessly to sustain the family, Francis exploits her earnings and dismisses her aspirations, demonstrating a parasitic relationship rather than a loving partnership.

Racial discrimination in England further illustrates contrast, particularly in how white landlords treat black tenants like Adah and her family. The novel juxtaposes the freedom and privilege of the white community with the struggles of black immigrants, who face rejection, stereotypes, and systemic racism. Adah’s housing challenges and Francis’s burning of her manuscript are stark reminders of the societal barriers imposed by race.

Through these contrasts, Emecheta not only deepens the readers’ understanding of Adah’s struggles but also critiques the broader societal structures of inequality and oppression, creating a poignant and thought-provoking narrative.

(3)

The title of the novel "Unexpected Joy at Dawn by Alex Agyei-Agyiri" is justified through multiple instances that reflect the surprising yet profound moments of hope and reunion amidst the struggles of the characters. 

These moments of unexpected joy are captured in three significant instances that resonate with the themes of reunion, perseverance, and redemption.

One instance is the reunion of Nii Tackie and his sister, Mama Orojo, after fifteen years of separation caused by xenophobic deportation policies. This traumatic separation, first initiated by Ghana’s Alien Compliance Order of 1969 and later by Nigeria’s own retaliatory expulsion of immigrants, underscores the broader theme of displacement and identity crisis. Despite these challenges, Nii and Mama find each other in Nigeria after years of fruitless searching and unimaginable hardship. Their reunion represents not only the joy of restored familial bonds but also serves as a metaphor for reconciliation and hope between warring nations like Nigeria and Ghana. This moment encapsulates the idea that even after prolonged suffering, life offers moments of unexpected happiness.

Another significant instance is Nii Tackie's personal struggle with identity and survival. Branded as an alien in Ghana despite spending his entire life there, and later rejected in Nigeria despite his Nigerian heritage, Nii’s journey is filled with despair. 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' However, his determination to find his family and start afresh eventually leads to his reunion with Mama, symbolizing that persistence can yield unexpected rewards. Nii’s experience highlights the resilience of the human spirit and demonstrates that joy often comes at the most unexpected moments, even when hope seems lost.

The third instance revolves around the character of Marshak, whose quest for redemption reflects a deeper yearning for identity and self-worth. As a fugitive and prostitute, Marshak desires to turn her life around and escape the circumstances that have trapped her. Although her story ends tragically with her suicide, her struggle underscores the importance of striving for a better life. Her brief moments of hope, especially her interactions with Nii and her wish to mend her ways, represent the fleeting yet powerful nature of unexpected joy.

These instances not only justify the title but also emphasize the novel’s central message: that life’s hardships, though overwhelming, can give way to moments of profound joy and hope. The title Unexpected Joy at Dawn thus captures the resilience of the human spirit, the possibility of reconciliation, and the unpredictable nature of happiness amidst suffering.

(4)

Mama’s decision to travel to Ghana is fueled by a deeply rooted desire to reconnect with her brother, Nii Tackie, whom she has not seen in fifteen years. The separation occurred during the 1969 Alien Compliance Order in Ghana, a policy that displaced many families, including hers, and forced them to seek refuge in Nigeria. Mama's journey reflects her unwavering hope, even in the face of significant personal and societal challenges.

Upon arriving in Ghana, Mama quickly finds herself entangled in the harsh realities of economic decay and social instability. Her business endeavors expose her to betrayal when she unknowingly purchases a fake gold ring from a con artist, "I-put-it-to-me," during her flight. Despite the emotional toll of this deception, Mama remains composed, reporting the incident to the authorities. This act demonstrates her steadfast commitment to justice and her ability to navigate adversity with grace.

The heart of Mama’s journey is her relentless search for Nii. Her investigation takes her to his workplace, where she learns of his absence, and then to Koforidua Hospital, where she uncovers the heartbreaking story of Nii’s wife, Massa, who passed away under tragic circumstances. This discovery only strengthens Mama’s resolve, as she confronts each new setback with determination and hope. Along the way, her compassion shines through when she ensures Massa receives a proper burial in 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' Sampa, connecting with the community in the process. This episode illustrates Mama’s deep sense of responsibility and humanity, even toward those she has never met.

Mama’s journey also serves as a lens through which the novel explores the economic and social challenges of Ghana. The country’s economic crisis, marked by the withdrawal of high-denomination cedi notes and frozen bank accounts, underscores the desperation faced by its citizens. These circumstances mirror the struggles of displaced individuals like Mama and Nii, who must navigate corrupt systems and oppressive conditions in their quest for stability. Mama's experiences with deceit, hardship, and the pervasive corruption of Ghanaian society highlight her resilience and adaptability.

Despite these challenges, Mama’s journey is not devoid of hope and personal growth. Her time in Ghana brings her closer to Joe, her business partner, and their relationship begins to flourish. Their mutual respect and admiration grow into love, adding a layer of personal fulfillment to Mama’s otherwise arduous journey. Her partnership with Joe represents a glimmer of stability and optimism amidst the uncertainty of her search for Nii.

The climax of Mama’s journey is her eventual reunion with Nii in Nigeria, a moment that epitomizes the "unexpected joy" at the heart of the novel. This reunion is the culmination of years of perseverance and serves as a powerful testament to 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' the enduring bonds of family and the triumph of hope over despair. Mama’s journey to Ghana is more than a physical quest—it is a transformative experience that showcases her strength, compassion, and unyielding faith in the possibility of a brighter future.

(5)

(PICK ANY TWO)

(i) Mr. Norton:

          Mr. Norton is an old white man and a co-founder of the narrator’s college.  He is the brains behind the narrator’s expulsion and betrayal by Bledsoe.  Norton represents the white Northern Liberal who considers it his day to civilize blacks.  He feels compelled to help and enlighten blacks whom he considers as inferior people, lacking skills and intelligence to help themselves.

 Although, Norton appears to be a sincere and a generous man, he is simply a new breed of racist who exploits the blacks, as illustrated by his hand red-dollar donation to Jim.  Trueblood after listening to his horrific story of incest.  He is a supporter of all the evils perpetuated by the blacks. This action of his is seen when he rewards blacks for the abusing each other by tossing them brass at the battle royal. Both  Bledsoe and Mr.  Norton promote and perpetuate negative behavior among blacks. They are separated by class, but they share the common bond of race.

(ii) Young Emerson:

          He is a minor but significant character in Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man. He is the son of Mr. Emerson, one of the wealthy trustees the protagonist approaches in hopes of securing a job after being expelled from college. Unlike his father, Young Emerson demonstrates a level of moral awareness and sympathy toward the protagonist's 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' plight.

When the protagonist delivers a sealed letter of recommendation from Dr. Bledsoe, Young Emerson takes the initiative to reveal the contents of the letter. In doing so, he exposes Dr. Bledsoe's betrayal, as the letter secretly instructs employers to deny the protagonist opportunities rather than assist him. This act of revealing the truth highlights Young Emerson’s honesty and willingness to defy authority when he perceives an injustice. His decision to reveal the contents of the letter can be seen as an act of rebellion against his father and the elitist societal structure that Mr. Emerson represents.

Young Emerson is depicted as idealistic and somewhat disillusioned with the privileged world he inhabits. His actions suggest a desire to challenge the status quo and connect with individuals beyond his wealthy and insulated social circle. However, he remains a largely passive figure, as he offers no substantial assistance to the protagonist beyond disclosing the letter’s contents. His moral clarity is tempered by his limited ability—or willingness—to confront the broader systemic issues that the protagonist faces.

(iii) Brother Hambro:

        He is a well-educated communist, who trains the new speakers in communist doctrine.  The narrator trains with Hambro for several months before he is allowed to give public speech again.

Serving as a mentor to the protagonist when he joins the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' Brotherhood. Hambro is a lawyer by profession and is deeply committed to the ideology of the Brotherhood, which is a political organization that claims to work for social justice and equality. His role is primarily to educate the protagonist on the group’s doctrines and train him in their methods of activism.

Hambro is depicted as analytical, pragmatic, and unemotional. He prioritizes the collective goals of the Brotherhood over individual needs or moral considerations. This becomes evident when he explains to the protagonist that the organization's strategies might involve sacrificing individuals or groups for the greater good. His rigid adherence to the Brotherhood’s ideology underscores the dehumanizing aspects of institutional politics, as personal relationships and ethical dilemmas are often ignored in favor of abstract goals.

Although Hambro’s mentorship helps the protagonist gain a deeper understanding of the Brotherhood’s operations, it also contributes to the protagonist’s eventual disillusionment with the organization. Hambro represents the cold, calculating side of political movements, where human lives and emotions are secondary to achieving power and influence.

(iv) The Veteran :

         He is an enigmatic character who represents a voice of truth and irony. He appears early in the novel, particularly during the protagonist’s journey to New York, where he offers biting commentary on race, 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' identity, and society. A former military man who is now institutionalized in a mental asylum, the veteran is portrayed as intelligent and insightful but dismissed by others as delusional.

The veteran serves as a foil to the protagonist. While the protagonist is naïve and hopeful about conforming to societal expectations, the veteran exposes the hypocrisy and limitations of those very systems. He critiques the racial and social dynamics of the time, often speaking in a manner that combines humor and bitterness. For instance, he mocks Mr. Norton, the white trustee of the protagonist's college, pointing out the absurdity of Norton’s paternalistic attitudes toward Black people.

Though the veteran's words are often disregarded due to his status as a "madman," they carry deep truths about the protagonist’s journey and the broader societal issues. His commentary foreshadows the protagonist's eventual disillusionment with institutions like the Brotherhood and his realization of the need to define his own identity.

(6)

The event took place in a hotel ballroom, where the protagonist and other young Black men are blindfolded and forced to fight one another in a chaotic, violent brawl. The humiliating spectacle is designed purely for the entertainment of the white men, who jeer, laugh, and encourage the violence. After the fight, the boys are made to scramble for coins on an electrified rug, further emphasizing their exploitation and humiliation. Despite his humiliation and injuries, the protagonist delivers his prepared speech about Black progress and humility, which he had hoped would win him the respect of his audience. Instead, he is met with indifference and mockery, though he is ultimately awarded a briefcase and a scholarship to a Black college.

This violent episode is more than just a physical altercation; it is a vivid symbol of the systemic racism that plagues American society. The blindfolds worn by the boys represent the enforced ignorance and blindness imposed on them, both by society and themselves, as they are unable to see the true nature of their exploitation. The electrified rug that they are forced to scramble over further symbolizes the way Black bodies are manipulated and used by white society for its own benefit. The white audience’s enjoyment of the spectacle underscores the dehumanization of the Black individuals involved, who are reduced to mere pawns in a game of racial oppression.

The battle royal 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' sets the tone for the protagonist’s journey throughout the novel. His initial belief that his speech might earn him respect is swiftly shattered by the reality of his position in a racially stratified world. The moment he delivers his speech, hoping to gain the approval of the white men, it becomes evident that his words mean little to them. Instead, his reward—a scholarship to a Black college—while seemingly positive, is filled with irony. It represents the false promise of upward mobility and education in a society that continues to deny true equality and opportunity to Black individuals. This experience marks the beginning of the protagonist's journey towards understanding his "invisibility" in a world that refuses to acknowledge him as an individual.

The Battle Royal is a powerful commentary on the dehumanizing effects of racism. Through the brutal treatment of the boys, Ellison shows how Black individuals are not only exploited but also pitted against one another in a system that thrives on division and oppression. The protagonist’s eventual disillusionment with the notion of progress and respect in a society that continues to marginalize him reflects the broader theme of the novel, which is the search for identity and self-worth in a racially divided world.

(7)

The author presents a complex and often bleak portrayal of religion, particularly through the actions and attitudes of the characters, which reflect a harsh view of the divine and its influence on human lives. The religious context in the novel serves as both a moral backdrop and a source of conflict, exposing the limitations of faith, the role of fate, and the tension between earthly desires and spiritual salvation.

One of the key aspects of religion in the novel  is the contrasting views on Christianity between different characters. Characters like Hindley Earnshaw and Heathcliff exhibit attitudes that are deeply cynical and dismissive of religious doctrine. Heathcliff, in particular, is portrayed as someone who rebels against conventional religious values, rejecting the possibility of redemption or forgiveness. His obsession with revenge and his treatment of others, especially his cruel treatment of Hindley and the Linton family, suggests a belief in a world where traditional religious principles hold no power. This rejection of Christianity is further emphasized by his actions towards the end of the novel, where he appears to be haunted by the ghost of Catherine, signifying a longing for reunion in death, which transcends the spiritual teachings of heaven and hell.

In contrast, characters like Nelly Dean and Edgar Linton are more aligned with traditional Christian values. Nelly, in her recounting of the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' story, often reflects upon the moral failings of others and their lack of piety. However, her narrative voice also reveals the limitations of the religious framework she adheres to, especially when it comes to the harsh realities faced by the characters. For example, Nelly tries to instill a sense of guilt or moral responsibility in Catherine, but her efforts ultimately fail to change Catherine’s selfish and destructive behavior, showcasing the limits of religious guidance in the face of intense personal desires.

Religion also plays a significant role in the novel's exploration of suffering and punishment. The characters frequently experience intense emotional and physical torment, yet there is little evidence of divine intervention or consolation. Heathcliff’s torment, both in his life and in death, suggests a form of spiritual punishment, but there is no clear sign of divine justice, leaving the reader with a sense of futility and despair. This is especially evident in Heathcliff’s final obsession with Catherine’s ghost, suggesting that his love for her transcends both life and death, further distancing the novel from traditional Christian notions of afterlife and salvation.

Uses religion not as a moral framework that guides characters toward salvation, but rather as a tool to explore the complexities of human passion, revenge, and suffering. The absence of clear religious redemption in the novel underscores the bleakness of the 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' characters’ lives, where spiritual comfort and divine justice are not easily attained. Instead, the novel suggests that human suffering, desire, and obsession often overshadow the potential for religious or moral resolution. This portrayal of religion aligns with the novel's overall themes of isolation, torment, and the consequences of intense emotional attachments.

(8)

Cathy Earnshaw:

     Cathy is the daughter of Mr. Earnshaw who falls in love with Heathcliff, the orphan Mr. Earnshaw brings home from Liverpool.  Cathy loves Heathcliff so intensely that she claims they are the same person.  However the desire for advancement motivates her to marry Edger Linton instead Cathy is free-spirited spoilt and often arrogant.  She is given to fits of anger and she is torn between her wild passion for Healthcliff and her social ambition.  She brings misery to both men who love her.

Despite she dies halfway through the novel, Cathy is defined by her struggle between her love for the wild Heathcliff and her relationship with proper Edgar, and in death she exudes enduring power on Heathcliff all the way until his death.

Her transformation begins when she’s attacked by one of the Linton’s dogs spending five weeks recovering at Thrushcross Grange.  She undergoes a dramatic transformation into a proud proper young lady.  She begins a romance with Edgar Linton despite she is still in love with Heathcliff, as she confesses to the housekeeper, Ellen.  This makes her very gullible.  When Heathcliff eavesdrops, only to hear Cathy says she can’t marry Heathcliff because it would degrade her and he leaves for three years.

Cathy maintained an impressive and powerful presence in the novel even after her death. Both of them explore their surrounding together 'copied from e x a m p l a z a . c o m free' and share each other’s feelings.  Cathy believes she can find all the pleasures of life with Edgar but Heathcliff’s love remains alive in her heart’ desire, but instead she goes for the one her mind suggested.

She is intensely passionate and generally finds it difficult to withhold her emotions or hide her passion. When it comes to her marriage, she grows self-centered and decides to marry Edgar in the hope of a better life.  She had never feel the kind of intense love that she had felt for Heathcliff and afterwards she laments her decision. She ends up getting bound in a relationship where she left everything but not the kind of love she wanted in her life.

Ellen describes her as being defiant, unruly, adventurous and still adorable.  Her stubbornness becomes the cause of all her sorrows