JAMB Past Questions

JAMB Literature In English 2000
Questions & Answers

40 questions · Correct answers highlighted · 40 with explanations

40 Total Questions
2000 Exam Year
40 With Explanations
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1
Question 1 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘My heart is a lonely hunter that hunts on a lonely hill’ by William Sharp, the literary device used in the phrase ‘my heart is a lonely hunter’ is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The phrase compares the heart to a hunter without using ‘like’ or ‘as,’ making it a metaphor.

2
Question 2 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘The wind howled like a pack of wolves in the night,’ the figure of speech is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The comparison of the wind’s sound to wolves using ‘like’ is a simile.

3
Question 3 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘O wild West Wind, thou breath of Autumn’s being’ by Percy Bysshe Shelley, the literary device used in addressing the wind as ‘thou’ is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Addressing the inanimate wind as if it were a person is an apostrophe.

4
Question 4 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘The life of man is of no more duration than the breath of his nostrils’ by Plato, the figure of speech is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The ‘breath of his nostrils’ represents the whole of human life, a use of synecdoche.

5
Question 5 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world’ by W.B. Yeats, the mood conveyed is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The imagery of collapse and anarchy creates a mood of chaos.

6
Question 6 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘He was a lion in the fight, but a lamb at home,’ the figures of speech used are:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

‘Lion’ and ‘lamb’ are metaphors for bravery and gentleness, and their contrast is an antithesis.

7
Question 7 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘The stars danced playfully in the moonlit sky,’ the figure of speech is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Attributing the human action of dancing to stars is personification.

8
Question 8 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Figures of Speech and General Appreciation of Literature, in the excerpt ‘Blow, blow, thou winter wind, Thou art not so unkind As man’s ingratitude’ by William Shakespeare, the tone of the speaker is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The comparison of the wind to human ingratitude conveys a bitter tone.

9
Question 9 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart*, the primary reason for Okonkwo’s exile is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Okonkwo is exiled for seven years after accidentally killing a clansman.

10
Question 10 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart*, the character who represents the clash between tradition and Christianity is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Nwoye’s conversion to Christianity reflects his rejection of Igbo traditions.

11
Question 11 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Buchi Emecheta’s *Second Class Citizen*, Adah’s struggle is primarily against:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Adah faces racism in the UK and gender-based oppression from her husband.

12
Question 12 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Buchi Emecheta’s *The Joys of Motherhood*, the novel critiques the societal expectation that women’s value lies in:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Nnu Ego’s worth is tied to her ability to bear children, reflecting societal pressures.

13
Question 13 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Ferdinand Oyono’s *The Old Man and the Medal*, Meka’s disillusionment stems from his realization that the medal is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The medal is a hollow gesture by colonial authorities, highlighting exploitation.

14
Question 14 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart*, the significance of the egwugwu in Umuofia is their role as:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The egwugwu represent ancestral spirits and serve as judges in disputes.

15
Question 15 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Buchi Emecheta’s *Second Class Citizen*, the setting of the novel primarily highlights the challenges of:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Adah’s experiences in London underscore the difficulties of being an immigrant.

16
Question 16 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Ferdinand Oyono’s *The Old Man and the Medal*, the character Kelara is significant because she:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Kelara’s strength and support for Meka highlight the resilience of African women.

17
Question 17 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Buchi Emecheta’s *The Joys of Motherhood*, Nnaife’s character illustrates the theme of:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Nnaife’s reliance on others reflects economic dependency.

18
Question 18 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart*, the destruction of the church in Umuofia is triggered by:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Enoch’s act provokes the clan’s retaliation, leading to the church’s destruction.

19
Question 19 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on William Shakespeare’s *Romeo and Juliet*, the character who serves as Romeo’s confidant is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Friar Laurence is Romeo’s trusted advisor, aiding him in his marriage.

20
Question 20 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on William Shakespeare’s *Romeo and Juliet*, the feud between the Montagues and Capulets represents the theme of:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The feud’s irrational nature underscores the destructive power of hatred.

21
Question 21 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Wole Soyinka’s *The Lion and the Jewel*, Baroka’s character is best described as:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Baroka uses cunning to maintain traditional authority and win Sidi.

22
Question 22 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Wole Soyinka’s *The Lion and the Jewel*, the play’s use of dance and music emphasizes:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Dance and music highlight the vibrancy of Yoruba cultural traditions.

23
Question 23 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on August Wilson’s *Fences*, Rose’s character primarily represents:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Rose’s devotion to her family reflects her loyalty and sacrifice.

24
Question 24 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on August Wilson’s *Fences*, Troy’s refusal to let Cory play football reflects his:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Troy’s experiences with racism in sports lead him to fear similar barriers for Cory.

25
Question 25 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on J.C. De Graft’s *Sons and Daughters*, Aaron’s conflict with his father centers on his desire to:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Aaron’s artistic ambitions clash with his father’s conventional expectations.

26
Question 26 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Wole Soyinka’s *The Lion and the Jewel*, Sidi’s beauty is compared to that of:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Sidi is referred to as the ‘jewel’ of Ilujinle, symbolizing her beauty.

27
Question 27 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on William Shakespeare’s *Romeo and Juliet*, the turning point of the play occurs when:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Romeo’s killing of Tybalt leads to his banishment, escalating the tragedy.

28
Question 28 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on J.C. De Graft’s *Sons and Daughters*, the play explores the theme of:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The play centers on tensions between parents and children over career choices.

29
Question 29 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, in Gabriel Okara’s *Piano and Drums*, the drums symbolize:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The drums represent the speaker’s African heritage and traditional life.

30
Question 30 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, the theme of Lenrie Peters’ *The Panic of Growing Older* is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The poem expresses anxiety about aging and unachieved dreams.

31
Question 31 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, in Wole Soyinka’s *Telephone Conversation*, the landlady’s questions reveal her:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The landlady’s inquiry about the speaker’s skin color exposes her racism.

32
Question 32 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, the imagery in David Diop’s *Africa* is dominated by:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Diop’s poem depicts Africa’s colonial suffering and defiant spirit.

33
Question 33 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, in J.P. Clark’s *Agbor Dancer*, the dancer’s movements reflect:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The dancer’s vibrant performance celebrates her cultural identity.

34
Question 34 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, the tone of John Donne’s *The Sun Rising* is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The poet playfully challenges the sun’s authority over his love.

35
Question 35 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, in Thomas Gray’s *Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard*, the poet reflects on:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The poem meditates on how death levels all social distinctions.

36
Question 36 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): *New Poetry from African*; Soyinka (ed.) *Poems of Black Africa*; T. Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T. (eds.): *A Selection of African Poetry*; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.): *Exam Focus: Literature in English*; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.): *Longman Examination Guides* and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.): *West African Verse*, the structure of Christopher Okigbo’s *The Passage* is:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The poem uses free verse to convey its spiritual and symbolic journey.

37
Question 37 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on General Literary Principles, a literary work that exaggerates characters and events for humorous effect is a:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

A caricature exaggerates traits for comic or satirical purposes.

38
Question 38 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on General Literary Principles, the moment of greatest emotional intensity in a literary work is the:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

The climax is the point of highest tension or conflict in the narrative.

39
Question 39 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart*, the theme of fate versus personal choice is illustrated through:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

Okonkwo’s efforts to overcome his father’s failures highlight his battle with fate.

40
Question 40 of 40
JAMB · Literature In English · 2000

Based on General Literary Principles, the concept of a tragic flaw, or hamartia, refers to:

A.
B.
C.
D.
Explanation

A tragic flaw is a character’s internal weakness, like pride, that leads to their downfall.

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