Why is Mumbi in tears?
Refer to lines 12–13 (‘The change of … slaughtered, startled her’) - NSC English FAL - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 5
Why is Mumbi in tears?
Refer to lines 12–13 (‘The change of … slaughtered, startled her’).
(a) Identify the figure of speech used in these lines.
(b) Explain the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Why is Mumbi in tears?
Refer to lines 12–13 (‘The change of … slaughtered, startled her’) - NSC English FAL - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Why is Mumbi in tears?
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Answer
Mumbi is in tears due to the overwhelming sorrow she feels for the victims of war and loss, particularly the orphans and widows. Her emotional turmoil is heightened by the realization of the suffering that has transpired and her sense of helplessness.
Step 2
Refer to lines 12–13 (‘The change of … slaughtered, startled her’).
(a) Identify the figure of speech used in these lines.
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Answer
The figure of speech used in these lines is a simile, as it compares Mugo's voice to a groan made by an animal facing slaughter, emphasizing the depth of his despair.
Step 3
(b) Explain the suitability of this figure of speech.
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This figure of speech is suitable as it conveys the intense fear and vulnerability felt by Mugo, drawing a powerful parallel between human emotion and the raw instinct of animals in danger, thus highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Step 4
In lines 15–16, Mugo says, ‘Then he came … into the stream.’
(a) To whom does Mugo refer in these lines?
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Mugo refers to Kihika, who embodies the struggle for freedom and whose path Mugo finds himself intertwined with.
Step 5
(b) What does Mugo mean by ‘pulled me into the stream’?
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Mugo means that he feels he has been drawn into the ongoing struggle and turmoil of the fight for independence, unable to escape the current of events that affect everyone around him.
Step 6
Refer to line 18 (‘Who? What are you talking about?’).
(a) Identify the tone used by Mumbi in this line.
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The tone used by Mumbi is one of confusion and desperation, as she struggles to grasp the reality of the situation presented to her by Mugo.
Step 7
(b) Why would Mumbi’s tone be appropriate in this line?
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Mumbi's tone is appropriate as it reflects her emotional state and the shock she experiences upon hearing about the implications of Mugo’s words, which relate to personal loss and betrayal.
Step 8
Explain what this extract reveals about Mumbi’s character.
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This extract illustrates Mumbi’s deep sense of empathy and emotional intelligence. Her capability to feel the pain of others and her inner conflict show her as a compassionate and aware individual caught in a tragic situation.
Step 9
Refer to lines 1–2 (‘Thinking about this … arrived on time.’).
(a) How does Karanja feel towards Mugo at this point in the novel?
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Karanja feels resentment and perhaps envy towards Mugo, viewing him as someone who is respected and revered despite the turmoil created by the political unrest.
Step 10
(b) Give a reason for your answer to QUESTION 5.2.1(a).
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Karanja's feelings are influenced by his own circumstances and experiences, which contrast sharply with Mugo’s perceived status and role in the community.
Step 11
Choose the correct answer to complete the following sentence.
In the novel, the concept of Uhuru means …
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A independence.
Step 12
Explain why it is ironic that Mugo is asked to speak about Kihika at the Uhuru celebrations.
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It is ironic because Mugo, who has personal connections and complex emotions regarding Kihika’s fate, is put in the position to speak about someone he has betrayed, highlighting the themes of sacrifice and betrayal in the struggle for independence.
Step 13
To what does ‘this’ refer?
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‘This’ refers to the act of Karanja killing the men, representing the moral complexities and the loss of innocence during the fight for freedom.
Step 14
Give ONE reason for Karanja becoming a homeguard.
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Karanja becomes a homeguard as a means of self-preservation and protection for his own safety and to gain favor from the colonial authorities.
Step 15
Explain why Karanja feels that his ‘Life was empty’ (line 14).
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Karanja feels his life is empty as he faces disillusionment and loss, feeling that the acts he engages in have stripped away any sense of purpose or fulfillment.
Step 16
Refer to line 15 (‘He paid for the meal he had not eaten ...’).
Why does Karanja not eat the food?
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Karanja does not eat the food as it symbolizes his emotional detachment and his sense of guilt, creating a barrier between him and the community he feels he has betrayed.
Step 17
Why is the following statement FALSE?
Karanja and Mumbi are married.
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The statement is false because Karanja and Mumbi are not married; their relationship is rooted in unfulfilled desires and societal constraints.
Step 18
One of the themes in the novel is sacrifice.
Discuss this theme.
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The theme of sacrifice is prevalent throughout the novel, highlighting how individuals sacrifice their lives, relationships, and morals in the pursuit of freedom. Key characters exemplify this through their choices and the consequences they face, such as Mugo’s internal conflict and Kihika’s fate.
Step 19
Refer to the novel as a whole.
In your opinion, why are some of the issues explored in A Grain of Wheat still relevant today?
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Many issues in A Grain of Wheat, such as betrayal, the struggle for independence, and the quest for identity, remain relevant today. Contemporary societies still grapple with the aftermath of colonialism and the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.
