Literature-In-English Paper 2 WASSCE (SC), 2019

Question 6

    RICHARD WRIGHT: Native Son

    Examine the significance of Bigger Thomas’ trial in the novel.

Observation

 

This was an unpopular question among candidates. The few who attempted the question gave a mere narration of what they know about Bigger. They seemed not to realise when the trial began and ended. Hence, the significance was lost in their narration.

The following points should be well developed by the candidates:

  • “Native Son” as a novel on the problem of racism.
  • The trial exposes the vicious cycle of oppression.
  • The reality of racism. Not all whites are racist.
  • Hypocrisy of whites.
  • Outcome of the trial stating the inequity in American criminal justice system, media judging ahead of court trial and the sentencing of Bigger to death.

 

Candidates’ performance was poor.