Observation

This question requires candidates to discuss the usage of proverbs in the play and how effective those usages are. Most candidates only cited several proverbs used in the play without explaining their meaning. They were also unable to explain what proverb means.

Candidates’ responses were expected to contain the following:

• Identification of the major themes of Patriarchy and rivalry in leadership

• Definition of proverbs: proverbs are wise sayings drawn from the observance of nature. They are used to admonish or advise people in order to effect behavioural change.
• Gbanya:

‘When the loins of a husband catch fire, that fire must be quenched instantly’.
This proverb explores the use of fire as a symbol for the sexual urge that has mounted in Gbanya. He expects the desire in him to be satisfied by his wife immediately.

• Yoko:

‘Indeed when a hen leaves her chicks in the hands of the hawk, she has no one to blame if they disappear’. This is said by Yoko when she hears the news of Jeneba’s death when she returns to Senehun after being away for three days. The implication is that, Lamboi, Ndapi and others could not keep the chiefdom in peace.

• Palace Guard:

‘She is putting her palm kennels into the fire and using our fingers to pull them out of the flames.’
The palace Guard says this to Ndapi (Chief Warrior) as they discuss the war into which
Yoko, their ruler, has plunged Mende Chiefdom.

Only a few candidates were able to do these; and the performance was fair.