ENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE P2
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016
MEMORANDUM
NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE
GRADE 12

SECTION A: POETRY
QUESTION 1: PRESCRIBED POETRY – ESSAY
THE WILD DOVES AT LOUIS TRICHARDT – WILLIAM PLOMER

Man and animals have contrasting reactions to the heat.

• In stanza 1, both man and ants are working, ‘bearing loads’. The cranes are ‘bowing’ and the mason hornet ‘shapes’ his house. This suggests that the animals feel comfortable in the heat. However, in the case of man, the ‘sweat runs’ as the ‘sun’s gong beats’ – this implies that the sun is aggressive and man feels helpless.
• The end of stanza one, which has focused on the serenity and productivity of the animals, introduces man as an intruder, a source of disruption/destruction – the ‘ominous news’.
• The cicadas revel in the ‘sizzling’ heat. They ‘din it in’ as they announce and celebrate the heat with ‘continuing praise’. The noise level increases, ‘shrilling’ as the heat intensifies. The humans find the animals’ ‘praise’ of the heat intolerable: it is a ‘note too high to bear’.
• ‘Oven of afternoon’ suggests that man feels trapped by the intense heat. Man’s reaction is to fall silent. The ‘silence of heat’ contrasts with the maddening noise of the cicadas. Man’s only escape is to retreat to ‘shadow, or in shaded rooms’.
• Descriptions like ‘This face is hidden in folded arms’ convey the humans’ desire to hide from the heat which has made them sluggish and appear ‘sick’, shot’ or ‘dead’.
• When the sun is at its hottest and man is at his most vulnerable, the doves flourish. ‘And now’ highlights their contrasting reactions.
• The sound of the doves, described in water imagery, is cooling and soothing. ‘Bubbling’ emphasises this coolness. The use of ‘colloquies’ conveys a sense of harmonised sounds.
• ‘Silk heads’ suggests that the doves are unruffled, unlike man, who is adversely affected. The doves relish the intensity of the heat – their ‘heads are never still’.
• The doves’ ‘formulae’ state that man does not belong in Africa.
• The ‘secret tents of leaves’ indicate that the animals use the natural canopy of the leaves, while man tries to block out the sun with shades.
• The speaker’s tone is critical of and unsympathetic toward man, yet admiring of the animals.
• The concluding line states that man is an intruder and leaves the reader with a positive image of Africa, in contrast to the disparaging image of man. [10]

QUESTION 2: PRESCRIBED POETRY – CONTEXTUAL
ON THE MOVE – THOM GUNN
2.1 The word, ‘throws’ conveys the suddenness with which the bikers appear (1). It conveys the speed at which they approach, as though the distance has pushed them ahead with great force (1). (2)
2.2 The reference suggests their constant searching. The purpose of the bikers’ behaviour is not yet apparent to them (or anyone else).
Their destination is unclear.
[Award 2 marks for two ideas.] (2)
2.3 The jackets contribute to the masculine image of the bikers. The jackets are part of their ‘donned’ uniform, singling them out as belonging to an exclusive clique, reinforcing their group identity. The dust is an indication that they are hardy long-distance travellers and survivors. The dust is compared to an award: it is a sign of their achievement. There is also something to be admired about them – the speaker envies their freedom to go wherever they wish. Alternatively, the speaker could be ironically commenting on the purposelessness of their strivings.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if the candidate discusses the appropriateness of the image.] (3)
2.4 The speaker’s tone is critical/cynical/ironic. His attitude is that people are intruders who want to assert their dominance over the natural world. People have already disturbed the harmony of nature, as described in the first stanza. The speaker is critical of their presumption of superiority in expecting nature to submit to their desires.
[Award 1 mark for tone and 2 marks for discussion.] (3) [10]

QUESTION 3: PRESCRIBED POETRY – CONTEXTUAL
OLD FOLKS LAUGH – MAYA ANGELOU
3.1 ‘Simpering’ means to smile in a self-conscious/affected/silly manner while ‘hollers’ suggests a cheerful abandonment of restraint. This implies that old folk no longer feel themselves restricted by the expectations of society. They laugh in a carefree and joyful manner.
[Award 2 marks only if the contrast is referred to.] (2)
3.2 These lines present a realistic view of the adverse effects of ageing: ‘Wobble’ suggests the instability/unsteadiness of the old folks’ heads and ‘brittle’ implies that their bones are weakening and becoming more fragile. ‘Saliva glistens’ is a reminder that old age is not pretty or dignified. The diction also suggests a lack of control over one’s own body.
[Award 2 marks for two ideas.] (2)
3.3 Line 12 conveys the idea that old folks are themselves free of the cares/worries of the world, but there is also the suggestion that their behaviour can inspire others, who would do well to adopt the same attitude. The poem seems to promote the liberating power of laughter, not only for old folk but for everyone, thus making the line appropriate.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if the candidate discusses the appropriateness of the line.] (3)
3.4 The speaker’s tone is of calm acceptance. The speaker admires the old folk, as the word, ‘generously’ suggests. The speaker respects old folk for their ability to accept what life has done to them and for their big-heartedness. Alternatively, the tone could be wholly or partly ironic and ‘dark’. The word, ‘happening’ suggests that they have been overwhelmed by the events of their lives. All they can hope for is that death will be ‘painless’.
[Award 1 mark for tone and 2 marks for discussion.] (3) [10]

QUESTION 4: PRESCRIBED POETRY – CONTEXTUAL
AN ABANDONED BUNDLE – MBUYISENI OSWALD MTSHALI
4.1 It is indicative of the stifling/oppressive/polluted conditions (1). It is a claustrophobic/suffocating situation from which they are unable to escape (1). (2)
4.2 The impression of the dogs is that they are savage, vicious and predatory (1). The ‘red bandanas’ refer to the blood that covers their bodies as a result of their mutilating of the baby, as well, perhaps, as from fighting one another for survival (1). (2)
4.3 The image is shocking as the ‘scarlet’ that coats the dogs’ tongues is the blood of the mutilated baby. The speaker compares the texture of the tongues to ‘velvet’, a fabric that is plush and luxurious; however, in this case it is associated with savagery and death. The image is appropriate because of the unexpected contrast between the softness of velvet and the harshness of the attack, thus emphasising the horror of the baby’s fate.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if the candidate discusses the appropriateness of the image.] (3)
4.4 The speaker’s tone is angry/bitter/scornful/contemptuous/mocking. The reference to ‘human dung’ reflects the speaker’s attitude toward the moral state of society. The speaker condemns society for not valuing human life and for seeing a human child as disgusting waste.
The Biblical allusion highlights the contrast between society’s attitude to the birth of this baby as opposed to that of Jesus: one is discarded as the lowest kind of garbage, while the other is sacred. The speaker is critical of society’s attitude that a baby is insignificant and can be easily thrown away. The speaker is judgemental of a society that is capable of utterly devaluing human life.
[Award 1 mark for tone and 2 marks for discussion.] (3) [10]

UNSEEN POETRY (COMPULSORY)
QUESTION 5: CONTEXTUAL QUESTION
5.1 The house is described as little more than a shack made from a few sheets of tin attached to a rudimentary frame (1). It is a dwelling for very poor people (1). (2)
5.2 The repetition effectively recreates the monotonous rhythm of the working lives of the very poor. The repetition suggests the back-breaking manual labour in which they are engaged and evokes a sense of the hardship and suffering they endure.
[Award 2 marks for any one idea fully explained.] (2)
5.3 The mood is dejected/bleak/depressing/marked by a sense of hopelessness as indicated by the image of ‘rags’ and their ‘intimate’ (intensely close) relationship to the workers’ living space.
[Award 1 mark for an identification of mood and 2 marks for a discussion.]
[Credit valid alternative interpretations of ‘the intimate landscape’.] (3)
5.4 The poem ends on a note of grim irony as the oppressed worker is presented as being grateful to die, so miserable is his existence. The title, ‘Western Civilization’ is also ironic as the poem is about the barbaric effects of the supposed Western civilization.
[Award 3 marks only if the tone in stanza 6 and the title are fully discussed.] (3) [10]
TOTAL SECTION A: 30

SECTION B: NOVEL
QUESTION 6: ANIMAL FARM – ESSAY

The characters in the novel can be seen as representing particular classes.

• Initially, nearly all the animals are united against Mr Jones and subscribe to the democratic ideals espoused by old Major.
• Even before the rebellion, the pigs take control of the planning of the future of Animal Farm. This automatically creates division among the animals and separates them into a class of leaders and one of followers.
• When Jones is chased off the farm, the pigs quickly forget the principles on which the rebellion is based. Instead of instilling the concept of equality, they hold themselves separate from the other animals.
• After the rebellion, the ordinary animals do the manual work while the pigs become the supervisors.
• The basis of the pigs’ dominance as a class is their superior intelligence, coupled with the stupidity of the other animals. This relegates the animals to a lower position in their society and creates an inequality that contradicts the intention of the revolution.
• An early sign that equality will not be maintained on Animal Farm is the pigs’ laying claim to ‘brain food’, suggesting that this is required in order for them to lead effectively while denying the other animals the same access to resources.
• The self-interest, greed and power of the pigs are threats to democratic principles. The pigs grant themselves additional privileges.
• The status of the dogs is also elevated as they are the protectors of the pigs and the enforcers of the pigs’ dictatorship.
• The pigs’ exploitation of the animals’ labour indicates that the privileged classes can be cruel and treacherous.
• The obedience and submissiveness of the animals allow the pigs to elevate and strengthen their own position within society.
• The maxim, ‘All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others’ implies that there is a division between leaders and followers.

This division is based on the elite’s exploitation of the revolution for their own ends, and the masses’ lacking the intellectual ability to challenge and resist this exploitation.
[Accept valid alternative responses.] [25]

QUESTION 7: ANIMAL FARM – CONTEXTUAL
7.1 The pigs use their superior intelligence to educate themselves and to generate the principles on which the farm is founded. They immediately take on leadership positions and control the flow of information on the farm. They appropriate food for themselves, accord themselves many privileges and realise the advantage of educating certain younger animals. They begin to isolate and eliminate their opponents. They manipulate the animals into working harder and they engage in trade with the humans in order to benefit themselves.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
7.2 Napoleon is described as ‘fierce-looking’, used to getting his own way and generally silent about his plans. Later, he chases Snowball off the farm because Snowball’s vision for the farm is incompatible with his own, more self-serving ideas. He takes control of the farm in order to ensure his privileged position and satisfy his own greed.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
7.3 The animals offer their loyalty to whomever takes charge and provides for their basic needs. They enslave themselves, with little thought for what they are forfeiting. Their unquestioning faith leads to their downfall because they swap one controlling master (Jones) for another (Napoleon), who simply takes advantage of them.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
7.4 Snowball has more integrity and courage than Napoleon. Snowball wants to improve the lives of all the animals on the farm while Napoleon has selfish intentions. Snowball fights fiercely during the Battle of the Cowshed while Napoleon protects himself and then manipulates the animals into believing that he is heroic and Snowball is a traitor.
[Award 3 marks only if irony is discussed.] (3)
7.5 Napoleon realises that he needs to eliminate Snowball as his political rival. This is done by chasing Snowball off the farm and then obliterating Snowball’s good reputation. Snowball poses a threat to Napoleon’s authority and reputation, as he is a more egalitarian leader who wants to share the spoils of the farm with all of its inhabitants.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
7.6 The word is part of Squealer’s propaganda campaign. It is used to create the illusion of equality and that the animals are united and share a common interest. It creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and appeals to the animals’ sense of loyalty. In this way, Squealer is able to gain the animals’ trust and convince them that their livelihood is safe in the hands of the pigs. ‘Comrade’ is used ironically by Squealer as he and the leader pigs do not view the animals as equal; instead, the term is used as part of the system that oppresses the animals.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
7.7 Boxer is a hard, devoted worker whose labour is required in order to make a success of the farm. His physical strength is needed to build the windmill and ensure a successful harvest, while his usually uncritical loyalty to Napoleon is used as an example for the other animals to emulate. He lacks education and generally follows his leader unquestioningly; this allows him to be exploited and oppressed.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only for a critical response.] (3)
7.8 A fairy story is a make-believe story which involves the triumph of good over evil, resulting in a happy ending. A fairy story has stock characters. The language is uncomplicated and the animals in a fairy story are anthropomorphic. The purpose of a fairy story is to communicate a significant idea which is easy to understand. The novel does contain elements of the fairy story as demonstrated by the human-like behaviour of the stereotyped animals in these extracts. Animal Farm is an apparently simple portrayal of revolution and the dangers of dictatorship.
A crucial element of the genre – that of good triumphing over evil – is not realised in this novel, thus making it an inappropriate sub-title. The sub-title is used satirically.
[Award full marks only if the candidate has referred to both the appropriateness and the inappropriateness of the sub-title.] (4) [25]

QUESTION 8: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE – ESSAY

In Pride and Prejudice, Austen presents a society with a generally rigid class hierarchy which can be detrimental to its members.

• Wealthy family connections and property ownership divide groups from one another. Landowners, business folk and professionals who do not own land are members of a privileged class that has wealth but is regarded as socially inferior to those whose positions have been inherited. The most socially exalted sector of society is the aristocratic landed gentry. The moneyed landed gentry do not have to work to earn an income. The Bingleys are wealthier than the Bennets and have higher connections. Hence the Bingleys are permitted to socialise with the likes of Darcy.
• Lady Catherine is poisoned by power. As an ‘old order’ aristocrat, she cannot envisage any infiltration into the aristocracy by someone from a lower class. She is boorish and domineering in defending the rigid class structure. She even recommends how others ought to live. She sees herself as upholding the tenets of social norms and makes judgments on how families are raised.
• Darcy is poisoned by his own self-esteem. Born into an aristocratic family, he upholds the ideology of the separation of classes. His haughty manner is evident in his interference in the Jane-Bingley relationship, which is based on his belief in the unsuitability of the Bennet family.
• In families without sons, the estate is entailed to male relatives. Thus marriage becomes the chief means for women to secure a place in society. Well-born women are not permitted to work and their only means of securing a future is to marry well. Eligible young men are therefore pursued by young women and their mothers. Those fortunate enough to marry into a higher class are assured of a comfortable life.
• Wickham aspires to elevate his status; hence his single-minded pursuit of women with money.
• Mr Collins ingratiates himself with people like Lady Catherine, Darcy and the Bingleys to promote his social standing. He regularly mentions his association with Lady Catherine in the hope that he will be categorised as a man of consequence.
• The manner in which various characters try to move up the social ladder is toxic.
  [Accept valid alternative responses.] [25]

QUESTION 9: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE – CONTEXTUAL
9.1 The focus of this extract is on the Netherfield Ball, which is an opportunity for the young women to showcase themselves. In Austen’s patriarchal society, single women of the privileged classes have no hope of adequately supporting themselves. It is important for them to give a good account of themselves at every opportunity so as to attract suitable bachelors. Mr Bingley is a highly eligible bachelor and his arrival is met with a great deal of speculation by mothers in particular.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
9.2 The Bingley sisters, while initially delighted at the prospect of Jane as a suitable acquaintance, soon change their attitude after observing the Bennet family. They regard Mrs Bennet as vulgar and are surprised by the freedom the Bennet girls generally enjoy. They also realise that the Bennets are of a lower status and feel that a union between Jane and their brother would not be advisable.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if the reason for the change in attitude is referred to.] (3)
9.3 Lydia’s behaviour at the ball reflects her general self-absorption; she lacks concern for social norms and has no understanding of appropriate behaviour. The focus of her evening is to attract and enjoy the company of young men. Later, she elopes with Wickham and is particularly excited by the prospect of marriage. Her marriage, unfortunately, does not bring her the status and love she has envisioned.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
9.4 Mr Bennet has a detached attitude toward his wife’s elaborate plans to get his daughters noticed by Mr Bingley. He is therefore hoping to hear that her plans have failed because it is typical of his attitude of not wanting any interruptions to the serenity of his life. He is an absent member of the family, choosing not to take any decisions about any matter. His approach is to leave family affairs to Mrs Bennet. He prefers not to make decisions and often needs to be cajoled into taking a stance.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if reference is made to the novel as a whole.] (3)
9.5 Darcy visits Rosings in the hope of meeting Elizabeth, with whom he has fallen in love. He makes regular unannounced visits to the Parsonage where Elizabeth is a guest of the Collinses. He deliberately meets Elizabeth in the park during her regular walks.
The strength of Darcy’s feelings for Elizabeth is apparent in his abnormal behaviour: he is not at all his usual confidently aloof self.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
9.6 Austen satirises the ingratiating Mr Collins. He yearns to become a member of upper-crust society and his action in waylaying the gentlemen is typical of his desire to make a good impression. Austen satirises his proposal to Elizabeth because it reflects his arrogance, conceit and obsession with Lady Catherine. His vanity does not allow him to see Elizabeth’s rejection for what it is. The letter to Mr Bennet after Lydia’s elopement is apparently intended to convey his condolences, but, instead, he attacks not only Lydia, but also Mr Bennet (for his poor parenting).
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if the candidate has referred to satire and to the novel as a whole.] (3)
9.7 Unlike the majority of women in Elizabeth’s society, she is not influenced by relative social rank. Money and status do not impress her and this in part accounts for her forthright manner in her dealings with members of the upper class. She is not intimidated by Lady Catherine; in fact, she is rather amused by her. At the Ball, she is content with remaining alone. She does not set out to snare a moneyed husband, as do other women of her society. Elizabeth rejects Darcy’s proposal, thereby asserting her independence and her belief that she should marry for love, not money and status.
[Award 3 marks only if the candidate provides a critical discussion and refers to the novel as a whole.] (3)
9.8 The arrogantly aristocratic Lady Catherine and the bumbling and annoying upper middle class Mrs Bennet are superficially very different. However, they are both fiercely protective of their families. Both are determined to secure suitable marriages for their daughters. In Extract A, Mrs Bennet’s social ambition for her daughters is obvious in her excitement at the prospect of a marriage between Jane and Bingley. Such a union would reflect on her own success as a mother and automatically raise her status. Lady Catherine says that Darcy is reluctant to leave, but she is actually implying that he is soon to become her son-in-law.
Both women like to impose their wills. When thwarted they are prone to temper tantrums. They use others to feed their own ambitions/egos. Mrs Bennet is conniving in her attempt to ensure the success of the Jane-Bingley relationship by ensuring that Jane remain in the Bingley household when she takes ill. Lady Catherine confronts and attempts to intimidate Elizabeth into breaking ties with Darcy. Both women are self-involved and demand attention.
Mrs Bennet takes to her bed when she is unhappy and Lady Catherine breaks ties with Darcy after his marriage.
Both women are critical of others if they do not conform to their ambitions.
[Award full marks only if the candidate has referred to both characters and has made reference to the novel as a whole.] (4) [25]
English Home Language/P2 15 DBE/Feb.–Mar. 2016

QUESTION 10: THE GREAT GATSBY – ESSAY

• The American Dream is based on the assumption that any person, irrespective of origin, could succeed through determination and hard work. The original settlers saw America as a land of opportunity where they could escape from the rigid European class system which prevented them from attaining their goals of success. Thus the division of society into classes – ‘old money’, ‘new money’ and ‘no money’ – as portrayed in the novel is a contradiction of the American Dream, which promises equality.
• The Buchanans represent ‘old money’. They have inherited their wealth. Their lives are spent in the aimless pursuit of pleasure. This sybaritic lifestyle contradicts the ideals of the American Dream, which espouse achieving success through one’s own efforts.
• As a young man of the working class, Gatsby endeavoured to achieve success through his own efforts. He believed in the ideal of the American Dream. He seizes every opportunity to improve himself.
• Later, however, wealth alone is not enough for him. His ultimate goal is to win Daisy and gain acceptance in her world. Although he aspires to belong to the ‘old-money’ class, he will never be accepted. He is initially accepted into Daisy’s home and life because he is an army officer.
• Gatsby represents ‘new money’. ‘Old money’ scorns and rejects the nouveau riche.
• Even though he tries to buy social acceptance with illegally acquired wealth and showing it off ostentatiously, he will never be welcome in the world of ‘old money’.
• The Wilsons represent the impoverished class trapped in the valley of ashes. They are victims of a society where success is measured by wealth. For them, the American Dream is merely an illusion.
• Myrtle is deluded in thinking that her affair with Tom will help her to escape her class. She is merely one of the lower-class women of whom Tom has taken advantage.
• No matter how hard George Wilson works to provide Myrtle with the lifestyle she desires, he is doomed to failure.
• Fitzgerald points out that the American Dream’s concept of equality is not sustainable in a world obsessed with wealth and class.
  [Accept valid alternative responses.] [25]

QUESTION 11: THE GREAT GATSBY – CONTEXTUAL
11.1 Gatsby knows that Nick might be suspicious of him as they have only recently met and thus may not be willing to accede to his request to arrange a meeting with Daisy. He is also not sure whether Nick will be offended by his request, as Daisy is married. However, he is aware of the relationship between Nick and Jordan and he probably feels that Jordan would be in a better position to persuade Nick. He also knows of the friendship between Jordan and Daisy, and that Jordan might be able to get Nick’s co-operation if he feels that it would be to Daisy’s benefit.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
11.2 No. Here Gatsby portrays Jordan as a person of integrity and honesty. He seems to assume that her being ‘a great sportswoman’ means that she upholds the standards of good sportsmanship. However, Jordan is dishonest. She is willing to do anything to win and has been suspected of cheating in a golf tournament. She is an opportunist who will do whatever she must to be successful in her world.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
11.3 In his first direct contact with Gatsby, Nick is attracted by his extraordinary smile, which seems to emphasise his optimism and vitality. It is this smile that sets Gatsby apart and wins Nick’s approval and admiration.
In this extract, Nick seems to have developed a somewhat ambivalent attitude toward Gatsby. His admiration for and attraction to Gatsby are tinged with annoyance and criticism of his secrecy, as well as his intrusion into Nick and Jordan’s relationship. He is determined not to allow himself to be seduced and manipulated by Gatsby’s smile on this occasion.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
11.4 Meyer Wolfshiem’s inclusion in the novel highlights the corruption of the American Dream. He represents the shady underworld of American society. His fixing of the 1919 World’s Series clearly illustrates how crime and corruption are responsible for tarnishing the American Dream and its symbols. His ruthlessness is evident in his wearing human molars as cufflinks. His name is illustrative of his predatory nature. Later in the novel, he proudly proclaims to Nick that he ‘made’ Gatsby. This clearly illustrates that Wolfshiem not only contributes to the corruption of the American Dream, but is also instrumental in the corruption of Gatsby’s personal dream.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
11.5 Daisy’s words indicate the lack of purpose of members of the upper class, as well as their lack of substance. They drift aimlessly and do not use their time productively. Their only desire is to retain their privilege. They lead frivolous lives, and have little or no concept of the reality of other people’s lives.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
11.6 Throughout the novel, Fitzgerald uses the weather as a device to reflect significant events. In this extract, the oppressive heat reflects the tension that will lead to the showdown between Tom and Gatsby. When Gatsby and Daisy reunite, it is raining, reflecting Gatsby’s insecurity and gloomy mood. The rain continues through the strained meeting. However, the rain suggests a cleansing and/or revitalising effect which enables the reawakening of their relationship. Once they overcome the awkwardness of their strained meeting, the sun comes out, conveying their radiant happiness. The resumption of the rain indicates that their happiness will be short-lived. On the day that Gatsby dies, the change in the weather, signalling the beginning of autumn, foreshadows his death.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.]
[Award 3 marks only if the candidate refers to the novel as a whole.] (3)
11.7 It is ironic that Gatsby feels that it would be discourteous to inform Tom in his own house that Daisy loves him and that he is taking her away from Tom. However, he has made elaborate plans over the past five years to win Daisy, a married woman. He has also arranged an illicit meeting with her at Nick’s house and they have since begun an affair.
[Award 3 marks only if irony is discussed.] (3)
11.8 In Extract A, Gatsby is filled with hope for the future. His plan for reuniting with Daisy seems to be on the verge of realisation. He has gone to great lengths to win Daisy – gaining enormous wealth in a very short time so that he could buy the mansion across the bay. He throws lavish parties in the hope that Daisy would attend one, and now fate seems to be on his side with Nick, Daisy’s cousin, as his neighbour.
In Extract B, Gatsby thinks he has achieved his dream of winning Daisy. However, Daisy’s reaction suggests that his dream is crumbling (‘her voice struggled on through the heat’) and she feels confused. Her lack of plans for the future indicates that she does not envisage a life with Gatsby and does not share his optimism. Gatsby is determined that she tell Tom that she is leaving him and that she has never loved him. It is evident that all his hopes are based on illusion; that his conception of Daisy is itself an illusion. Once Daisy realises the truth about Gatsby’s criminal involvement, she is not prepared to relinquish her life of privilege and security with Tom.
[Award 4 marks only if the candidate refers to both extracts and to the novel as a whole.] (4) [25]
TOTAL SECTION B: 25

SECTION C: DRAMA
QUESTION 12: OTHELLO – ESSAY

A misunderstanding of characters’ true natures and intentions, as well as a misinterpretation of events and actions, contributes to the tragedy of Othello. However, Iago, who creates the misunderstanding, is the exception.

• Brabantio’s misunderstanding of Othello’s reason for marrying Desdemona is driven by his bigotry. He misconstrues the depth of their love and assumes that Othello is bewitched by her. This contributes to the tragedy: he breaks ties with Desdemona and dies of a broken heart.
• Brabantio fails to understand Desdemona’s character. He thinks she is timid and submissive. He is not prepared for her defiance.
• Characters are unaware of Iago’s true nature, regarding him as honest and loyal. They misunderstand his actual intentions. His manipulative nature is so well concealed that not even Emilia has the vaguest notion of his plans. His skilful manipulations win the confidence of everyone, while he carefully plots their destruction. Emilia has no clue about the extent of Iago’s evil until the evidence becomes overwhelming.
• Roderigo misinterprets Iago’s motives and is unaware that he is being deceived. On more than one occasion he realises that he has been exploited but is convinced otherwise by Iago.
• Cassio is deluded into thinking that Iago is honest. His following of Iago’s advice contributes to the tragedy.
• Because of his insecurities, Othello fails to trust Desdemona’s loyalty. Iago’s constant innuendo lays the foundation for Othello’s misreading of the relationship between Desdemona and Cassio.
• Othello is easily convinced of his wife’s alleged affair when Iago orchestrates Othello’s eavesdropping on the conversation between Iago and Cassio. Othello’s misinterpretation results in Desdemona’s murder.
• Cassio’s possession of the handkerchief so cleverly obtained by Iago, convinces Othello of his wife’s infidelity.
• Othello’s belief in Iago clouds his mind to such an extent that he loses focus on the true nature of the woman he married.
• Desdemona misinterprets the change in Othello.
• In general, decent people cannot grasp how much evil there is around them. If one has an emotional need not to see the truth, one tends not to: e.g. Emilia can have valid suspicions about Othello’s attitude whereas Desdemona finds it difficult to credit such possibilities.
  [Accept valid alternative responses.] [25]

QUESTION 13: OTHELLO – CONTEXTUAL
13.1 Roderigo is serving his own interests as he is infatuated with Desdemona. He hopes that Brabantio will follow his directions and find Othello and Desdemona together, have the marriage annulled, and look upon him with favour.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas.] (3)
13.2 Iago hopes that the warning will help to convince Othello of his (Iago’s) loyalty. Iago also hopes to undermine Othello’s happiness. He possibly hopes that Othello will react in a way that disgraces him.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
13.3 ‘Iniquity’ denotes wickedness/evil-mindedness and for Iago to suggest that he lacks this quality is ironic as he plots against Cassio and Othello, uses Roderigo and Emilia, and is responsible for the tragic deaths of Othello, Desdemona, Roderigo and Emilia. His use of the word reflects his hypocritical nature.
[Award 3 marks only if irony is discussed and reference is made to the play as a whole.] (3)
13.4 The reference to the law is a reminder that Venice is an organised, civilised state, renowned for its refined behaviour. It is an orderly, law-abiding society associated with reason and stability, while Cyprus is regarded as a hostile, barbaric military outpost situated on the edge of Venetian territory. In a less law-abiding place such as Cyprus, it is easier for Iago to manipulate Othello. With the move from Venice to Cyprus, Othello’s behaviour becomes less controlled and more irrational. It is in Cyprus that Othello descends into the jealous paranoia that leads to his downfall.
AND/OR
Cyprus is situated between Venice and the Turks. Venice represents civilised order and rational law. The Turks represent the forces of darkness and chaos. The main action takes place on Cyprus, a site of conflict between ‘good’ and ‘evil’. On Cyprus, Othello is similarly caught between these opposing forces/aspects of the human condition.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
13.5 A viper is deadly and associated with wickedness and poison. This is an appropriate word to describe Iago. He has been identified as the instigator of the plot against Othello and as Emilia’s murderer. He has duped all the characters, including his wife, into participating in his evil plans and has trapped them all in a web of lies and deceit.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
13.6 Othello regards Iago as the devil incarnate when he says: ‘I look down towards his feet’ as if to imply Iago should have the cloven hoofs of the devil. Iago’s actions are so diabolical that only the devil is capable of such malice. This comparison conveys Othello’s attitude of bitterness/anger/loathing toward Iago.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
13.7 The question hinges on whether one regards the word ‘honourable’ as valid. The audience might feel either sympathy for Othello or revulsion that he tries to dignify murder.
One can see Othello as ‘honourable’ on the grounds that he earnestly believed he was doing the noble thing in killing Desdemona, thereby saving men from becoming victims of infidelity. He sees himself as merely dispensing justice as he would in the military. Othello’s sincerity heightens the empathy/pity/sympathy that the audience might feel for him.
OR
One can reject Othello’s claim to having acted honourably on the ground that he sees himself as judge, jury and executioner. The audience might be horrified that Othello attempts to justify his murderous behaviour by appealing to honour and suggesting that it was an act of justice.
[Accept mixed responses.]
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
13.8 Candidates may argue that irrationality is so crucially important that rational behaviour can be seen as merely a foil serving to highlight the central focus on irrationality.
Yes.
In the course of the play, Iago drives Othello to the point of madness, culminating in the senseless murder of Desdemona and his irrational justification of his murderous actions. Othello’s treatment of Desdemona is unforgiveable. He has lost control.
Iago holds an illogical grudge against Othello for any slight, no matter how imaginary: the alleged affair with Emilia and Cassio’s promotion. In essence, he obsessively resents anyone whose ‘daily beauty … makes [him] ugly’.
Brabantio’s accusations against Othello stem from his irrational prejudices.
OR
No.
Although irrationality is significant, the play is not about irrationality as such, because the nature and importance of reasonable behaviour is also stressed. One might point to the very efficient functioning of the Senate, Othello’s own rational responses to situations earlier in the play: his calm reaction during the Senate meeting; his appropriate response to Brabantio’s accusations.
[Accept mixed responses.]
[Award 4 marks only if the candidate has referred to the play as a whole.] (4) [25]
English Home Language/P2 21 DBE/Feb.–Mar. 2016

QUESTION 14: THE CRUCIBLE – ESSAY

Ignorance and superstition result in paranoia, hysteria and panic. This is fuelled by the Puritans’ ideas of conformity and religious fanaticism.

• Hale is confident of his ‘scientific’ knowledge of witchcraft. He is oblivious of people’s exploitation of the situation. The ignorant, superstitious villagers believe in his scientific ability to detect witchcraft.
• The villagers’ ignorance means that Tituba is easily accepted as a witch.
• Parris wants Salem to remain ignorant of Abigail and his daughter’s activities in order to protect his reputation. He exploits the superstition surrounding witchcraft to affirm his status in Salem and to exact revenge on Proctor. His actions contribute to the tragedy.
• The judges are initially unaware of the ulterior motives of people and allow them to exploit the situation to their own advantage, resulting in the executions of the innocent.
• Hathorne is an ignorant judge who denies any new developments regarding witchcraft. He and Danforth contribute to the tragedy of injustice. The court assumes guilt without reviewing the evidence. People like John Proctor, Giles Corey and Rebecca Nurse are unjustly executed because the judges are too proud to admit that they have erred. Rebecca’s execution is based solely on the selfish accusation by the Putnams, who also exploit the ignorance and superstition of the villagers.
• Superstition and ignorance allow for the accused to show repentance by accusing others.
• Proctor is regarded as a morally upright man, yet the ignorance of the community is one of the factors that cause them to support Abigail instead.
• Abigail uses people’s superstitions to accuse Elizabeth of witchcraft. Elizabeth is known to be morally upright and honest, yet the discovery of a ‘poppet’ is enough to condemn her. Elizabeth is ignorant of Proctor’s confession and lies to save him. This leads to his arrest and unjust execution.
• The girls’ dancing in the woods is supported by Mrs Putnam, who encourages her own daughter to participate. She is initially ignorant of the tragedy that will result.
  [Candidates might argue that it is not only ignorance and superstition which lead to the tragedy; instead, it is the lies of Abigail and the other girls.]
  [Accept mixed and/or alternative responses.] [25]

QUESTION 15: THE CRUCIBLE – CONTEXTUAL
15.1.1 Proctor is frustrated that the villagers have allowed the situation to grow out of proportion and have even brought in Hale, a supposed expert on witchcraft. Rebecca is concerned that Proctor’s outburst will cause trouble. She wants to avoid the unpleasantness of a confrontation. She refers to the villagers’ having fought in the past. Rebecca is concerned that there will be further dissent in Salem.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
15.1.2 Rebecca Nurse is revered in Salem. She is the voice of reason in that community. She is a moral icon and even Hale refers to her renown, which has spread to other villages.
[Consider alternative valid responses.]
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
15.2 Proctor’s attitude is that the village is and should be democratic and that status and influence ought not to be determined by landownership or wealth in general. Proctor is the embodiment of the attitude of the play as a whole: that freedom and respect for the individual are paramount.
Proctor points out that people are supposed to be equal; that wealth does not determine or influence one’s power in Salem. Proctor reminds Putnam that he is not more important than anyone else, therefore he cannot demand or use his wealth and status to exploit others.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
15.3 The reference to ‘hellfire and bloody damnation’ emphasises the harsh nature of Salem’s belief system. State and Church are synonymous. Justice in Salem is preoccupied with punishment and retribution. Justice in Salem society is based on a strict religious code where pleasure is regarded as a sin. The threat of damnation hangs over citizens for the slightest transgression.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
15.4 The reference is inaccurate/inappropriate. There is nothing demure about Abigail. Her solemn demeanour is hypocritical and is deliberately adopted to manipulate the villagers and the judges. Abigail intimidates others. She is not a sober or serious girl. She has had an affair with Proctor. She has been dancing naked in the wood and has even tried to cast a spell to ensure Elizabeth’s death. She is self-centred and is wreaking havoc in Salem.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
English Home Language/P2 23 DBE/Feb.–Mar. 2016
15.5 Danforth is shocked by Abigail’s laughing during prayer, but when Giles reminds Danforth that Abigail’s accusations result in the execution of people, he instructs Giles to be silent. Danforth is not even prepared to entertain Giles’s accusations. Danforth focuses on Abigail’s childlike, seemingly innocent appearance and not on the seriousness of Giles’s accusation because he does not wish Abigail to be discredited as it will reflect badly on him. It is as though the gravity of taking a human life is of no consequence.
OR
It is ironic that Danforth is a judge and is supposed to remain objective, yet he does not afford people the opportunity to speak out. Danforth is distracted by inconsequential issues instead of focusing on the severity of Giles’s accusation. He is not prepared to listen to reason. Instead, he is determined to pursue his own interpretation of events. He is too bent on maintaining the power of his position and the reverence of the citizens.
[Award 3 marks only if irony is discussed.](3)
15.6 The audience is sympathetic toward Mary’s plight. She is in the court only because of Proctor’s insistence. Mary is aware of the need to do the right thing, yet she is intimidated by Abigail. She is not strong enough to stand up to Abigail, even though she badly wants to help Elizabeth. She appeals to Proctor, aligning herself with the characters with whom the audience feels sympathy.
OR
The audience might not be sympathetic toward Mary because she has brought this situation upon herself. She should have spoken out long ago instead of enjoying the power the trials have afforded her. She has even become defiant and insolent. She ought to have more courage/integrity so as to defy Abigail.
[Award 3 marks for three ideas or 3 marks for two ideas well discussed.] (3)
15.7 The irrational behaviour is a manifestation of evil and is central to the play. However, its antithesis is equally central. The play as a whole is a struggle between destructive irrationality and notions of moral and social order and justice, rooted in reason/rationality.
Yes.
The reaction of the villagers to the girls’ dancing in the forest is irrational as they immediately link the girls’ behaviour to ‘unnatural causes’. The Putnams have irrationally connected the deaths of their children to witchcraft and their unreasonable behaviour fuels the paranoia. The girls play to these illogical assumptions and get caught up in the hysteria of the witch hunt. Danforth does not want to admit that the court’s focus is misguided. Accusations are accepted without any evidence being demanded by the villagers or the court. It is illogical to expect the accused to prove their innocence while the accuser is automatically believed.
OR
No.
Both Proctor and Rebecca Nurse think logically and attempt to highlight the reality of the situation. They are the voices of reason in the village, but they are drowned out by the hysteria created by the girls. Proctor consistently draws the attention of the court to the fact that the girls are lying to further their own selfish motives. As for Rebecca, she will not compromise with untruth.
[Accept mixed responses.]
[Credit valid alternative responses.]
[Award 4 marks only if the candidate has referred to the play as a whole.] (4) [25]
TOTAL SECTION C: 25
GRAND TOTAL: 80

SECTION A: Assessment rubric for literary essay: Poetry (10 marks)

NOTE: If a candidate has ignored the content completely and written a creative response instead, award a 0 mark for both Content and Structure and Language.

SECTION B AND C: Assessment rubric for literary essay: Novel and Drama (25 Marks)

NOTE: If a candidate has ignored the content completely and written a creative response instead, award a 0 mark for both Content and Structure and Language.
There must not be more than two categories’ variation between the Structure and Language mark and the Content mark.