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Metro North Education District

COMMON EXAMINATION

CIRCUITS 1, 3, 7

NATIONAL SENIOR CERTIFICATEENGLISH HOME LANGUAGE

PAPER 2MEMORANDUMSEPTEMBER 2014

TIME: 2 HOURS

MARKS: 80 This memorandum consists of 22 pages

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014

SECTION A: POETRYPRESCRIBED

QUESTION 1: ESSAY – LONDON

In an essay of approximately 250 – 300 words (about ONE page), discuss the poet’s attitude towards London. Include how the tone is conveyed and also how the diction is used to convey the emotions.

The poet has a negative attitude with a sense of irritation towards London. It seems as if there is a sense of disbelief in the hyperbolic way he describes the

atmosphere in London. There is so much sadness brought across in all the stanzas in the poem. The serious tone is conveyed in the ordered and structured format of the poem. There is a set rhyme scheme and this also adds to how cold he is towards

London as there is no sense of love or passion evident like in a praise poem where poetic licence is used for expressions of admiration.

The use of repetition (“marks” and “every”) shows how the sadness and despair seems to be everywhere he looks and is used for exaggeration.

The use of the w-sound in stanza adds to the despair as it slows down the pace and brings across a feeling of woe.

Apostrophe is used in “Man” and “Infants” which shows the generalized sadness in London and how society has enslaved so many minds in the city.

Humankind is being criticised for the way in which people are living. The idea of people crying as expressed in stanza 2 adds to the negative attitude

that the poet has towards London. “The mind-forg’d manacles” shows how people have become entrapped by their

minds and way of thinking. “blackening Church” is used to express how the poet feels about how the

change has changed its principles and is not assisting where it should. The church is not a source of spiritual enlightenment anymore, it has become a place of darkness that people use for personal gain.

“appalls” shows his deep disgust in the manner in which the church is acting. “hapless Soldier” is used because the soldier does not choose to die, he feels

obligated to protect his country/city. The word “Palace” shows that the ordinary people have to suffer to ensure the

safety and prosperity of the wealthy and those in power. The fact that stanza 4 starts with the word “But” shows a change. The poet’s attitude of utter disgust is expressed in this stanza. “youthful Harlot” shows that she is young and has no choice but to sell herself to

earn a living.

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Use the following ideas, among others, as a guide to marking this question. Responses might differ, depending on the candidate's sensitivity to and understanding of the poem, and the poet's intention.

• Refer to the rubric for marking the poetry essay question.


The word “curse” refers to something bad that she has said to the baby and to a possible sexually transmitted disease.

The baby cannot fend for itself and needs to be cared for. The words “blights” and “plagues” are harsh which emphasises the poet’s

disgust at the situation. “the Marriage hearse” is a phrase used because marriages are ended (dead)

because of prostitution and also because sexually transmitted diseases are transferred within the marriages and this would lead to death of one or both partners.

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QUESTION 2: CONTEXTUAL QUESTION

SONNET 30: WHEN TO THE SESSIONS OF SWEET SILENT THOUGHT

2.1 Which two things are the speaker saddened about? (2) He mourns people who have died / lost loved ones / things he no longer Experiences. (Any two)

2.2 What form of poem is this? Explain how you know this. (2) Elizabethan / Shakespearean sonnet. It has three quatrains and a rhyming couplet and the rhyme scheme is abab cdcd efef gg.

2.3 Discuss how the speaker brings across the message that one’s thoughts affect one’s emotions/moods. (3) The repetition of “woe/woes” and “moan/moans” is noteworthy. One regrets wasting time and also regrets not achieving what you are expected to achieve. The memories friends he has lost seem particularly sad. Mourning can affect one’s moods much later in life when there is a constant reminder of those that one has lost.

2.4 The sense of sadness changes towards the end of the poem. By referring to the diction used, explain why and how it changes. (3) The sense of sadness seems to disappear at the end when he thinks of his friend and loved one. The use of the word “But” in the couplet, shows a change of attitude. The use of the word “dear” to describe his friend, shows a deep adoration and this makes him happy. “All losses are restored” shows that he moves away from the regrets of the past and wants to focus on the present and the positive aspects in his life.

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OLD FOLKS LAUGH

3.1 Using your own words, describe what old people have finished doing in lines 1 to 6, according to the speaker. (2) Old people have stopped pretending in order to impress others. They have finished being fake and realise that they are supposed to be the way that they are now.

3.2 Comment on the effectiveness of the figure of speech used in “allow their bellies to jiggle like slow // tambourines.” (2) The simile is effective because tambourines are shaken and used for joyous celebrations and the comparison to the stomachs of the old people is appropriate because they laugh when they are joyous.

3.3 The poet has chosen to use colloquialisms such as “folk” and “holler”. Critically discuss whether this is appropriate and relate your response to the main theme of the poem. (3) The main theme of the poem is that old people have made peace with everything that has happened in their lives. Appropriate – old people have reached the stage of their lives where formalities are not an issue. Colloquialisms still include a degree of respect so it shows how old people are comfortable everyday and that people still respect them in life.

OR Inappropriate – old people deserve a greater degree of respect when they are addressed or being referred. The youth are not on the same level as the old people and they should not react in a too familiar manner with the older generation.

3.4 Do you think this is an accurate portrayal of some old people? Explain your answer by referring to specific descriptors used in the poem. (3) Yes – some old people do enjoy life to its fullest and do not care about what others think of them. “their bellies to jiggle” – when some old people laugh they shake uncontrollably and “When old folks laugh, they free the world” – their laughter is infectious and all other issues seem trivial. “brittle necks” – the bones of old people become brittle. “their laps // are filled with memories” – old people tell the best stories and offer comfort to the young people.

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AUTUMN

4.1 Describe how the speaker feels about autumn and motivate your response by quoting from the poem. (2) The poet has a deep love for autumn. “I love to see, when leaves depart”

4.2 Comment on the effectiveness of the metaphor used in “Already now the clanging chains // Of geese...” (2) The metaphor is effective because chains make a loud sound and geese do as well. Also, the formation of the geese in the sky resembles a chain (a sense of being interlinked) and the geese make these loud sounds while flying in their “chain”.

4.3.1 Choose the correct statement to complete the following: The pattern in the poem helps to convey a sense of

A – calm and order and certaintyB – growing breathless excitementC – sadness and frustration (1)

B – growing breathless excitement

4.3.2 Explain your response in 4.3.1. (2) Each stanza starts with an almost ordinary interpretation of autumn and ends with how exceptional autumn is and how we need autumn in order to enjoy the finer things in life. The final stanza shows how autumn brings people together and that is what people enjoy, spending time with loved ones.

4.4 Discuss how stanza 4 critically relates to the main theme of the poem. (3) The main theme is how something positive emerges from the negative. The dead wood removed from the vines and olive trees will be used to make huge fires. In front of these warm fires people can enjoy the fruits of summer – like the wine and olive oil – in great comfort and with company.

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QUESTION 5:

5.1.1) The river is personified in stanza 1 (‘The women troop…of sickly plants’). Identify and explain at least one image to show what your view of the river is.

Candidates should identify the personification and then select at least one image and discuss how it shapes their view of the river.The river is personified as a ruler- at times benign, at time tyrannical. This senseof the river’s power is suggested by the local inhabitants being described as‘a subject people’.

Candidates may choose numerous images of the river to support their responses. They need to engagein active analysis, i.e. identify the image/s and exploreand explain its/their link to the view of the river constructed by the poet. (3)

1 mark for identification + 2 for explanation.

5.1.2) Examine stanza 2( ‘Then one day…bend and vanish’). Discuss the effect of the contrast in the stanza. (4)

Candidates need to identify the contrast in stanza 2 and discuss the effect of this contrast.A contrast is affected between the lifestyles of the canoeists and thosewho live near the river.Candidates need to explore the first 4 lines of the stanza in particular. The poet’s use of imagery and diction convey a sense of sophisticationof the canoeists [‘six high-techs racing canoes’] as opposed to the lack ofsophistication of those who live there [‘grinding peasant existence’]. 2 + 2

5.1.3) Consider lines 21-23(‘Is it any wonder…at the ready?’). Do you think this is an effective way of concluding the poem? Provide a detailed explanation.. (3)

Some candidates may wish to explore the contrast here between the levity and

flippancy of the canoeists as opposed to the fact that the river is the lifeblood ofthe local inhabitants and hence, treated with great respect and seriousness. This is a 3-mark question that requires active, critical analysis. -The crux of thisquestion is an understanding of the continuation of the contrast effected by the poet in stanza 2 between the lives of the local inhabitants, for whom the river is their lifeblood, and the canoeists, who behave as if they have ownership of the river. The poet wishes us to see the anger of the local inhabitants, conveyed through the rhetorical question.Treat each response on merit, but be guided by the candidate’s ability to substantiate through an active engagement with the text. Candidates could explore numerous possibilities here, but should link their

responses to an understanding of the poem as a whole. This is a 3-mark question that requires active, critical analysis.

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014TOTAL FOR SECTION A: 30 MARKS

SECTION B: MEMORANDUM – ANIMAL FARM by George OrwellQUESTION 6 – Essay

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men (animals)do nothing." (Edmund Burke). So much of the history of the struggle between good and evil can be explained by this quotation.

Critically discuss to what extent the observation held in the above quotation holds true for the animals on Animal Farm

Here is the basis for answering this essay. Use the following as a guide to marking this question. Responses might differ, depending on the candidate’s sensitivity to and understanding of the novel. Allow for answers that are different, original and show evidence of critical thought and interpretation. The candidate’s response must be judged on merit. Responses which provide apt references to the novel, must.be credited. Refer to the rubric to assess the candidate’s response.

The animals of Animal Farm resort to rebellion when Jones and his men forget to feed them.

They take over the running of the farm. At this stage Jones and his men, who are viewed as the enemy, the ‘evil’

ones, are forced off the farm. At the beginning all the animals were united and took a stand against

what they viewed as abuse. The ‘evil’ commences when the pigs systematically plot and plan to

dominate the running of the farm. Their consumption of the milk and apples is their first step to total

domination. The animals work tirelessly to make the farm a success – Boxer, the

strongest of the strongest of the animals, eventually injures himself inthe pursuit of the success of Animal Farm.

The animals are gullible and easily influenced by Squealer, whoconvinces them of Jones return if the pigs are not granted certainprivileges.

The animals ‘do nothing’ because they intellectually, are not capable offormulating a plan to combat the domination of the pigs.

They fear the wrath of the dogs – which Napoleon has trained as hissecurity guards.

They fear Joneses return. They believe the farm is doing well even though rations are frugal. The seven commandments are broken, one at a time – to suit the

comfort of the pigs. Squealer’s indoctrination of the sheep in the learning of the new song ‘Four legs good, two legs better’ – indication of the control the pigs have

over them. The ignorance of the farm animals is exploited by Napoleon and the

other pigs. When animals confessed and were killed – animals did nothing.

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In chapter 8 Squealer falls off the ladder whilst changing the commandment : ‘No animal shall drink alcohol…to excess’ – Benjaminsees but says nothing

Benjamin’s silence indicative of his apathetic attitude . He allows the‘evil’ to continue.

The pigs try to convince the animals of Snowball’s disloyalty at the Battleof the Cowshed, and Boxer openly questions this – this results in anattack by the dogs on Boxer.

Fear silences them compounded by their ignorance, gullibility andcontinued hope for the realisation of Old Major’s dream for them.

Evil prevails as a direct result of these factors.

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QUESTION 7 – Contextual Question: Animal Farm 7.1 This passage clearly shows the change that has come about on Animal

Farm, from what the animals had worked for to what it has now become.

Quote a sentence or part of a sentence that captures the ideal farm they had imagined. (1)

‘it had been a society of animals set free from hunger and the whip, all equal, each working according to his capacity, the strong protecting the weak’

7.2 Quote a sentence that clearly shows how this ideal had turned out in the end. (1)

‘… no one dared speak his mind, when fierce, growling dogs roamed everywhere, and when you had to watch your comrades torn to pieces after confessing to shocking crimes ‘.

7.3 Show how the contrast between this reality and the farm that they had hoped for develops one of the novel’s key themes. (3)

The contrast shows how conditions have deteriorated from freedom equality and caring for each other, to fear, savage policing and cruel executions. Themes that can be argued here are: power corrupting itself, greed, the need for strong control.Mark holistically.

7.4 How are we able to determine that it is Clover’s thoughts we are hearing? (3)

‘As Clover looked down ...’ Throughout this paragraph there is reference to how Clover felt and what she thought

7.5 Why do you think Orwell is speaking through Clover here? What effect does it have? Motivate your answer. (4)

He does this to increase the horror of what has happened and to promote the readers’ sympathy for Clover, who is powerless to express her anxieties

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7.6 Describe what precedes this extract which results in Napoleon’s ‘short oration in Boxer’s honour’. (3)After working tirelessly to collect stone for the building of the windmill, Boxer hurts himself and is taken to the knackers. The pigs say that he will be treated by a vet in Willingdon. Although the animals are uneasy about him leaving the farm, the pigs arrange for the van to fetch Boxer while the other animals are working in the fields. That is the last time they see him. / Squealer announces that Boxer died in the hospital still in full support of Animal Farm. Napoleon’s oration comes as a result of Boxer’s death. (3)

7.7 Discuss the irony of the pigs’ intention to have a ‘memorial banquet in Boxer’s honour’. (2)

The demanding and dictatorial nature of the pigs led to Boxer working so hard that it eventually resulted in his demise. /The pigs plan on honouring an animal that they had , indirectly, a hand in leading to his death. / Selling him to the knackers and using the money for whisky. /They didn’t really care about Boxer’s welfare yet they promise a banquet in his honour. (irony must be clear) (2)

7.8 Explain what Boxer’s favourite maxims, as mentioned in the extract, reveal about his character. (2)

He is generous and hard-working to a fault, that he is selfless but also that he is easily influenced, gullible, not very intelligent. (2)

7.9 The animals’ gullibility is clearly evident in this extract as well as in the event which leads to this point.

Do you think this is an accurate statement? Provide adequate substantiation for your answer. (3)

Yes. When Boxer collapses he firmly believes since he is close to retirement age he will be allowed to have a peaceful, pleasant retirement. The animals see the van that arrives to fetch him, ‘Alfred Simmonds, Horse Slaughterer and Glue Boiler’. At first they are horrified and shout to Boxer to get out of the van. He is too weak to escape. / Squealer convinces the animals that the van had once belonged to the knackers and was bought by the vet. The animals foolishly believe him. They believe that Napoleon had paid for expensive medicines for Boxer and that Squealer was at his bedside when he died. Since his death, it seems as if Napoleon wants to honour his memory and are planning an interment and wreath, as well as a banquet. [3] Mark holistically.

7.10 In your view, can the farm at this point in the novel, be regarded a ‘totalitarian state’? Substantiate your response, referring to evidence from chapter 9. (3)

Yes. Napoleon has absolute power over the other animals. He declares the farm a Republic and decides that they need a president. Ironically he is the only candidate running for president. / Animals are murdered / silenced. / He walks upright/ wears Mr Jones’ clothing [ Candidate can show the allegorical significance to the Russian revolution here.]

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014Mark holistically [25]

QUESTION 10: THE GREAT GATSBY – ESSAY QUESTIONThe following is a basis for answering the essay. Use as a guidelineonly. Use the rubric to assess the question.

Daisy is partly to blame. Gatsby is mostly responsible for his death and demise. His single-minded love for Daisy was his downfall – he harboured his

dream and vision to reunite with Daisy for so long and as Nick says ,”at an inconceivable pitch of intensity”.

This dream is what drove him to acquire all his wealth – he was a poor farmer boy and he reinvented himself to be with Daisy and to gain acceptance, but he never gets this from Daisy, nor the celebrated crowd he pandered to.

He wants to repeat the past – this is impossible – and refused to accept that Daisy married Tom and that she once loved Tom and that they have a daughter.

Daisy is married yet he pursues her, thinking it could all be like when they met the first time.

He takes the blame for Myrtle’s death, so Daisy would not have to take the blame and bear the consequences – his love for her blinds him to the consequences for himself – resulting in his death.

Daisy is not a worthy woman – she is shallow and a snob – she is self-centred, careless and incapable of sustained loyalty.

She would never leave Tom and marry Gatsby – he does not belong to the same class as her. It is fine to have an affair with him, but not to marry him, because she also deserves a bit of fun.

She will never leave Tom because she is comfortable with him – it will demand too much effort from her to leave him and she leaves Gatsby hanging when he makes his declaration of love in front of Tom. To Daisy it was never about loving Gatsby – it was about getting what she deserved – her bit of fun - because of all the affairs Tom has.

Daisy ultimately lacks courage – she has a weak character and an inability to stand by her decisions – Gatsby should have chosen a better woman to pin all his hopes and dreams on.

Candidates can also discuss the American Dream and what Gatsby’s American Dream was:

The American Dream is based on an attitude of hope – based on the idea of equality and the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Gatsby’s American Dream = Daisy and acceptance. This dream is doomed to fail because he tries to buy his way into a society and the love of a girl who will never accept him.

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QUESTION 11: THE GREAT GATSBY – CONTEXTUAL QUESTION

11.1 Gatsby fell in love with Daisy when he was in the army, but when he left she married Tom. It has been his intense mission and desire to meet up with Daisy and to fall in love with each other again, marry her and live happily ever after. Just prior to this passage Gatsby meets Daisy again for the first time in 5 years. He takes her to his house to show her his riches –all to impress her. Just after this Daisy and Gatsby start their affair and this proves to be a turning point for Gatsby – his dream becomes reality and he is on his way to fulfil his personal American Dream. (4)

11.2 Gatsby is not a real character but a fictitious persona created to impress, especially Daisy. He told Nick an elaborate story about his wealth and his inheritance to hide the fact that he is a common bootlegger. Being a bootlegger does not fit in with this persona and idea of a wealthy debonair that he has created for himself, and he temporarily forgets this story that he told and tells Nick that he earned his money. (3)

11.3 The people are mostly uninvited, treat his house as a circus grounds and are certainly not celebrated or interesting. In fact they are portrayed as the ‘foul dust’ that prey on Gatsby’s hospitality and shows him no regard – none attend his funeral. Their behaviour at these parties are vulgar – they are drunk and flirtatious and have no care for Gatsby or his possessions. (3)

11.4 11.4.1 The house is over the top/too much – created to impress. It is a showpiece, yet it also reflects the typical flashy sense of style of the newly rich. (2)

11.4.2 To impress Daisy. (1)

11.5 Klipspringer represents the ‘foul dust’ that preys on Gatsby – he arrives at Gatsby’s house and stays on indefinitely. After Gatsby’s death he phones for his tennis shoes that he left behind and not to find out about the funeral arrangements. Daisy can be compared to him in the sense that she causes the death of Gatsby’s dream and inadvertently his death – she is careless and has no care for Gatsby, allowing him to take the blame for Myrtle’s death. She also does not bother to attend his funeral. (3)

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11.6 She cannot believe that Gatsby is just a common criminal – she knows she could never leave Tom and be with a man like Gatsby. She is horrified at what Tom has revealed and the reality of Gatsby’s world and his mob connections has just sunk in. (2)

11.711.7.1 He is panicking and desperate. (1)11.7.2 Tom has just revealed Gatsby as a common criminal and

Gatsby feels he has to justify himself to Daisy, telling her that none of it matters as he loves her. Perhaps he feels his chance at future happiness slipping from him. (3)

11.8 He feels in control of the situation again and very secure in the knowledge that he has destroyed Gatsby and any chance he might have had with Daisy.

He is arrogant and cruel, forcing Daisy to leave with Gatsby because it doesn’t matter if she leaves with him now. He knows that she will not leave him for Gatsby. He enjoys humiliating both Gatsby and Daisy. (3)

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TOTAL FOR SECTION B: 25

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QUESTION 12: OTHELLO – ESSAY QUESTION

Here is the basis for answering this essay. Use the following as a guide to marking this question. Responses might differ, depending on the candidate’s sensitivity to and understanding of the play. Allow for answers that are different, original and show evidence of critical thought and interpretation. The candidate’s response must be judged on merit. Responses which provide apt references to the play, must be credited. Refer to the rubric to assess the candidate’s response.

“Othello is the principal agent of his own downfall. We observe his gradual decline as his vulnerable nature yields itself to corruption and evil.”

Discuss how Othello’s strengths and weaknesses contribute to his downfall and to what extent he redeems himself at the end of the play.

He is an outstanding soldier, admired by the Duke and the Senate – they send him to defend Cyprus from the Turks.

He assumes control of the situation when they come to arrest him and he remains calm when he wards off a sword fight.

He is willing to appear in front of the Duke and the Senate. He does not react to Brabantio’s accusations. He remains courteous and

calm even though he is accused of using witchcraft to win Desdemona’s love.

He answers the allegations against him logically and rationally. His respect for Desdemona is evident when he allows her to defend her

decision to marry him in front of the Duke and the senate. He is completely honest in his account of how he met Desdemona. He is willing to make sacrifices –to leave Desdemona shortly after their

marriage to take his position as general in Cyprus. He has a “free and open nature”. Self-reliant and makes decisions on his own - he acts instantly- fires

Cassio when he is involved in a drunken brawl. Iago is successful in his manipulation because Othello is unsure of

himself when it comes to relationships. Othello has skills to cope with war, but lacks social graces. Iago exploits this by telling him that “all” women commit adultery. Othello believes him because he lacks experience in love. Othello is too trusting and gullible because he never questions Iago. His insecurities become his weaknesses:

He is insecure about his race as a black man in a white society.He is a foreigner- he is not familiar with the Venetian culture.He is much older than Desdemona.

His jealousy is his greatest flaw as it drives him mad. He behaves irrationally and acts completely out of character – he slaps

Desdemona in public.

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Jealousy (“green-eyed monster) transforms Othello from a noble leader to a madman.

After Iago’s treachery is revealed at the end of the play, Othello shows remorse for his actions and understands his own tragedy, contending that he “loved not wisely, but too well”.

He is content for his story to be told simply and honestly, with his faults open for all to see.

He acknowledges his guilt, tries to summarise his role in the tragedy, then takes his own life.

He is prepared to pay for the murder but first wishes to explain himself. His final speech is dignified just like before. He realises and admits his failure (failure to reason, excessive love). His suicide can be seen as cowardly as it is an easy way out or it can be

seen that he wants to rid Venice of the “malignant Turk” he has become. He executes himself for the same reason he killed Desdemona. He acts as the agent of justice. His sense of fairness and objectivity is once again evident.

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014QUESTION 13: OTHELLO – CONTEXTUAL QUESTION

13.1 Place the extract in context by referring to what happened just before and just after this extract. (3)

It is just after Iago tells Othello about Cassio’s dream and says that he has seen Cassio wipe his beard with a handkerchief that looks like Desdemona’s. (Emilia has given the handkerchief to Iago who left it in Cassio’s room). After this scene Iago commits to killing Cassio while Othello commits to killing Desdemona. Othello also promotes Iago to his lieutenant.

13.2 Refer to line 3: “It speaks against her with the other proofs”Give an outline of the “other proofs” against Desdemona? (3)

Cassio leaving Desdemona abruptly when Othello and Iago arrived (when Iago says “I like not that”). Iago’s rendition of the ‘dream’ that Cassio had about Desdemona. Cassio’s conversation with Iago about Bianca that Othello thought was about Desdemona. Desdemona interceding for Cassio all the time.

13.3 Refer to lines 10 to 11: “Yield up, O love, thy crown and hearted throne To tyrannous hate!”

Identify and explain the figure of speech used in the image above. (3)

Personification OR contrast/antithesis.

Othello is replacing the love for Desdemona that ruled in his heart with hatred and vengeance.

13.4 Why, do you think, does Iago kneel with Othello in this extract? (3)

He wants to show his solidarity with Othello. His complete loyalty to Othello’s cause / revenge. It also implies that he has succeeded and that Othello is now completely in his control.

13.5 Refer to lines 24 to 25: “In the due reverence of a sacred vow I here engage my words”

Othello calls the promise he is making a “sacred vow” (line 24). What does this comment reveal about his character at this stage of the play? (3)

It reveals that he is adamant / committed to his revenge. Nothing will change his mind. He sees it as a ‘holy’ promise and takes it very seriously. He has convinced himself that he is doing what he has to do in order to ‘save’ the others from being cuckolded by Desdemona. He is fixed on revenge.

AND

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 201413.6 Refer to lines 23-27: “…in Aleppo once … And smote him, thus.”

What does Othello’s comment in the extract above, reveal about his state of mind at this stage of the play? Discuss this with reference to the play as a whole. (3)

The Turks are the enemy who Othello is sent to Cyprus to fight initially. The term Turk is also used to refer to anyone lacking in judgement, morals and character. He tells how he once came upon a Turk beating a Venetian and violently killed him. Now he speaks of himself as a Turk (a “circumcised dog”). He sees himself as the enemy of Venice and when he kills himself in the same way as he once killed the Turk, he is eradicating the enemy. Othello is distancing himself from the part of himself who killed Desdemona and feels this is his due punishment. He has also become the ‘outcast’ in Venice that he feared from the start.

13.7 Do you agree with Gratiano when he says: “All that’s spoke is marr’d”? Motivate your answer. (3)

Learner’s own opinion with suitable motivation.Agree: Othello has just given a very eloquent speech explaining why he acted in the way he did and how he was provoked by Iago. His suicide detracts from this. The Duke might have shown Othello mercy because of the mitigating circumstances (Iago’s machinations), but now that is not possible.Disagree: Othello’s explanation reminds us of the Othello from Act 1 – through his simple, honest explanation he regains his nobility and takes responsibility for his wrongdoing. We are still frustrated at his folly, but he redeems himself through his speech.

[Accept other well-motivated responses – global marking]

13.8 Comment critically on the significance of Othello’s suicide. (4)

Suicide is the only way out for Othello – a just retribution for the death of Desdemona and an acceptance of responsibility for his actions. He needs to be in control of his own ‘punishment’ for what he did to Desdemona. The humiliation of what he has become is also too much for him to bear – he could not continue to live after losing honour and without Desdemona. He acted as Desdemona’s ‘judge’, so it really is the only way for him to then ‘judge’ himself.

His inherent nobility and goodness is seen again because after he had sacrificed his wife, his love, all that makes life worth living to his sense of honour, he then finds that this very sacrifice has brought not honour but dishonour. He is now a "murderer," he sacrifices himself to his honour, and dies by his own hand.

It could also be seen that in taking his own life, Othello actually takes the easy way out. (He explains, after he stabs Iago and Iago brags that he will not die as a result of the wound, that in his view "'tis happiness

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014to die."). When he kills himself it means that he does not have to suffer the consequences of his actions for very long.It could be argued that Othello's suicide is the ultimate punishment. If we consider suicide to be a sin, which was the accepted belief during Shakespeare's time, then we can assume that Othello will end up in hell for what he has done. Either way, Othello's suicide is his form of self-punishment and shows that he has accepted responsibility for his actions.[Accept other well-motivated responses – global marking]

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014QUESTION 14: THE CRUCIBLE – ESSAY QUESTION

Here is the basis for answering this essay. Use the following as a guide to marking this question. Responses might differ, depending on the candidate’s sensitivity to and understanding of the play. Allow for answers that are different, original and show evidence of critical thought and interpretation. The candidate’s response must be judged on merit. Responses which provide apt references to the play, must be credited. Refer to the rubric to assess the candidate’s response.

PROCTOR: I’ll tell you what’s walking Salem – vengeance is walking Salem.

Discuss the validity of this statement in an essay of 400-450 words, commenting critically on the proponents of the witch-trials and to what extent they are driven by vengeance.

Vengeance provides a catalyst for the action of the play as Arthur Miller makes it clear in Act One that the villagers harbour deep grudges and resentment. The personal motives and actions become political as the theocracy is pitted against the individual.

- Abigail Williams has a vindictive nature and feels victimised. This makes her lash out at others.She resents John for refusing to continue their affair. She is vengeful towards Elizabeth for dismissing her and standing in her way, going so far as to drink a charm of chicken blood to kill her. She blames Elizabeth for her bad reputation. She plots her revenge, using Mary Warren’s poppet to accuse Elizabeth of witchcraft. John Proctor believes that Abigail wants Elizabeth condemned to death so that he would be free to marry Abigail. In John’s opinion, Abigail’s accusations are motivated by jealousy of Elizabeth and a desire for revenge against John for ending their affair. He later denounces Abigail’s accusations as nothing more than a “whore’s vengeance”. Abigail hates that she is treated as a servant and resents the hypocrisy of the people of Salem. She enjoys the attention she receives and the power she wields as the trials proceed.

- Reverend Parris resents his parishioners; suspects they want to get rid of him; believes he has many enemies – “there is a party in this church…” He is aggrieved by John’s individualism, his straight talking and his refusal to conform.Parris is totally self-serving. He is resentful about his conditions of service e.g. firewood, title deeds of house. He is worried how the antics of his daughter and niece will reflect on him.With the witch-hunt, Parris sees his chance to strengthen his hold over the town. He becomes fanatical in his relentless pursuit of “witches” and continually fuels the hysteria that grips Salem.

- Mrs Putnam is jealous of Rebecca Nurse’s fertility and large family. She resents what she perceives as Rebecca’s judgement of her when it is revealed the she

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014- sent her daughter, Ruth, to “learn from Tituba who murdered her sisters”. She is

excited by the thought of witchcraft and finding a scapegoat to assuage her guilt. She seeks vengeance for the death of her babies by accusing Rebecca Nurse who is charged with “the marvellous and supernatural murder of Goody Putnam’s babies”.

- Thomas Putnam is described as “a man of many grievances”. He is vindictive, resentful and convinced of his intellectual superiority. Arthur Miller points out that many of the accusations were written in Putnam’s handwriting. Giles Corey claims he has proof that Putnam benefits financially from his daughter’s accusations, which allow him to acquire the land of the condemned. Putnam pushes Reverend Parris “toward the abyss” of believing that witchcraft is at work in Salem.

- Ironically the witch trials, based on vengeance, are run by so-called men of God (Parris, Putnam, Danforth, Hathorne). They allow the pursuit of vengeance (a sin) to triumph over reason, common sense and mercy, proving themselves to be hypocrites.

- Reverend Hale, convinced of the Proctors’ integrity, intervenes on their behalf in court. His eyes have been opened; he sees Abigail as ‘false’ and declares that ‘private vengeance is working through this (Abigail’s) testimony’.

It is clear that vengeance is such a powerful motive in the witch trials that John Proctor is justified when he personifies vengeance and declares that “vengeance is walking Salem”.

[25]

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014QUESTION 15: THE CRUCIBLE – CONTEXTUAL QUESTION

15.1.1 What is it that Danforth ‘must have’ from John Proctor in line 1?

This is a signed confession/testimony admitting to his dealings with the devil/witchcraft.

A lie which will save John’s life, but destroy his self-respect. (2)

15.2 Explain why both Danforth and Parris need this from John.

John’s confession will make the charges of witchcraft appear legitimate and allay the doubts/dissent in Salem about the hanging of these respected members of the community. This confession endorses Danforth’s decision to continue relentlessly with the hangings despite public opinion.

Parris fears for his safety/ he has been threatened (dagger at the door). Abigail’s disappearance and theft have cast doubt on her charges of witchery. He has been exposed as a fool who was easily manipulated by her. This confession will allow him to save face. (4)

15.3 To what is John referring when he says, “God knows how black my sins are!” (lines 10-11)

His adultery/affair with Abigail and his procrastination in denouncing Abigail in order to preserve his reputation. (2)

15.4 “You will not use me! I am no Sarah Good or Tituba.” (line 13) Discuss how Sarah Good and Tituba have been used by the authorities.

These characters succumb to pressure and admit to conspiring with the devil in order to save their lives. These self-preserving lies validate and perpetuate the witch hunts.They are used to show that those who confess and repent are granted a reprieve/ used as examples to encourage others to confess. (3)

15.5 Explain why John feels that he has “sold his friends”? (line 17)

By signing the confession he has betrayed Rebecca Nurse, Martha and Giles Corey who have been steadfast in their refusal to confess.

His self-interest will brand them as witches and they will be hanged. (2)15.6 “(he knows it is insane)“ (line 26) Suggest why John persists with this argument even though he is aware that “it is insane”.

He is confused/unsure/afraid as he wrestles with his conscience and his will to live. The conflict raging within him makes it difficult for him to be rational.

and/or John does not want these unscrupulous people to use his signature to legitimise

their trials. He knows that his confession carries weight, and if there is evidence of it, all the convicted will appear guilty, whether they confess or not. (2)

15.7 What do John’s actions in this extract reveal about his character and values?

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Metro North Education District English Home Language Paper Two Memorandum September 2014 John Proctor is a God-fearing man, well aware of his flaws. He asks God for forgiveness, but is defiant and not prepared to have his confession made public. He struggles against his own weaknesses and strives to live up to his ideals of

integrity, honesty and loyalty. He wants to be seen as honest and honourable, leaving a legacy of which his children can be proud.

He shows his loyalty by refusing to testify against others and betray his friends. To achieve integrity, he cannot damn himself in the eyes of his family and friends and chooses to go to the gallows rather than destroy his name. (4)

15.8 Explain the irony in Danforth’s words, “I will not deal in lies”. (line 36)

He professes not to have anything to do with lies, yet he accepts Abigail’s lies and relies on hysterical girls and false confessions as the truth on which the trials are based (2)

15.9 “Which way do you go, Mister?” (line 38)15.9.1 Explain the ‘way’ John decides to go.

John tears up the confession/refuses to lie or betray his friends/ goes to the gallows having regained his goodness and worth. (2)

15.9.2 Discuss whether you agree or disagree with John’s final decision.

Agree: John is influenced by Elizabeth’s integrity and his own desire for self- respect. He wants a fulfilled, purposeful life, and is not prepared to live with a marred reputation – he, therefore, chooses death.

He could not serve as a husband, a father or a member of the community if he gave up his name or betrayed his friends to save himself.

OR

Disagree: He is selfish to consider his name and his conscience more important than the pregnant wife and children he is leaving to fend for themselves. He has just reconciled with Elizabeth and they can be happy together. Abigail has shown her true worth – the community will forgive John’s indiscretion. (2)

[25]

TOTAL FOR SECTION C: 25

GRAND TOTAL: 80

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