They entered laughing, deliberately sniffing the fragrant odour of incense that was floating on the air - NSC English FAL - Question 5 - 2023 - Paper 2
Question 5
They entered laughing, deliberately sniffing the fragrant odour of incense that was floating on the air. I sat in front of them, laughing with them. The Imam attacke... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:They entered laughing, deliberately sniffing the fragrant odour of incense that was floating on the air - NSC English FAL - Question 5 - 2023 - Paper 2
Step 1
Enforced into a marriage
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Answer
In this instance, the characters reflect the societal pressures that dictate marriage, suggesting that Binetou has been thrust into a union against her will. The narrative underscores the lack of agency experienced by women, highlighting the patriarchal structure.
Step 2
The setting is the narrator's home
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Answer
This extract is set within the familiar and intimate confines of the narrator's home after the marriage of Modou to Binetou. This choice of setting signifies the personal and social consequences of such unions.
Step 3
The Imam feels uncomfortable
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Answer
The Imam’s discomfort is palpable as he navigates the sensitive topic of Modou's second marriage, reflecting the potential turmoil in community relationships when addressing such matters.
Step 4
Metaphor
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The narrator's reaction can be seen as a metaphor for his internal conflict and the broader anxieties surrounding societal expectation and personal loss. The sound he makes symbolizes not just surprise, but the painful realization of betrayal.
Step 5
The discussion of the theme of betrayal
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Betrayal unfolds on multiple levels within the narrative; Modou betrays his first wife by marrying again, Binetou feels abandoned, and the narrator grapples with feelings of loss and betrayal as he witnesses these social dynamics unravel.
Step 6
Open-ended viewpoint
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Answer
The acceptance or rejection of Modou’s actions showcases the complexity of relationships within societal constraints. The narrator's reaction can be interpreted in various ways, revealing the layers of emotional depth and personal conflict experienced by all involved.
