WAEC Literature in English 2018 Theory — Question 12

Model answer

A foil is a character whose qualities and circumstances contrast with, and thereby highlight, those of another character. Aloho serves as a foil to Ogeyi in the play. Aloho and Ogeyi are university roommates and graduates of Mass Communication from the same university, and both are born-again Christians. However, their circumstances diverge sharply after graduation. While Ogeyi is fortunate to secure gainful, dignified employment and maintains her moral standing, Aloho becomes a victim of unemployment and economic desperation. This desperation makes her vulnerable to exploitation, and she is lured into an illicit relationship with the Minister/Chief, who uses her both to push cocaine and to satisfy his sexual urges under the guise of employing her as his Protocol Officer. Where Ogeyi remains steadfast, principled and resolute in exposing corruption — ultimately reporting Aloho's death and the Chief's atrocities to the police — Aloho's compromised circumstances lead to her tragic death during a botched, forced abortion. Through this contrast, the playwright uses Aloho's tragic fate to highlight Ogeyi's resilience, integrity and moral fortitude, and to underscore the devastating consequences of corruption and unemployment on vulnerable young people, especially women, in the society.