WAEC Literature in English 2020 Theory — Question 8

Model answer

Points to develop: 1. Relation to theme. 2. Character identification. 3. Incidents of their appearance. 4. Notions of their presence. 5. Characters' reactions to the presence of these phenomena (the ghosts and spirits). 6. Significance. Model answer: One of the major themes in the novel is superstition. Apart from superstition and belief in spirits, the novel can be described as a gothic or horrendous novel. This brings in the relevance of spirits, ghosts and supernatural forces in the affairs of humans in the novel. The presence of supernatural accounts for several strange occurrences. Instances of supernatural occurrences in the novel include the Gigantic leg, the mysterious shield, manifestations of apparitions and spirits. Incidents and appearances of spirits and ghosts in the novel include supernatural manifestations that followed Conrad's death and Manfred's overture with Isabella. Another instance of supernatural manifestation is Manfred's excitement at the intended inter-marriages. While praying, a spectre appears to Frederic and warns him against his marriage to Matilda. A spectre also appears to Frederic on his way to Otranto. Other instances include reports from Manfred's servants (Diego and Jacques) and the confirmation of Theodore as the true heir. The spirits and ghosts appear in the novel for certain reasons. They warn, predict and haunt. Their presences are marked by words of horror such as violent motion, evidence of resignation such as heaving, words of violence such as "enormous sabre" and rattling of armour. Their presence is also marked by images of demons such as giant, fleshless jaws, empty sockets of a skeleton, hermits, etc. Words of fear such as 'alas!', 'ravest' and the deep sigh attest to the presence of spirits and ghosts in the novel. When the servants of Manfred (Diego and Jacques) see the gigantic leg, they are filled with fear. Bianca is also filled with fear as she declares 'I had rather leave everything behind me than stay another hour under this roof'. Hippolita, Manfred's wife also submits and entreats Manfred to submit to the spirits (the heaven). As a result of the spectre's appearance, Frederic withdraws his desire for Matilda. After he has mistakenly killed Matilda, Manfred prays for mercy and accepts the reversal of his fortune. The spirits and ghosts are of significance in the novel. They are used to create suspense. The ghosts and spirits are also used to provide flashback. They also resolve the conflicts in the novel. For instance, after the declaration of Theodore as the true heir of Alfonso, all appearances of ghosts and spirits end. The ghosts signal a new beginning in the castle. Alfonso's form speaks of a new heir after it, 'appears in the centre of the ruin.' The ghosts and spirits help to bring about the fulfillment of ancient prophecy in the novel and their presence adds to the gothic setting of the novel.