WAEC Literature in English 2022 Theory — Question 16

Model answer

Points to develop: i. Relation to theme; ii. Character identification; iii. Definition or explanation of comic relief; iv. Gabriel's delusional actions and speeches; v. Significance of comic relief. The play relates the theme of racial discrimination in America in the 1950s which impacts the lives of African Americans, particularly Troy, his brother, Gabriel, a veteran of World War II, and ignored by the larger white American society. Gabriel is Troy's younger brother. He is the only one of Troy's siblings that we encounter in the play. He is a Second World War veteran who has returned home with a disabling head injury that has made him mentally unsound. Comic relief refers to the interactions of characters, speeches, or scenes in a literary work that alleviate tension by creating fun or humour. Gabriel's funny actions and speeches are attributed to his mental state, but they add to the reader's interest by lessening the tension in the family. Gabriel's delusional actions include seeing himself as an Archangel Gabriel. He also claims to seeing and chasing 'hell hounds'. He believes he died long ago and went to heaven where he shared 'some big fat biscuits' with St. Peter'. He blows his trumpet that gives no sound. Gabriel surprises everyone with his appearance at Troy's funeral and does a slow eerie dance while announcing he is going to tell St. Peter to open the gate for Troy. Gabriel's comic relief has its own significance. It focuses attention on the excesses of racial discrimination. It implicates Troy Maxson in his selfish use of his brother's money. Gabriel's comic relief also provides spaces for audience laughter to lessen the tension in the family. His brother's deeds are now forgiven and Saint Peter is ready to receive him. Gabriel blowing his trumpet with no sound helps to suggest the futility of life as shown in Troy's own life and death.