2023 ENG2603 ASSIGNMENT 01
UNIQUE NUMBER: 857863
DUE DATE: 12 MAY 2023
Questions answered
1. Using the above quotation as a point of departure, in two paragraphs, discuss how
Nyasha’s anorexic condition, resulting from the extremism of both her self-induced
vomiting and perfectionism, is symbolic of the various attempts by some women in
Nervous Condition to fight off patriarchal and colonial oppression.
2. In two paragraphs, discuss the characters of Nhamo and Chido, and the effects of
customary privilege and colonial conditioning on their actions and attitudes as presented
in Nervous Conditions. Ensure that you support your argument by using examples from
the primary text.
3. In a paragraph of not more than half a page, discuss the portrayal of any two female
characters in Nervous Conditions. Your discussion must include how their different
experiences inform their attitudes towards Western and Shona cultures.
4. Explain the following poetic terms as used in poetry. Ensure that you provide one example
from any of the prescribed poems to support your explanation.
• Imagery
• simile
• Diction
• Metaphor
• Personification
5. Answer the following questions on the poem ‘A Hen Crowed’ by Mzi Mahola,
a. Provide a brief background of the poet, Mzi Mahola.
b. What is the intention of the author in the poem ‘A hen Crowed’?
c. Provide examples of the following from the poem:
• Metaphor
• Personification
6. Write two paragraphs in which you discuss the intention and feeling depicted in the poem
‘My Name’ by Mogoleng wa Selepe. Your discussion must be supported by examples from
the poem