2025 WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay -Answers

Get free 2025 WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay Questions and Answers for Private Candidates | WAEC Literature Questions (25th Nov, 2025).

The 2025 WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay is one of the most vital examinations for candidates seeking admission into arts, humanities, law, and related fields. Literature-in-English is not only a compulsory subject for many courses, but it also develops a candidate’s ability to analyze texts, think critically, and express ideas effectively.

This year’s Literature-in-English exam is scheduled for Tuesday, 25th November 2025, with two main papers:

Literature-in-English 2 (Essay): 08:30 a.m. – 09:45 a.m. (1 hr 15 mins)
Literature-in-English 1 (Objective): 09:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. (1 hr)

In this article, we’ll cover the structure of the exam, sample questions and answers, likely areas of focus, preparation tips, and the importance of mastering WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay.

Exam Structure of WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay

1. Paper 1 – Objective (1 hour)

50 to 60 multiple-choice questions.
Covers all sections: poetry, drama, prose, general literary appreciation.
Tests quick recall and recognition of literary terms and works.

2. Paper 2 – Essay (1 hr 15 mins)

Structured essay questions.
Candidates must demonstrate deeper understanding of set texts.
Emphasis on themes, characterization, style, and literary devices.
Answers should be well-structured, analytical, and supported with textual evidence.

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Sample Objective Questions (Paper 1)

Q1: In literature, a protagonist is:
Answer: The main character in a play, novel, or story.

Q2: A poem without a regular rhyme scheme is known as:
Answer: Free verse.

Q3: The expression “the world is a stage” is an example of:
Answer: Metaphor.

Q4: Who wrote Things Fall Apart?
Answer: Chinua Achebe.

Q5: The conflict in Romeo and Juliet is primarily between:
Answer: The Montagues and Capulets.

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Sample Essay Questions (Paper 2)

Q1: Discuss the theme of colonialism in Things Fall Apart.
Answer (Summary): Achebe portrays colonialism as a force that disrupts traditional Igbo society. The arrival of missionaries and British administrators weakens communal values and brings division, symbolized by Okonkwo’s tragic resistance.

Q2: Analyze the role of Iago in Shakespeare’s Othello.
Answer (Summary): Iago functions as the antagonist, embodying deception and manipulation. Through his schemes, he destroys Othello’s trust in Desdemona, leading to tragedy. His character illustrates jealousy and betrayal.

Q3: How does Soyinka use satire in The Lion and the Jewel?
Answer (Summary): Soyinka satirizes Westernization and blind imitation of foreign culture through Lakunle, while celebrating tradition through Baroka. The play mocks extremes while highlighting balance.

Q4: Examine the significance of imagery in African poetry.
Answer (Summary): African poets use imagery to depict cultural values, natural landscapes, and historical struggles. For instance, Okara’s “Piano and Drums” contrasts modernity and tradition through vivid images.

Likely Areas of Focus for 2025 WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay

African Prose: Themes of colonialism, tradition vs. modernity, identity.
Non-African Prose: Social criticism, realism, conflict, and human nature.
African Drama: Cultural heritage, satire, politics, and generational conflict.
Non-African Drama: Tragedy, fate vs. free will, betrayal, and love.
African Poetry: Oral tradition, imagery, symbolism, resistance, post-colonial struggle.
Non-African Poetry: Romanticism, modernism, metaphors, rhythm, and tone.
General Literary Appreciation: Knowledge of literary terms, styles, genres.

Tips to Excel in WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay

Read Set Texts Thoroughly: Don’t rely only on summaries.
Master Literary Terms: Understand devices like irony, satire, allegory, and symbolism.
Use Quotations: Support answers with short, relevant quotes.
Practice Essay Writing: Organize arguments with clear introductions, bodies, and conclusions.
Analyze Themes: Be able to identify central ideas in plays, novels, and poems.
Understand Characterization: Know the roles and traits of key characters.
Answer the Question Asked: Stay focused, avoid irrelevant points.
Balance Obj & Essay: The objective section tests recall, the essay tests analysis.
Time Management: Use first minutes to plan essay answers.
Revise Past Questions: Patterns often repeat in WAEC.

Why WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay Matters

Admission Requirement: Essential for courses in law, mass communication, English, education, and arts.
Critical Thinking: Encourages deep analysis of human behavior and society.
Cultural Awareness: Exposes students to African and global traditions.
Communication Skills: Improves essay writing, comprehension, and vocabulary.
Personal Growth: Literature broadens perspective and empathy.

Extended Example with Step-by-Step Essay Answer

Q: Discuss the conflict between tradition and modernity in The Lion and the Jewel by Wole Soyinka.

Answer (Expanded):
The play highlights generational conflict between tradition, represented by Baroka (the Bale), and modernity, represented by Lakunle, the schoolteacher. Lakunle mocks traditional customs like bride price and polygamy, believing they are outdated. Baroka, on the other hand, cleverly uses tradition and wit to outsmart Lakunle, eventually winning Sidi’s hand. Soyinka satirizes blind imitation of foreign culture while also showing the resilience of African traditions. The conflict reveals that modernization should not mean erasing cultural identity.

Preparation Strategies for WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay

Develop a Study Plan: Dedicate time to prose, drama, and poetry weekly.
Summarize Each Text: Create notes on plot, characters, and themes.
Join Discussion Groups: Debating interpretations sharpens understanding.
Use Past Questions: Practice both Obj and Essay papers.
Consult Study Guides: Use WAEC-approved texts and literature companions.
Focus on Style: Pay attention to imagery, tone, diction, and structure.
Revise Constantly: Repetition helps retain key details.
Balance Coverage: Don’t neglect non-African texts.
Improve Language: Clear expression earns marks in essay writing.
Stay Calm on Exam Day: Confidence is as important as preparation.

Conclusion

The 2025 WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay scheduled for Tuesday, 25th November 2025 remains an essential paper for candidates in the arts and humanities. Success requires not just memorization, but deep understanding of texts, themes, and literary techniques.

By reading widely, practicing past questions, and writing essays that are well-organized and supported with quotations, candidates can maximize their performance. The WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay is more than an exam—it builds critical thinking and communication skills that are invaluable for life and future careers.

Ultimate 2025 WAEC GCE Literature-in-English Obj/Essay Answers Guide