TOPIC 1:

In your groups, discuss the relationship between language and literature. Each group will make their
presentation during our next class.
To exhaustively explain the relationship between language and literature, I will cover multiple
aspects of this complex topic based on the key points mentioned earlier.

1. **Language as a medium for literary expression:**

- Language provides the foundation for creating stories, poems, and other literary works. Without
language, literature wouldn't exist.
- Different languages offer distinct ways of perceiving reality, leading to varied forms of
storytelling and worldviews.
- Languages shape the structure, style, and content of literature, influencing everything from
sentence construction to narrative techniques.

2. **Language and cultural context:**

- Language reflects the social, historical, and geographical backgrounds of writers and readers
alike.
- Understanding the nuances of specific linguistic expressions helps reveal deeper layers of
meaning in texts.
- Dialects, jargons, and slangs provide insights into subcultures and marginalized communities.

3. **Language and power dynamics:**

- Dominant languages often exert power over minority languages, shaping literary production and
consumption patterns.
- Colonialism has led to the spread of certain languages while suppressing others, resulting in
unequal representation in global literature.
- Bilingual and multilingual works challenge monolinguistic assumptions about literature and
expand possibilities for cross-cultural communication.

4. **Language and translation:**

- Translation plays a crucial role in making literature accessible across borders and languages.
- However, translating literature involves more than just word-for-word conversion; it requires
capturing the essence of the original work.
- Translation raises questions about fidelity, authenticity, and the possibility of accurately
conveying the spirit of a text.

5. **Language and creativity:**

- Experimentation with language allows writers to push boundaries and create innovative styles.
- Playful manipulation of syntax, semantics, and pragmatics can lead to new forms of artistic
expression.
- Coined terms, neologisms, and metaphors enrich the lexicon and contribute to the evolution of
language itself.

These explanatory points can help form the basis of a comprehensive exploration of the relationship
between language and literature. By examining these topics in detail, students can gain a better
appreciation for the intricate connections between language and literature and develop a deeper
understanding of the artform.
TOPIC 2
Below is an extract from Henry Ole Kulet's Blossoms of the Savannah. Explain any three activities
that you can use to enhance understanding of this extract.

“No Joseph,” she said in an infantile whimper. “I can’t bear that we can’t express
the love that we have for one another because of some primitive culture. If by
loving you, I offend the sensibilities of Nasila then let me offend and face the
consequences of doing so!”
“I also love you very much,” Joseph Parmuat responded finally. “I loved you the
moment I saw you during your father’s homecoming ceremony. But then the clan
matter came to separate us. It is true we have no blood relation. But Nasila culture
dictates who are related and who are not. We are slotted among those who cannot
marry.”
“No, it can’t be, I cannot accept its verdict,” she said petulantly her words
agonized. “No way, never!” She stopped, confused and angry with herself at her
inarticulate outburst. She took several long steadying breaths and then said, “I
cannot accept that a culture that does not feed, clothe or house me comes to control
my life. Our lives belong to us, Joseph. The destiny of our lives is in our own
hands. We should guard it jealously.”At last they drew a little a part .His eyes were
open, honest and steady upon her face

Answer
Three activities that can enhance understanding of the extract from Henry Ole Kulet's "Blossoms of
the Savannah" include:

1. Discussion of Cultural Conflict: Organize a class debate centered on the theme of cultural
conflicts and individual rights, referencing the characters' struggles against the restrictive
Nasila culture. Encourage students to consider the importance of balancing cultural
heritage with personal freedoms
1
2
.Questions:
1. How does the concept of cultural identity influence the actions of the characters?
2. Should individuals sacrifice their beliefs for the sake of preserving cultural
traditions?
3. Is it possible to maintain cultural integrity without limiting personal liberties?
2. Exploring Gender Norms: Conduct a comparative analysis of the roles assigned to men
and women according to Nasila culture, drawing parallels to modern Western values. Use
the text to highlight the challenges faced by women who resist conforming to traditional
gender norms
1
2
.Questions:
1. How does the practice of female genital mutilation relate to gender inequality in the
novel?
2. Are there similarities between the oppression of women in Nasila culture and in
Western cultures throughout history?
 3. Can the novel serve as a tool for promoting awareness of gender issues worldwide?
3. Writing Creative Perspective Essays: Have students imagine themselves as characters in
the novel, writing from their point of view regarding the choices made by Joseph and
Resian. Challenge students to analyze the consequences of their decisions and evaluate the
potential outcomes of alternative scenarios
3
.Instructions:
1. Choose a character and write a creative perspective essay from their point of view.
2. Address the challenges faced by the chosen character and describe their emotional
responses to the situation.
3. Consider the potential impacts of various decision paths and argue for the best
course of action.