JAMB 2022 Literature in English · Question 16

Chanson is a term denoting a

Options

  1. A.popular Korean verse
  2. B.Song from the middle Ages
  3. C.Form of love song
  4. D.poem of Varied Metrical forms

Answer: B. Song from the middle Ages

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The question asks for the meaning of the literary term "chanson".

Explain the concept: "Chanson" is the French word for "song". In literary and musical history, it refers to French songs, especially those from the Middle Ages. The best-known examples are:

  • Chanson de geste ("song of heroic deeds"), epic poems such as The Song of Roland, composed in medieval France.
  • Chansons of the troubadours and trouvères, medieval songs about courtly love.

Step-by-step solution:

  • A. Popular Korean verse. Wrong. "Chanson" is French, not Korean.
  • B. Song from the middle Ages. Correct. The term comes from medieval French lyric and epic song traditions.
  • C. Form of love song. Partly true, since many medieval chansons were about love. But the term is broader and includes epic songs (chansons de geste) and many other subjects. It is not limited to love songs.
  • D. Poem of varied metrical forms. This describes something like an irregular ode. It is not the meaning of "chanson".

Answer: The best option is B.

Tip: For literary terms from other languages, translate the word first. "Chanson" means "song" in French, so look for the option that says "song". Then use the historical period (medieval France) to choose between close options. Also remember that chanson de geste means "song of heroic deeds".

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