A praise poem is ____________

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which literary term describes a poem that praises someone or something.

Step 2: Explain the concepts

• Ballad: A narrative poem or song that tells a story, usually in short stanzas and often about love, adventure, or tragedy.
• Panegyric: A formal public speech or poem written in praise of a person, group, or achievement. It comes from the Greek panegyrikos, meaning "a public assembly."
• Allegory: A story, poem, or picture in which characters and events carry a hidden moral or political meaning (e.g., Animal Farm).
• Epigram: A short, witty, often satirical statement or poem that makes a sharp point.

Step 3: Match the definition A praise poem exists to honour or celebrate its subject. Only a panegyric does this. Examples in African literature include Yoruba oriki (praise poetry for people, towns, and families) and the Zulu izibongo, which praise kings and heroes. These are classic examples of panegyrics.

• A: Ballad tells a story, not primarily praise. ✗
• B: Panegyric is a poem or speech of praise. ✓
• C: Allegory conveys hidden meaning. ✗
• D: Epigram is short and witty. ✗

Step 4: Answer The correct option is B. A Panegyric.

Tip: Link Panegyric with Praise, since both start with P. For other terms, remember: Ballad = story-song, Allegory = hidden meaning, Epigram = short and witty, Elegy = mourning, Ode = lofty praise or address to a subject.