Educational Notes

a. Why did Jonathan think of himself as ‘extraordinarily lucky’?

Ans: Jonathan considered himself ‘extraordinarily lucky’ because he and his family survived the Nigerian Civil War. He even found his house still standing and recovered his bicycle, which helped him restart his life after the war.

b. What are the ‘five blessings’ for which Jonathan is grateful?

Ans: Jonathan is grateful for the lives of himself, his wife, and his three children. These ‘five blessings’ were more valuable to him than any material possession lost during the war.

c. Why did Jonathan mistrust the officer who wanted to take his bicycle? What does this tell you about the situation in Nigeria?

Ans: Jonathan mistrusted the officer because he feared corruption or being cheated out of his valuable possession. This reveals the lack of law and order in post-war Nigeria, where bribery and exploitation were common.

d. What visitors might be at the door? Are Jonathan and his wife completely surprised? Explain.

Ans: The visitors at the door were a group of armed thieves. Jonathan and his wife were not completely surprised, as they lived in an insecure and lawless post-war environment where such incidents were expected.

e. Why does no one in the neighborhood respond when the thieves pound on Jonathan’s door? Why do the thieves call for the police?

Ans: The neighbors were too afraid to interfere, fearing for their own safety. The thieves mockingly called for the police to show that there was no one to protect the people, further revealing the breakdown of law and security.

a. What does Jonathan mean by his expression “Nothing puzzles God”? What does this expression reveal about his character?

Ans: The phrase means that no event, no matter how strange or unfortunate, surprises God. It shows Jonathan’s faith in God’s plan and his positive attitude. Despite his losses, he remains optimistic and focused on rebuilding his life.

b. How does Jonathan change as he experiences the conflicts in his life?

Ans: Jonathan grows stronger and more resilient through conflict. Instead of complaining about what he lost, he adapts to the new reality and remains thankful. He accepts hardship calmly and focuses on survival and progress.

c. Read the extract and answer the questions below:

"Well, old man," repeated the Governor, "tell me the truth: who has been digging under the wall?"

i. Who is the speaker?
Ans: The speaker is the Governor (a prison official).

ii. Who is the speaker talking to?
Ans: The speaker is talking to Aksionov.

iii. Who does “they” refer to?
Ans: “They” refers to the group of prisoners suspected of trying to escape.

d. What does the author’s use of dialect like soja and katakata add to the story?

Ans: The use of Nigerian dialect adds cultural authenticity and local flavor. It immerses the reader in the setting and gives the characters a realistic voice. It also highlights post-war Nigerian identity and social conditions.

e. Why do you think the thieves speak English with a heavier African accent than Jonathan does?

Ans: The thieves likely come from a less-educated or more rural background. Their heavier accent distinguishes them from Jonathan and emphasizes their crude and threatening nature in contrast to Jonathan’s composed personality.

f. Is the title “Civil Peace” appropriate, or would “Civil War” be better? Explain.

Ans: The title “Civil Peace” is appropriate but ironic. It contrasts with the ongoing fear, crime, and instability after the war. The ‘peace’ is filled with civil unrest and struggle, making it not much different from the war itself.

a. How would you describe the civil peace in Nigeria?

Ans: Civil peace in Nigeria was unstable and insecure. Though the war had ended, the nation suffered from corruption, poverty, and lawlessness. People had to rely on their strength and faith to survive in difficult circumstances.

b. What kind of attitude towards life would you have if you were in Jonathan’s situation?

Ans: I would try to maintain a hopeful and thankful attitude like Jonathan. I would focus on what I still have and find ways to rebuild, rather than mourning losses. Faith, adaptability, and optimism would be key to survival.

c. Draw the character sketch of Jonathan Iwegbu.

Ans: Jonathan Iwegbu is a wise, optimistic, and hardworking man. After the war, he rebuilds his life through faith, effort, and gratitude. He doesn’t dwell on misfortune but finds happiness in small blessings. His calm reaction to loss reflects deep strength and belief in God’s plan.