IB English HL Paper 2 Practice

For IB English Language & Literature HL Paper 2, students are expected to write a comparative essay on at least two literary works studied in the course. Given "A Doll's House" by Henrik Ibsen and "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi as the texts for comparison, here is a practice question that prompts deep analysis and critical thinking, integrating themes, character development, and the authors' purposes:

Practice Question:

Explore the theme of rebellion against societal norms. In your essay, consider the motivations behind the characters' rebellions, the consequences they face, and the authors' perspectives on the societies they critique.

Approach to the Question:

Introduction:

• Briefly introduce "A Doll's House" and "Persepolis," highlighting their respective settings: late 19th-century Norway and revolutionary Iran.

• State the thesis that both works use personal rebellion to critique societal norms and expectations, albeit in different cultural contexts.

Main Body:

• Character Motivations:

  • In "A Doll's House," Nora's rebellion is sparked by her realisation of her subservient role in her marriage and the paternalistic society that limits her independence and identity.

  • In "Persepolis," Marjane's rebellion stems from her desire for freedom of expression and her opposition to the oppressive regime that restricts the rights of its citizens, especially women.

• Consequences Faced:

  • Nora faces societal ostracisation and the personal upheaval of leaving her family to find independence, highlighting the cost of challenging societal norms.

  • Marjane deals with the dangers of political activism in a repressive society, including the risk of imprisonment and the pain of exile, underscoring the personal stakes of political rebellion.

• Authors' Perspectives:

  • Ibsen presents a critical view of the patriarchal society, emphasising the need for individual freedom and the reevaluation of traditional marital roles.

  • Satrapi uses her personal story to criticise both the Shah's regime and the Islamic Republic, showcasing the impact of political tyranny on individual lives and the spirit of resistance within oppressive societies.

Conclusion:

• Synthesise the main points, reaffirming how both "A Doll's House" and "Persepolis" offer insights into the complexities of rebelling against societal norms.

• Reflect on the broader implications of the texts, considering what they reveal about the universal struggle for personal autonomy and the courage required to challenge entrenched societal expectations.

This question encourages a comparative analysis that not only focuses on the thematic parallels between the two works but also appreciates their unique cultural and historical contexts. It offers an opportunity to explore the nuanced ways in which literature reflects and critiques societal norms through the lens of individual rebellion.