Write at least two paragraphs of at least 5 sentences each for each question when answering Questions 1 and 2. To support your statements, incorporate into the paragraphs at least one quotation from each story presented in the question.
1. Both "Nectar in a Sieve" and "Shooting an Elephant" explore the impact of external forces on individuals within their respective societal contexts. Compare and contrast the ways in which the characters in the two works respond to external pressures and navigate the challenges imposed by their environments. Consider the effects on their personal lives, relationships, and sense of identity. How do Rukmani in "Nectar in a Sieve" and the narrator in "Shooting an Elephant" grapple with societal expectations and the consequences of resisting or succumbing to external pressures? Use specific examples from each text to support your analysis.
2. In Doris Lessing's "No Witchcraft for Sale" and Chinua Achebe's "Marriage is a Private Affair," cultural traditions and societal expectations play significant roles in shaping the characters' decisions and relationships. Compare and contrast the ways in which cultural norms and family traditions impact the characters' lives in both stories. How do the characters navigate between tradition and personal desires, and what consequences do they face as a result? Provide specific examples from each story to illustrate your points.