Overview
This lecture covers the development of Philippine literature, tracing its major periods from pre-colonial times to the 21st century, and emphasizing the influences of geography, language, and culture.
Literary Periods of Philippine Literature
- Philippine literature is shaped by historical events and foreign influences.
- There are 10 main literary periods: Pre-Spanish, Spanish, Period of Enlightenment, American, Japanese, Period of Literature in English, Period of Activism, New Society, Third Republic, Post-EDSA, and 21st Century.
Pre-Spanish Period
- Characterized by oral folklore: folktales, epics (long heroic poems), and folk songs (often in 12-syllable lines).
- Folklore reflected early Filipino life, beliefs, and customs.
Spanish Period
- Christianity and European ideals influenced literature, often replacing or altering native forms.
- Introduction of religious prose (e.g., Memorial de la Vida Christiana) and religious poetry (e.g., Pasyon).
- Emergence of secular works like the korido (e.g., Ibong Adarna) and recreational plays such as Senakulo.
Period of Enlightenment
- Marked by the Propaganda Movement led by ilustrados (e.g., Jose Rizal).
- Political essays and novels fueled revolutionary ideas and Filipino nationalism.
American Period
- English language introduced new literary forms: free verse poetry, modern short stories, and critical essays.
- Notable authors: Jose Garcia Villa ("art for art’s sake") and Salvador Lopez (advocating art with substance).
- Literature in regional languages continued via weekly magazines.
Japanese Period
- Literature in English was suppressed; themes focused on nationalism, rural life, and faith.
- Forms like haiku and tanaga (short native poems) emerged.
Period of Literature in English
- Strict Japanese prohibitions led to limited English literature, mostly journalism or propaganda.
- Nationalistic themes began to surface.
Period of Activism
- Youth-driven activism reflected in rebellious campus literature and anti-censorship writing.
- Writers protested social issues, martial law, and artistic restrictions.
Period of the New Society
- Focused on national progress, family, environment, and moral reform.
- Revival of dramas and plays; essays, debates, and poetry became prominent.
Period of the Third Republic
- Post-martial law era; literature featured romantic and revolutionary themes.
- Songs and poems depicted real-life issues like poverty, grief, and patriotism.
Post-EDSA and 21st Century Period
- Return to democracy led to diversity in literature, feminist themes, and non-traditional projects.
- Internet, awards (e.g., Palanca), and workshops encouraged new styles, lingos, and formats.
Timeline Quick Reference
- 1565: Pre-Spanish Period
- 1566–1871: Spanish Period
- 1872–1898: Period of Enlightenment
- 1898–1941: American Period
- 1941–1945: Japanese Period
Key Terms & Definitions
- Folktale — a traditional story reflecting culture, often teaching lessons.
- Epic — a long narrative poem about heroic deeds.
- Korido — a metrical romance in octosyllabic verse, often about chivalry and adventure.
- Pasyon — a religious narrative poem about Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.
- Haiku/Tanaga — short native poetry forms developed during the Japanese period.
- Propaganda Movement — a reform movement using literature to inspire nationalism.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Complete Task 1: Literary Timeline on page 5 of the module.
- Try Assessment 3: Song interpretation of "Ang Bayan Ko" on page 12.
- For homework: Do Assessment 1 (characteristics of pre-Spanish literature) on page 11.
- Write a reflection on the importance of understanding the development of Philippine literature.