Overview
The lecture covers the history and key developments of Philippine literature from the pre-colonial period to the 21st century, highlighting major literary periods, notable texts, and important authors from various Philippine regions.
Philippine Literary History: Pre-Colonial to Contemporary
- Pre-colonial literature included folk tales, epics (long narrative poems about heroes), and folk songs (often 12 syllables per line).
- The native script, Baybayin (Alibata), existed before Spanish colonization but was later replaced by the Roman alphabet.
- Spanish period literature featured religious and secular prose/poetry, influenced by Christian doctrine and European traditions.
- American regime introduced English as a medium of instruction; literature was written in Spanish, Tagalog, and regional dialects, with English writers emulating American styles.
- Japanese occupation restricted English-language writing and promoted Tagalog literature; poetry themes included nationalism, religion, and rural life.
- The activism period (1970-1972) saw youth-driven literary protest and calls for reform.
- The New Society period (1972-1980) emphasized native culture and positive news in literature and media.
- The Third Republic (1981-1985) highlighted romantic and revolutionary themes.
- Post-EDSA Revolution (1986-1995) brought press freedom and literature reflecting current issues and the people's regained independence.
- 21st-century literature features ICT-based formats, new lingo, and contemporary themes for modern readers.
Representative Texts and Authors from Philippine Regions
- Ilocos Region: "Gabu" (describes restless coastline), Leona Florentino (national poetess), Pedro Bukaneg (father of Ilocano literature), Francisco Lopez (translated Doctrina Christiana to Ilocano).
- Region 2: Ines Taccad Cammayo (award-winning writer), Fernando Maramag (poet and journalist).
- Region 3: Aniceto Pascual ("Juan Mata"), Maria Garcia (folktale narrator).
- Region 4: Manuel Reyes (folktales), Jose Rizal ("Legend of Maria Makiling").
- Region 5: Mariano Perfecto (father of Bikol literature), Merito B. Sinense ("Ibalon" epic).
- Region 6: Known for myths, riddles (Paktakon), and proverbs (Puruhán).
- Region 7: Vicente Sotto (father of Cebuano literature, wrote "Maming").
- Region 8: Clodualdo del Mundo (poet, "An Kanya").
- NCR: Short stories and poems by Aurelio Alvero, Nick Joaquin, and Jose Garcia Villa.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Baybayin (Alibata) — ancient Filipino script used before Spanish colonization.
- Epic — long narrative poem detailing heroic deeds.
- Folk Song — traditional song reflecting early culture, often 12 syllables per line.
- Paktakon — a riddle from Western Visayas.
- Puruhán — a proverb from Western Visayas.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review regional texts and authors discussed.
- Write a close analysis and critical interpretation of a regional literary text.
- Reflect on how Philippine texts address social, political, and moral issues.