Overview
The lecture covered the historical progression and key developments in Philippine literature through the American, Japanese, and Contemporary periods, emphasizing notable themes, major events, and significant writers.
Review of Past Lessons
- Philippine literature helps us take pride in our heritage, understand traditions, and trace our cultural history.
- The basic timeline of Philippine literature: Precolonial, Spanish Colonial, American Regime, Japanese Colonial, and Contemporary periods.
- The Propaganda Movement was the first Filipino nationalist movement led by Filipino heroes through books and newspapers.
- "Conquistadores" refers to Spanish invaders, soldiers, and explorers seeking new territories.
- During the Spanish colonial era, religious themes dominated literature, but traditional Tagalog poetry remained prominent.
Literature During the American Regime
- American regime (1898-1944) introduced English as the main literary language and school instruction.
- The Thomasites (group of 600 American teachers) established the school system and taught in English.
- Key features included freedom of expression, the rise of writers' organizations, and literary awards.
- Literary periods: Re-orientation (1898-1910, focus on English), Imitation (1910-1924, modeled after American/British works), Self-discovery and Growth (writers confidently wrote about diverse themes).
- Notable writer: Fernando Maramag (editorial writer).
Literature During the Japanese Period
- Japanese occupation (1942-1945) halted English literary development; publications were censored.
- Japanese discouraged the use of English and restricted freedom of speech.
- Literary themes centered on survival, brutality, poverty, and heroism.
- Poetry forms like Haiku (5-7-5 syllable structure) and 7-7-7 verse emerged, focusing on nature and deeper emotions.
- Many plays were adapted from English to Tagalog; short stories grew in prominence.
- Notable writer: N.V.M. Gonzalez.
Post-War and Modern Periods
- "Rebirth of Freedom" (1946 onward) restored independence and spurred new literary themes: religious faith, superstitions, fantasy, social problems, nationalism, poverty, and politics.
- Rapid rise in journalistic writing and new publications, especially after Martial Law (1972).
- Literary examples: "Heart of the Islands" by Manuel Viray; "Philippine Cross-Section" by Maximo Ramos.
Martial Law and Third Republic Era
- Martial Law (1972) led to the temporary closing of school publications and restriction of press freedom.
- Literature emphasized discipline, social transformation, and cultural pride.
- Award-giving bodies like the Carlos Palanca Awards continued to recognize outstanding works.
- Third Republic (after 1981) saw themes of romance, revolution, criticism of government, poverty, and national aspiration.
- Filipino films, annual festivals, and new forms of creative expression became popular.
Contemporary Period
- The contemporary period highlights people power, revolutionary themes, modern songs, media, and literature reflecting current social issues.
- 21st-century literature often features new forms and focuses on Filipino identity and modern experiences.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Thomasites — American teachers who established the English-based Philippine school system.
- Haiku — Japanese poetic form with a 5-7-5 syllable structure.
- Martial Law — Period of government control with suspended rights and press freedom (1972-1981).
- Carlos Palanca Awards — Prestigious awards for excellence in Philippine literature.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review class notes on key periods and themes of Philippine literature.
- Read assigned texts or poems from each literary period.
- Prepare for a quick assessment on next meeting.