Birds of Prey By: Amado V. Hernandez (Discussion)

Summary

In this video, Jin Simon Castillo and John Kevin analyze Amado Hernandez's novel, 'The Ravenous Bird,' which delves into the social and political issues in the Philippines during the 1950s. The story follows Andoy, a servant who escapes from the oppressive Don Montero, only to return as Mando Plaridel, a publisher seeking justice. The novel critiques neocolonialism, corruption, and capitalist exploitation, employing histobiographical and Marxist approaches to highlight post-war discrimination and class struggles.

Takeaways

• 📚 The story 'Or the Ravenous Bird' by Amado Hernandez reflects the social and political issues prevalent during his lifetime.
• 🎭 Amado Hernandez was a poet, playwright, and novelist known for his commitment to political art, which was a response to the neocolonialism and Western influence in the Philippines.
• 🏛 Hernandez was born in Manila, studied at the American Correspondent School, and began his writing career at a young age, contributing to a newspaper.
• 🔍 He was part of a literary society that included prominent Tagalog writers and was married to a renowned actress and singer.
• ✍️ Hernandez's notable works were written during his imprisonment, including a novel that serves as a sequel to Jose Rizal's 'Noli Me Tangere' and 'El Filibusterismo'.
• 🏭 The protagonist, Andoy, escapes from the oppressive Don Montero, changes his name to Mando Plaridel, and starts a publishing company to fight against corruption.
• 🌍 The story's setting spans Manila, Paris, USA, and Don Montero's Hacienda, showcasing the impact of neocolonialism and capitalism.
• 💼 Mando's publishing company, Campilan, faces government opposition, highlighting the struggle between freedom of expression and oppressive regimes.
• 🤝 Mando's relationships with Dolly Montero and Tata Matias are central to the narrative, showing personal connections amidst broader societal conflicts.
• 📈 The literary approaches of histobiographical and Marxism are used to analyze the story, emphasizing the post-war discrimination and class struggle in the Philippines.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the story 'The Ravenous Bird' by Amado Hernandez?

The main theme of 'The Ravenous Bird' is the social and political problems that were prevalent in the Philippines during the time of the author, including neocolonialism and the struggle against oppression and injustice.

Who is Amado Vera Hernandez and what is his background?

Amado Vera Hernandez is a Filipino poet, playwright, and novelist known for his committed or political art. He was born in Tondo, Manila, and was part of a literary society that included notable Tagalog writers. He was also politically active, serving as an intelligence officer during World War II and later as a counselor of Manila.

What significant event happened to Amado Hernandez in 1951?

Amado Hernandez was arrested on January 26, 1951, on suspicion of his writings and activities among the leaders of the Rebellion. It was during his imprisonment that he wrote his most notable works.

What is the significance of the character Mando Plaridel in the story?

Mando Plaridel, originally named Andoy, is a symbol of resistance against oppression. He changes his name and starts a publishing company to expose corruption and fight against the injustices perpetrated by figures like Don Montero.

How does the setting of the story 'The Ravenous Bird' contribute to its themes?

The story is set in Manila, Paris, USA, and Don Montero's Hacienda, which reflects the influence of Western powers and neocolonialism. These settings highlight the geographical and cultural contexts that shape the characters' experiences and the story's themes.

What literary approaches are used in 'The Ravenous Bird'?

The literary approaches used in 'The Ravenous Bird' include the histobiographical approach, which reflects on the historical and social conditions of the time, and the Marxist approach, which critiques capitalism and class-based discrimination.

What is the role of Tata Matias in the story?

Tata Matias is a character who provides refuge to Andoy after he escapes from Don Montero. His role is significant as it shows the support system that exists among the oppressed characters in the story.

How does the character Dolly Montero relate to Mando Plaridel?

Dolly Montero is the daughter of Don Montero, the antagonist. Her relationship with Mando Plaridel becomes complicated when she discovers his true identity and his intentions to expose her father's corruption.

What is the significance of the publishing company Campilan in the story?

Campilan, the publishing company founded by Mando Plaridel, is significant as it serves as a platform for him to voice his criticisms against corruption and injustice, particularly targeting the government and figures like Don Montero.

How does the story 'The Ravenous Bird' reflect the author's own experiences and beliefs?

The story reflects Amado Hernandez's own experiences with political activism and his commitment to social justice. His personal encounters with government repression and his views on neocolonialism are mirrored in the narrative and the characters' struggles.

What is the role of the character Don Montero in the story?

Don Montero is portrayed as an immoral businessman and the main antagonist. He represents the oppressive forces that Mando Plaridel fights against, symbolizing the exploitation and corruption prevalent in society.