Different Periods of Philippine Literature

Summary

This video lecture provides an insightful overview of Philippine literature, tracing its evolution from pre-colonial oral traditions to the modern period. It explores key literary periods, including the Spanish colonization, the nationalistic movements, and the American and Japanese occupations, showing how literature reflected the country’s historical shifts. The lecture highlights the importance of studying local literature to understand cultural heritage and identity. Additionally, it emphasizes the rich diversity of regional literary traditions, such as Bikolano literature, and the impact of notable Filipino writers and works in shaping global literary thought.

Takeaways

• 😀 Literature is a reflection of human experiences, including emotions, thoughts, and societal interactions.
• 😀 The term 'literature' originates from the Latin 'litera,' meaning acquaintance with letters, and includes both written and oral forms.
• 😀 Literature can be classified into structure (fiction vs. non-fiction), form (prose vs. poetry), and genre (e.g., comedy, drama, mystery).
• 😀 Pre-colonial Philippine literature was primarily oral, including epics, legends, and folklore passed down through generations.
• 😀 During the Spanish colonization, literature became centered on religious themes, reflecting Catholic influences and Spanish traditions.
• 😀 The nationalistic period (Propaganda and Revolutionary movements) used literature to expose the evils of Spanish rule and advocate for independence.
• 😀 The American colonial period led to the introduction of English in literature, but this period was marked by imitation of American literary forms.
• 😀 During the Japanese occupation, the ban on English led to the revitalization of Filipino-language literature, fostering new creative expressions.
• 😀 The post-war and contemporary periods saw a resurgence in Filipino literature, with writers addressing social, political, and ethnic issues.
• 😀 Regional literature, such as Bicolano literature, flourished, preserving local customs, dialects, and cultural traditions specific to each region.
• 😀 Philippine literature is intertwined with the country’s history and evolution, with each literary period reflecting the changing political and social landscapes.

Q & A

What is the definition of literature according to the script?

Literature is derived from the Latin term 'litera,' meaning acquaintance with letters. It encompasses both written and spoken forms, including books, songs, and oral traditions. It reflects human experiences, thoughts, and emotions.

How is literature classified in the script?

Literature is classified according to structure, form, and genre. By structure, it is divided into fiction (imagined stories) and non-fiction (factual works). In terms of form, it can be prose (ordinary language) or poetry (artistic language). Genres include comedy, drama, horror, and mystery.

Why is it important to study Philippine literature?

Studying Philippine literature helps preserve the country's cultural heritage, history, and ancestral beliefs. It connects the present generation with past experiences and promotes a deeper understanding of national identity.

How does literature relate to history according to the script?

Literature is intertwined with history, with literary works representing historical events in artistic form. While history deals with facts, literature reflects human experiences, emotions, and societal contexts that shape these events.

What distinguishes fiction from non-fiction in literature?

Fiction refers to literary works that are imagined, involving created plots, settings, and characters. Non-fiction, on the other hand, deals with factual stories based on real events and actual people.

What was the impact of the Spanish colonization on Philippine literature?

During the Spanish colonization, literature focused on the Christian faith, with works centered on saints, hymns, and religious themes. Literary forms included prayers, biographies, and religious novels, heavily influenced by Spanish traditions.

What were the main goals of the Propaganda and Revolutionary movements in Philippine literature?

The Propaganda movement aimed for reforms under Spanish rule, using literature to expose the abuses of the colonial government. The Revolutionary movement, led by figures like Andres Bonifacio, demanded complete independence from Spain through more violent means.

How did the American colonial period affect Philippine literature?

During the American period, English became widely used, and Filipino writers often imitated American literary models. This period saw a shift in writing style, though it also led to significant advancements in education and culture.

What was the effect of the Japanese occupation on Philippine literature?

The Japanese occupation led to the restriction of English writing, prompting Filipino writers to turn to their native languages, particularly Filipino. This shift renewed attention to Filipino literature and fostered creativity in native forms.

What is regional literature, and how is Bicolano literature an example of this?

Regional literature refers to literary works that focus on the unique dialects, customs, and lifestyles of specific regions. Bicolano literature, for example, reflects the culture and history of the Bicol region, using oral traditions and poetry like the 'Takesik' to address social issues.