Philippine Literature: A Historical Overview

Study Notes

• The Philippines is a rich and sovereign country with a wealth of natural resources, history, culture, language, and literature. • Philippine literature has a rich background, even before colonization, with a tradition of oral literature. • The historical timeline of Philippine literature is divided into several periods, including the pre-colonial, Spanish, American, Japanese, and post-war eras. • Literature is defined as anything that reproduces life experiences, collecting and organizing the entirety of humanity, and occasionally adding more color to it. • Philippine literature is diverse and has evolved alongside the country's history, with a focus on pre-colonial cultural traditions and social-political histories. • The pre-colonial period saw the evolution of indigenous literature, based on traditions and customs of specific areas of the country, with each island having its own unique culture and traditions. • Ancient literatures were written on perishable materials like dried leaves, bamboo cylinders, and bark of trees, and were handed down through oral tradition. • Oral literature includes riddles, proverbs, folk songs, and folk tales, which include myths, legends, fables, and epics. • The Spanish period saw a shift in focus to Christian faith and stories about natural phenomena, with the introduction of new forms and themes in writing. • Filipino writers adapted Spanish literature to make it their own, creating unique forms such as corrido, pasyon, and zarzuela. • The 19th century saw a change in Filipino literature with the introduction of liberal ideas and internationalism, influencing writers like Jose Rizal and others. • The propaganda movement led to the formation of a national consciousness among Filipinos, resulting in the downfall of the Spanish regime and the planting of seeds for the Philippine revolution. • Revolutionary literature included satires, editorials, and news articles that aimed to attack the Spanish rule and spark revolution and resistance in the hearts of Filipinos. • The colonization of Spain did not deter the growth of Philippine literature, instead making it richer and more intricate. • The writings of Filipino writers, both pre-colonial and colonial, are a source of wisdom and knowledge for future generations.

Description

Explore the rich history and evolution of Philippine literature, from its pre-colonial roots to its modern forms. Learn about the different periods, themes, and writers that shaped the country's literary heritage. Discover the unique cultural traditions and social-political histories that have influenced Filipino literature over time.