Philippine Literature: Pre-Colonial Period

What symbols did the Alibata (baybayin) script consist of?

Which of the following best describes a fable?

What is a common theme found in legends?

Which genre employs riddles as a form of literature?

What purpose does a proverb serve in literature?

Which of the following is used in witchcraft or enchantment?

What medium did early Filipinos NOT use for writing?

Which of these is an example of a folk narrative?

Philippine Literature Overview

Pre-colonial literature was characterized by oral traditions, intended to amuse and entertain.
Early written forms utilized materials like clay, tree bark, leaves, and bamboo tubes, inscribed with sharp instruments and ink derived from tree saps and soot.
The Alibata (baybayin) script featured 17 symbols: 3 vowels and 14 consonants.

Folk Narratives

Myths: Traditional stories about heroes or supernatural beings that seek to explain natural phenomena or human behavior. Example: Visayan Creation Myth.
Legends: Narratives focused on the origins of a location, object, or name. Example: Legend of Mayon Volcano.
Fables: Short, allegorical tales with moral lessons, often featuring animal characters. Example: The Monkey and the Crocodile.

Early Poetry

Riddles (Bugtong o Palaisipan): Short, puzzling statements encouraging wit and problem-solving. Example: "Bungbong kung iiwanag, Kung gabi ay dagat."
Proverbs: Brief expressions conveying wisdom accumulated from life experiences. Example: "Nahangad ng kagitna isang salop ang Nawala."
Chants (Bulong): Utilized in rituals, such as witchcraft or enchantment.
Sayings (Kasabihan): Phrases often used for teasing or commenting on someone's actions.

This quiz explores the rich oral traditions and early writing methods of Philippine literature during the Pre-Colonial period. Delve into the unique literary forms and materials used by early Filipinos, as well as the significance of the Alibata script. Test your knowledge of this fascinating era in Philippine literary history.