Philippine Literature Quiz: Pre-Colonial Period

Philippine literature originated during pre-colonial times as diverse ethnic cultures developed.
Key literary forms included riddles, proverbs, folk tales, and songs, reflecting the values and customs of different communities.
Riddles: Metaphorical questions used as a form of entertainment and wisdom to engage listeners.
Proverbs: Wise sayings often shared by elders, conveying important life lessons.
Folk tales: Comprising epics, myths, legends, and fables that encapsulate cultural narratives.
Folk Songs: Included lullabies (local term "Hele"), drinking songs (known as "Tagay"), love songs (referred to as "Harana"), songs of death, and religious songs.

Spanish colonization introduced the Roman alphabet, replacing the earlier Albita script.
Doctrina Christiana: The first book printed in the Philippines in 1593, serving as a guide to Catholic practices.
Religious Literature: Derived from Ladino poets, incorporating both Spanish and Tagalog to educate Filipinos in the language.
Pasyon: A crucial form of religious poetry narrating the life and sufferings of Jesus Christ, traditionally sung during Lent.
Senakulo: A dramatization of the Pasyon highlighting the passion and death of Christ.
Secular Literature: Flourished alongside religious texts; marked by the rise of the ilustrados (educated middle class).
Awit: Colorful tales of chivalry intended for performance through singing.
Sarswela: Spanish musical plays incorporating spoken dialogue, songs, and dances.
Komedya: A traditional Filipino theatrical performance adapted from Spanish comedia, often spectacle-driven.

The emergence of the ilustrados contributed to a new literary paradigm focused on secular themes.
José de la Cruz (Huseng Sisiw): Notable for his piece "O Caauaauang Buhay Co sa Iba".
Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar: Known for "Labindalawang Sugat ng Puso," a significant work in literature.
The 19th century reformist movement marked a critical shift in literary expression, with writers confronting the realities of colonization.
José Rizal: A pivotal figure in Philippine literature, recognized for both poetry and prose that highlighted the struggles of the oppressed Filipinos.