Pre-Colonial and Colonial Philippine Literature

Study Notes

Characterized by folk tales, epics, and folk songs reflecting everyday life, culture, and moral lessons.
Folk tales: Narrative stories filled with adventure, humor, and horror, examples include "The Moon and the Sun."
Epic Age: Long narrative poems celebrating heroic achievements, often centered on a central hero.
Folk songs: One of the oldest forms, showcasing various cultural influences; often consist of 12 syllables. Examples include Kundiman, Kumintang, and Oyayi.

Recreation plays, primarily poetic forms such as Cenaculo, Panunuluyan, Salubong, and Zarzuela were popular.

Ilustrados: 19th-century Filipino intellectuals educated in Europe, instrumental in addressing colonial issues.
The Propaganda Movement (1872-1896): Led by middle-class intellectuals, including Jose Rizal, Marcelo del Pilar, and Graciano Lopez Jaena.
Rizal’s notable works: "Noli Me Tangere," "Mi Ultimo Adios," and essays critiquing colonialism.
Del Pilar's writings: "Pagibig sa Tinubuang Lupa" and "Dasalan at Tocsohan."
Jaena’s contributions include "Ang Fray Botod" and "Sa mga Pilipino."

Literary works during this time are categorized into religious (prose and poetry) and secular (prose and poetry).

The first Filipino alphabet, ALIBATA, later replaced by the Roman alphabet.
Christian Doctrine teaching became foundational for religious practices.
European legends and traditions influenced local literature, manifesting in songs, corridos, and moro-moros.

The introduction of the English language reshaped Filipino literature and writing styles.
Jose Garcia Villa gained recognition for his innovative use of free verse.
Characteristics of literature evolved during this period with a strong emphasis on English language usage.