Understanding Epic Poetry and Speculative Fiction

The 'Darangen' is a Maranao epic that highlights the themes of valor and nobility.

Creative nonfiction is characterized by the use of purely fictional narratives without any factual reporting.

Speculative fiction often includes mythical creatures and supernatural elements rooted in cultural narratives.

Nick Joaquin's 'The Woman Who Had Two Navels' explores social justice through magical realism.

'Trese' by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo is set in a historical context during the Spanish colonial period.

Epic Poetry

Rooted in the oral traditions of various indigenous and ethnic groups, reflecting communal histories and values.
"Darangen," a notable Maranao epic, celebrates heroism and supernatural themes, performed during important ceremonies.

Creative Nonfiction

Blends factual reporting with narrative techniques to explore real-life experiences and complexities of life.
"Dreamweavers" by Ma. Lourdes I. Cabangon is a collection of essays interlacing personal and cultural reflections, examining identity, tradition, and the challenges of Mindanaoans.

Speculative Fiction

Explores folklore and myths, incorporating supernatural elements such as mythical creatures and spirits into cultural narratives.
"The Woman Who Had Two Navels" by Nick Joaquin employs surrealism to examine the psychological and emotional impacts of historical and societal changes, set against a backdrop of Philippine culture.

Magical Realism

"The Woman Who Had Two Navels" (1956) merges mythology and folklore within post-war Philippine settings, addressing themes of identity, social justice, and the human condition.

Realist Fiction

"Noli Me Tangere" by José Rizal (1887) critiques Spanish colonialism, exploring themes of love, mortality, and social justice, reflecting social ills of the era.

Graphic Novels

"Trese" by Budjette Tan and Kajo Baldisimo integrates Filipino folklore with the modern urban fantasy genre, set in contemporary Manila, blending traditional supernatural elements with modern storytelling.

This quiz explores the rich traditions of epic poetry, focusing on its roots in oral storytelling among various indigenous and ethnic groups. Additionally, it delves into creative nonfiction that merges factual reporting with narrative techniques, as well as speculative fiction that incorporates folklore, myths, and supernatural elements. Participate to test your knowledge on these fascinating literary forms.