Historical Evolution of PH Literature

Pre-colonial Literature

before the arrival of the Spaniards (1565). Has no printing press, literature was mostly spoken, and stories were shared through memory.

Oral Tradition

is the practice of passing literature through speaking, chanting, singing, or storytelling instead of writing it down.

Riddle

Proverbs

Epics recited by elders

Folk Songs

Legends

TYPES of Oral Tradition

Riddle

is a statement, question, or phrase presented as a puzzle to be solved. Challenges a person’s critical thinking and imagination.

Proverbs

wise sayings that teach lessons and proper values. Making good decisions and living responsibly.

Epics recited by Elders

long, narrative poems that tell the adventures of heroes.

Folk Songs

express the everyday lives, occupation, traditions, and emotions of Filipinos.

Legends

traditional stories that explain the origin of places, plants, animals, or natural phenomena.

Culture 

Language 

History 

Belief 

Tradition

Why is Oral Tradition Important?

Community Owned Literature

refers to literary work that belongs to the entire community or tribe instead of one. Shared and improved over time by many people.

Tribal Legends

Folk Tales

Origin Myths

Community Songs

Traditional Chants

TYPES of Community Owned Literature

Tribal Legends

are traditional stories passed down within a tribe or ethnic group.

Folk Tales

are fictional stories created to entertain while teaching lessons.

Origin Myths

explain how the world, people, animals, plants, or natural disasters come into existence according to the beliefs of early Filipinos.

Community Songs

are traditional songs sung by groups during farming, fishing, celebrations, weddings, festivals, and other community activities.

Traditional Chants

are rhythmic spoken or sung verses performed during rituals, ceremonies, weddings, harvests, healing practices, or celebrations.

Shared by everyone 

Passed to everyonе 

Preserved by everyone 

Changed slightly over generations

Why was it Community Owned?