21ST CENTURY LITERATURE

Literature

Derived from the Latin word 'litera', meaning 'letters', literature encompasses works with literary merits that convey the writer's attitudes.

Theory of Literature

Wellek and Austin's theory that defines literature based on its artistic merit and the communication of the speaker's attitude.

Henry van Dyk's Definition of Literature

Literature interprets the meanings of nature and life with charm, power, and the author's personality.

Creative Act

Rene Wellek describes literature as both an artistic and creative expression.

Literature of Knowledge

A form of literature characterized by its ability to teach others.

Literature of Power

The type of literature that can inspire action and instigate change in readers.

Milagros Tanlayco's Definition of Literature

Literature is a record of man's thoughts and experiences presented in an expressive manner.

Permanence

The quality of literature that allows it to endure time across culture, gender, and history.

Artistry

The technical composition and aesthetic value of a literary work.

Intellectual Value

Literature that provokes thought and invites active reader participation.

Suggestive Value

The capacity of literature to elicit emotional responses from the readers.

Style

Refers to the unique expression of the writer reflected in their writing technique.

Spiritual Value

The ability of literature to inspire and elevate the reader's spirit.

Universality

A feature of literature that allows it to be relatable across diverse cultures and time.

Pre-Spanish Literature

Characterized by legends, folktales, epics, folk songs, and proverbs, indicating rich oral traditions.

Legend

A prose form explaining the origin of a place or name, often imaginary.

Folktales

Made-up stories reflecting a community's values and experiences, passed down orally.

Epic

A long narrative poem celebrating heroic deeds and cultural ideals.

Folk Songs

The oldest form of Philippine literature, reflecting early cultural expressions.

Epigrams

Witty and wise stanzas found in folklore.

Proverbs

'Salawikain', which serve as guidelines for good behavior.

Spanish Period Influences

Introduction of the Roman Alphabet and Catholicism, significantly affecting Philippine literature.

Doctrina Cristiana

The first book printed in the Philippines, in both Spanish and Tagalog.

University of Santo Tomas

Established in 1611 as the first university in the Philippines.

Period of Enlightenment (1872-1898)

Marked by nationalistic writings demanding freedom from Spanish rule.

Noli Me Tangere

A novel by Jose Rizal that fueled the propaganda movement for reform.

El Filibusterismo

The sequel to Noli Me Tangere, focusing on political corruption.

Marcelo H. Del Pilar

An influential figure in Philippine literature, also known as Plaridel.

Graciano Lopez Jaena

Founded La Solidaridad, an influential publication advocating for reforms.

American Regime (1898-1941)

Characterized by contributions from Spanish, Tagalog, and English writers.

Cecilio Apostol

A poet known for works dedicated to national heroes.

Paz Marquez Benitez

Celebrated for her short story 'Dead Stars'.

Manuel Arguilla

Known for his short stories that reflect Filipino rural life.

Japanese Period (1941-1945)

Writers shifted to local languages due to censorship.

Haiku

A Japanese poem of 17 syllables, reflecting nature and emotion.

Tanaga

A type of poem similar to Haiku but with measures and rhyme.

The Rebirth of Freedom (1946-1970)

Post-liberation era marked by an increased confidence in expression.

Palanca Awards

Established in the 1950s to inspire writers and recognize literary excellence.

Period of Activism (1970-1972)

Youth-driven reforms reflected in literature, marked by social upheaval.

Martial Law (1972)

Led to censorship and a change in the themes of Philippine literature.

Period of the Third Republic (1981-1985)

Voices for change emerged post-Aquino assassination.

Post EDSA Period (1986-present)

Saw significant changes in literature, reflecting societal transformations.

Genres of Literature

Categories of artistic work, divided into Prose, Poetry, and Drama.

Fiction

A genre that represents real-life experiences through imaginary narratives.

Novel

A long narrative work that usually has complex plots and character development.

Novella

A work of fiction shorter than a novel but longer than a short story.

Short Story

Brief fictional work, typically focusing on a single incident.

Myth

A narrative explaining natural phenomena or the origins of humanity.

Fable

Stories featuring animals that behave like humans, imparting moral lessons.

Parable

A story with a moral or religious lesson, often found in sacred texts.

Elements of Fiction

Components that make up a narrative, including characters, setting, and plot.

Protagonist

The main character whose journey propels the narrative forward.

Antagonist

A character opposing the protagonist, creating conflict.

Setting

The time and place within which the story unfolds.

Exposition

The background information and context of the narrative.

Rising Action

Events leading up to the climax and introducing conflicts.

Climax

The peak of tension in a story, determining its direction.

Falling Action

Events occurring after the climax leading to resolution.

Resolution/Denouement

The final outcome of a story, revealing any mysteries.

Theme

The central idea or message conveyed through the narrative.

Non-Fiction

A literary genre that represents factual accounts and real events.

Autobiography

A self-written account of the author’s life.

Biography

The account of a person's life written by someone else.

Essay

A written work focused on a specific topic, aiming to inform or convince.

Diary

A personal and informal record of daily experiences.

Journal

A log documenting events and reflections.