Philippine Literary History – Key Concepts

Question-and-answer flashcards covering definitions, timelines, key figures, and thematic shifts in Philippine literary history.

What is a literary period?

A span of time that shares common intellectual, linguistic, religious, and artistic influences.

Which forms dominated Philippine literature during the Pre-colonial Period (BCE-1564)?

Oral forms such as myths, legends, epics, folk songs, and riddles.

What major religion was introduced to the Philippines during the Spanish-Colonial Period (1565-1898)?

Christianity.

Which European literary form became prominent in the Philippines under Spanish rule?

Poetry.

What key factor sparked the rise of Filipino nationalism in the late Spanish period?

Abuses of the Spanish colonial system coupled with the spread of education.

Name two notable figures who fueled Filipino nationalism during Spanish rule.

José Rizal (novelist critical of Spanish rule) and Andrés Bonifacio (founder of the Katipunan).

What were two notable uprisings against Spanish authority in the Philippines?

The Dagohoy Rebellion and the Katipunan Revolution.

In what years did Spanish rule in the Philippines effectively end?

1896-1898.

During the American-Colonial Period (1900-1941), which language became dominant in Philippine literature?

English.

Which new poetic form emerged in Philippine literature during the American period?

Free verse.

How did World War II affect Philippine literary themes?

It shifted focus to suffering, displacement, and the struggle for survival.

What themes characterize the Contemporary Period of Philippine literature?

Globalization, social issues, identity, and realism.

Provide a brief description of Philippine literary history as a whole.

It is a rich and complex narrative shaped by diverse cultural influences from pre-colonial oral traditions to contemporary works.