GROUP 1- SEQUENCE 1 (Philippine Literature During the American Colonization)
Introduction
Overview of the American colonization of the Philippines (1898-1946).
The Americans defeated Spaniards in the Spanish-American War, resulting in the Treaty of Paris.
American colonization began in 1898 and ended in 1946, lasting almost fifty years.
Influence on Literature
The Influence of American culture and education on Philippine literature.
Introduction of free public instruction for all children of school age.
Use of English as a medium of instruction in all levels of public schools.
Shift in Literary Medium
Shift from Spanish to English as the medium of literary expression.
Following the influx of American influence, writers began to use English.
English became the medium of instruction and the preferred language among the intellectual elite.
Transition to English Literature
Introduction of Public Schools:
Americans introduced a public school system in the Philippines after colonization.
English became the main teaching language.
In 1901, the Thomasites (a group of American teachers) came to train Filipino teachers, spreading English.
The Spread of English
English gradually replaced Spanish in schools and public life.
Filipino writers began writing in English, even as it was initially foreign to them.
By the 1920s and 1930s, English-language literature flourished in the Philippines.
Emergence of Filipino Writers
Emergence of Filipino Writers Using English:
Writers began using English as they gained proficiency despite initial challenges.
They expressed local experiences, cultures, and issues using English.
Recognition of Filipino Writers
By the 1920s and 1930s, writers like Carlos P. Romulo, Nick Joaquin, and Jose Garcia Villa gained recognition.
Their works explored themes such as nationalism, identity, and social issues in the Philippines.
English allowed Filipino writers to reach a broader, both local and international, audience.
Common Literary Themes - Patriotism and Nationalism
Many Filipino writers focused on themes of patriotism and nationalism during American colonization.
They expressed love for their country and the desire for freedom from foreign rule.
Preservation of Filipino Culture
Writers emphasized preserving Filipino culture and identity under American control.
Many works illustrated Filipinos' struggles for independence and sovereignty.
Social Criticism and Commentary
Social Criticism of Colonial Rule:
Many writers criticized social and political conditions under American rule.
Issues of inequality, exploitation, and injustice were highlighted.
Protest Literature
Literature served as a tool for protest and social change.
Through various forms, writers expressed desires for a just society and called for reform.
Stories of Life Under American Influence
Stories depicted how life transformed under American rule.
Writers explored cultural conflicts and identity challenges in their narratives.
Themes of struggle to maintain Filipino identity amidst American influences emerged.
Literary Forms - Poetry
Poetry in English and Vernacular Languages:
Became key literary forms, expressing themes of nationalism and struggles during colonial life.
Vernacular Poetry
Vernacular poetry helped preserve Filipino culture and reflect local issues.
Both forms captured identity, freedom, and justice themes while intertwining Western influences with Filipino values.
Short Stories, Novels, and Plays
Popularity of Short Stories:
Explored themes of identity, colonial experiences, and struggles for freedom.
Novels and plays highlighted social realities and inspired contemplation on Filipino life.
Journalism and Essays
Role of Journalism during the American Period:
Writers used newspapers/magazines to address social and political issues.
Essays critiqued colonial policies and promoted Filipino identity.
Notable Filipino Writers - Carlos P. Romulo
Prominent Writer:
A diplomat and journalist known for work during WWII.
Famous Work of Carlos P. Romulo
"I Am a Filipino": An essay expressing national pride.
Notable Writer - Paz Marquez Benitez
Short-story writer and educator.
Famous Work: "Dead Stars": The first modern Philippine short story in English focusing on forbidden love.
Notable Writer - Zoilo Galang
Credited as a pioneering Filipino writer in English.
Famous Work: "A Child of Sorrow": The first English novel by a Filipino.
Notable Writer - Jose Garcia Villa
Known for innovative poetry.
Famous Works: "The Anchored Angel", "The Emperor's New Sonnet", "Footnote to Youth".
Contributions to Philippine Literature
Establishment of Literary Standards:
English became the primary medium of education in Philippine literature during the American period.
Influence of Thomasites
Arrival of Thomasites in 1901 shaped early writers.
Newspapers and institutions helped establish literary standards.
Preservation of Filipino Identity
Literature preserved Filipino identity through social issues, customs, and traditions written in English.
Emphasis on cultural identity and nationhood amidst the language barrier.
Impact of American Influence - Positive Effects
Expansion of literary genres and exposure to global trends.
Introduction of modern forms like free verse and critical essays.
Avenues for Filipino Writers
Opening of new avenues for writers influenced by English instruction and adoption.
Modern Literary Techniques
Introduction of modern literary styles underlined individuality and craft.
Criticisms and Challenges
Concerns about cultural imperialism highlighting loss of native identity.
Tension Between Languages
Shift towards English created a hierarchy that diminished the status of indigenous languages.
Lasting Influence
Continuing use of English in Philippine literature allows writers to engage with global trends.
Role of English in Education
English's significance in the Philippine educational system as a medium of instruction.
Bilingual Literary Tradition
Development of a tradition where writers produced works in both English and native languages.