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.