21st Century Literature

from the Philippines

and the World
Quarter 1 – Module 1:
Introduction to Philippine
Literature
 Introductory Message
This Self-Learning Module (SLM) is prepared so that you, our dear learners, can continue
your studies and learn while at home. Activities, questions, directions, exercises, and
discussions are carefully stated for you to understand each lesson. Each SLM is composed
of different parts. Each part shall guide you step-by step as you discover and understand
the lesson prepared for you. Pre-tests are provided to measure your prior knowledge on
lessons in each SLM. This will tell you if you need to proceed on completing this module or if
you need to ask your facilitator or your teacher’s assistance for better understanding of the
lesson. At the end of each module, you need to answer the post-test to self-check your
learning. Answer keys are provided for each activity and test. We trust that you will be
honest in using these. In addition to the material in the main text, Notes to the Teacher are
also provided to our facilitators and parents for strategies and reminders on how they can
best help you on your home-based learning. Please use this module with care. Do not put
unnecessary marks on any part of this SLM. Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the
exercises and tests. And read the instructions carefully before performing each task. If you
have any questions in using this SLM or any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module,
do not hesitate to consult your teacher or facilitator.
Thank you.
 What I Need to Know
In general, this module aims to encourage the learners to appreciate and
critically study the various dimensions, genres, elements, structures, contexts, and
traditions of the 21st Century Literature from the Philippines. Moreover, the learners
are expected to show understanding and appreciation of 21st Century Philippine
literature from the regions by writing a close analysis and critical interpretation of
literary texts and by doing an adaptation using various multimedia platforms. As an
introductory part, Module 1 gives information on literature and its forms before
having an overview of Philippine literature.
The module covers only one topic, that is:
● Lesson 1 – Introduction to Philippine Literature
After going through this module, you are expected to:

MELC:
Write a close analysis and critical interpretation of literary texts and doing
an adaptation of these require from the learner the ability to identify:
(EN12Lit-Ib)
the geographic, linguistic, and ethnic dimensions of Philippine
literary history from pre-colonial to the contemporary
representative texts and authors from each region (e.g. engage in
oral history research with focus on key personalities from the students’
region/province/town)
Compare and contrast the various 21st century literary genres and the ones
from the earlier genres/periods citing their elements, structures and
traditions (EN12Lit-Id-25)

1. identify literature and its various genres, forms, elements, and traditions;
2. differentiate/compare and contrast the various 21st century literary genres
and the ones from the earlier genres/periods citing their elements, structures and traditions;
3. recognize the various influences that affect the type of literature produced in the
Philippines; and
4. express appreciation of literature by identifying its benefits through composition writing.
What I Know
Choose the letter of the best answer. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. What is the best definition of literature?
A. Literature covers both oral and written forms of works for expressive
and imaginative purposes.
B. Literature is limited to written materials that gain artistic merit for
human expression.
C. Literature is written solely to inform and persuade.
D. Literature is anything written and published.
2. Which genre of literature observes sounds and rhythms for aesthetic purpose
in expressing one's feelings, ideas, and beliefs?
A. Fiction
B. Non-fiction
C. Prose
D. Poetry
3. In which type of literature do legends, folktales, short stories, and any novels belong?
A. Art
B. Fiction
C. Non-fiction
D. Poetry
4. Which literary form refers to verses that depict extraordinary strength,
adventure, and heroism?
A. Epic
B. Fairy tale
C. Legend
D. Myth
5. What element of story is depicted in this given statement: "The King is very ill
and his sons rival each other in catching a bird"?
A. Character
B. Conflict
C. Setting
A. Theme
6. What is ca 6. What is called as the turning point in a story?
A. Climax
B. Denouement
C. Exposition
D. Plot
7. What element of plot is depicted in this given statement: "Everything changed
when she showed unparalleled strength and courage."?
A. Climax
B. Falling action
C. Resolution or denouement
D. Rising action
8. The famous work written by Dr. Jose P. Rizal entitled "El Filibusterismo"
reflects the daily experiences and struggles of our Filipinos during his time. In
which genre does it belong?
A. Drama
B. Non-fiction prose
C. Poetry
D. Prose fiction
9. What is most likely the theme of literary text during early Spanish period?
A. Equality
B. Nationalism
C. Nature
D. Religion and morality
10. Which period in the history of Philippine literature did the Spanish, American,
and Japanese come to our country?
A. Colonial Period
B. Period of Apprenticeship
C. Post-colonial Period
Lesson Exploring Philippine Literary Forms,
Genres, Elements, and Traditions
1

Philippine literature is as rich and diverse as the 7500 plus islands that make up our
archipelago. This is not surprising considering that we have 183 living languages
(ethnologue.com) across 17 regions comprised of 82 provinces. One can only imagine the
many forms of artistic communication (oral or written) that have been passed on to and
through generations, communities, and groups. Then and now, literature in the Philippines
have come in various genres (forms) and have been appreciated and analyzed for their
forms, elements, structures, and traditions.

What’s In
Write this in your Activity notebook.
If you were to write about something that pertains to the current condition of
the Philippines, what would be your topic or subject about? Discuss your
inspirations for choosing your topic. Answer in two to three sentences. Write your
answer on a separate sheet of paper.
What’s New
The origin of Philippine literature can only be traced by exploring its evolution
from pre-colonial up to the present. Thus, studying the past becomes imperative in
understanding the literature of the present. Different genres that appeared from each
period seem to reflect the place, language, culture, social and ethnic dimensions of
literature produced. The nature and essence of literature has evolved over time.
Traditionally, literature was strictly viewed as any form of written works especially
during the 18th century. Today, its definition and scope can be considered more
restrictive for there are certain standards set by some critiques before a work can be
considered as a body of literature. Among the common words used by scholars and
other sources that are associated to literature are excellence, expression, experience,
artistry, and imagination. Its connection to human life and experiences, wherein
audience can easily relate with, is the major characteristic of literature. Emerging
habitually into quality literary works will help us gain better understanding of people,
society, and culture.

WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND: As a result of colonization, it is common in almost all

countries who experienced oppression and inequality to reflect their rich experiences
in literature. If social media already existed from pre-colonial period up to Marcos
time and you lived in each era, what would be your social media status in each period
of history? Post your status in each period.

PERIOD SOCIAL MEDIA POST OR STATUS

PRE-COLONIAL (write in your activity notebook)
PERIOD
SPANISH (write in your activity notebook)
PERIOD
AMERICAN (write in your activity notebook)
PERIOD
JAPANESE (write in your activity notebook)
PERIOD
MARTIAL LAW (write in your activity notebook)
PERIOD
What is It
The term literature is derived from the Latin word "littera" which means "a letter of the
alphabet". According to the website Britannica, literature is traditionally defined as body of
written works associated to imaginative and creative works of poetry and prose and can be
classified according to variety of systems such as language, national origin, historical period,
genre and subject matter. Literature can either be in oral or written form. The oral literature
handed down from one generation to another, then later on transformed into written form.
The products of written literature are called literary text. A text can be considered literary if it
has the elements of psychological characterization and chronology. Also, literature uses
literary devices such as metaphor and symbolism. Reading for entertainment and learning is
the most common reason why people read literature. Simply, the best way to describe the
characteristics of literary text is that
(1) it narrates a story;
(2) it expresses feelings, thoughts, and ideas which can either be based from the
imagination or real life experiences of the author or other people; and
(3) it delivers significant information and crosses boundaries of time, places, cultures and
languages.
Also, literature contains specific structure. Literary structure refers to the organizational
method used in literature in which the most common type is the narrative. Parts of the
narrative structure (or plot) are the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and
resolution (denouement). In a much broader context, literary structure is not only limited to
content and form but this may also refer to "the general features or characteristic of genre,
style, a specific literary trend, literature as an art form, and finally, art as a whole" (The Great
Soviet Encyclopedia). For Murphy (n.d.), literary structure may involve arrangement of
various elements according to purpose, style, and genre to effectively convey the intended
meaning for the audience.
Two Major Forms of Literature
1. Poetry. This literary type is usually written in lines and is characterized by having the
element of rhythm, sound, imagery, and form. Its main purpose is to express feelings,
thoughts, and ideas. It can be divided into three types: narrative, dramatic, and lyrical poetry.
a. Narrative Poetry. This poetry tells a story and has the elements of a narrative such as
characters, setting, conflict, etc.
b. Dramatic Poetry. This is an emotionally appealing drama written in verse that tells a story
and is intended to be recited or sung in front of the audience by a character speaking in
poetry.
c. Lyric Poetry. It is the most common type of poetry that focuses on expressing feelings
rather than telling a story.
2. Prose. In contrast to poetry, this literary piece applies a natural flow of speech and
grammatical structures which are mainly consisting of complete sentences arranged logically
and sequentially in a paragraph form.
 a. Fiction. This serves as a product of the writer's wild imagination and creative thinking
where the characters react to the conflict and various issues central to the main idea of a
literary work. Its three types are: short story, novel, and novella. The main genres are crime,
fantasy, romance, science fiction, western, inspirational, historical fiction and horror.
b. Non-fiction. These are stories inspired by real events where the writers aim to present,
interpret, or describe experiences based on facts. The judgments, opinions, and
commentaries of the writers may be presented in the form of essays, journals, diaries,
feature articles, editorials, and the like.
Some Examples of Major Forms of Literature

POETRY PROSE

FICTION NON-FICTION
LYRIC Biography/
NARRATIVE DRAMATIC Short Story
Haiku Ode Autobiography
Epic Dramatic Elegy Novel Narrative Essay
Ballad Monologue Sonnet Memoir Diaries
Metrical Soliloquy Play
Song and Journal
Tales
Legend
Fable TION Short
Story Novel Play
Genre refers to the forms of literature. The general ones are oral and written. The main
Legend Fable
types are prose and poetry. There are many other forms that have sprung through the years.
Specifically, it is defined in the curriculum guide as something that “may be determined by
literary technique, tone, content, or even (as in the case of fiction) length. The distinctions
between genres and categories are flexible and loosely defined, often with subgroups. The
most general genres in literature are (in loose chronological order) epic, tragedy, comedy,
and creative nonfiction. They can all be in the form of prose or poetry. Additionally, a genre
such as satire, allegory or pastoral might appear in any of the above, not only as a sub-
genre, but as a mixture of genres. Finally, they are defined by the general cultural movement
of the historical period in which they were composed. Genre should not be confused with
age categories, by which literature may be classified as either adult, young-adult, or
children's. They also must not be confused with format, such as graphic novel or picture
book.” (Glossary, Curriculum Guide)
Literary elements refer “to particular identifiable characteristics of a whole text. They are
not “used,” per se, by authors; they represent the elements of storytelling which are common
to all literary and narrative forms. For example, every story has a theme, a setting, a conflict,
and has a particular point-of-view, etc. In order to be discussed legitimately as part of a
textual analysis, literary elements must be specifically identified for that particular text.”
(Glossary, Curriculum Guide). The common elements of a story are setting, character,
conflict, theme, point of view,
and plot. Plot also has its own elements such as exposition, rising action, climax, falling
action, and resolution or denouement /ˌdeɪˈnuːmɒ/. In poetry, there are four essential
elements: form, imagery, rhythm, and sound. Poetry comes in different forms such as
whether it is free verse, couplet, limerick, etc. Imagery on the other hand is the reason why
we see pictures in words and it adds color in any types of literature especially in poetry.
Rhythms and sounds are somehow similar. In fact, rhythm falls under the broad category
sound. While sound deals with the common use of rhymes and other literary devices such as
repetition (repeating of words, phrases, or lines), alliteration (repeating same consonant
sounds), assonance (repeating same vowel sounds), and onomatopoeia (the use of the
actual sound to represent someone or something), rhythm is more concerned with the flow
of the beat such as whether it is fast or slow. In general, both sounds and rhythms are the
key ingredients that give poetry a musical effect (Encyclopedia Britannica). The term
"Traditions" refers to the specific traits of literary works that define a generation or period in
history. A literary tradition “is a collection of works that have an underlying
interconnectedness and coherence that makes them more than simply a group of works
sharing geography or group. Irish poetry and drama, for example, extend over several
centuries, involving writers with a range of voices and preoccupations; and yet it is often
thought that they are distinctively "Irish." This means that you can have someone who
doesn't come from Ireland, perhaps doesn't even have Irish ancestors, but they can write in
the Irish Literary Tradition because they will draw on the same references, structure,
mythology, focal points for cultural meanings and historical moments.” (Glossary, Curriculum
Guide)
What’s More
Activity 1: An Overview of Philippine Literature
Historically speaking, Philippine literature can be divided into three most important periods:
pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial. All literary works produced before the Spanish
colonization such as chants, proverbs, songs, and folk narratives are considered under pre-
colonial period which are mostly of oral traditions. This is not because early Filipinos did not
have system of writing yet but due to the unavailability of printing materials. Life was simple
and so is literature during this period. If we have phones and other forms of technology to
entertain us, our ancestors had literature for recreation who were noted for being music lover
as more than 10 types of songs in various Philippine languages were discovered. Our
forefathers also valued words of wisdom for teaching values as evidenced by numerous
proverbs or salawikain. Story telling was used to explain phenomenon and to teach lessons
as well. Having bugtong or riddles was also a favorite past time and listening to narratives of
bravery, magic, and heroism in epics was a box office hit.
The focus of literature suddenly changed upon the arrival of Spaniards. An emphasis on
morality and religion was common in literary forms such as Corrido, Pasyon, and Cenaculo.
The production of printed materials started but it was mostly of religious purposes and
themes. It was made in an attempt to in still traditional Spanish ways and cultures among the
native Filipinos. Despite this indoctrination, native tradition still survived and flourished
especially for areas where the colonial power was less popular. Literacy paved the way to
develop sense of nationalism among Filipinos during the latter part of Spanish colonization.
Filipinos started to write about oppression, corruption, and other social ills such as in the
works of Dr. Jose P. Rizal entitled Noli Me Tangere and its sequel El Filibusterismo. The
literary production during the American Period was inspired by the developments in
education and culture. Knowledge and information became accessible to all Filipinos
because of the free public education.
During the apprenticeship period, the Filipino writers imitated English and American models.
All forms of literature were explored by Filipino writers. During this period, short stories were
the most prevalent literary form. With the new knowledge of English language, many writers
started to gain recognition both locally and internationally like Jose Garcia Villa who earned
the International title, “Poet of the Century" as an example.
Philippine Literature was interrupted in its development when we were conquered by Japan
between 1941-1945 since freedom of expression was uncommon back then. Filipino writers
in the Philippines were forbidden to write anything against the government and only those
who were in exile had the privilege to do so. As a result of banning the English language,
short stories written in the vernaculars flourished in the country. The three most influential
foreign invaders to the types of literature produced during colonial periods are Spanish,
American, and Japanese wherein the common themes and subject mostly tackle about
oppression, religion, freedom, or anything that reflects the experiences of Filipino people
under the colonizers. The influences brought to us by colonial periods are said to have been
extended up to the postcolonial periods especially in social and cultural dimensions. Post-
colonial is the period after the rebirth of freedom in the Philippines up to the present. One of
the most unforgotten and controversial periods during this era is having Martial Law during
the Marcos regime. All of the periods mentioned are essential towards understanding the
types of literature being produced in the Philippines.
ASSESSMENT 1a: What Have I learned so far? Answer the following questions.
1. Why is it important to learn about the pre-colonial literature of the Philippines?
2. How does the literature during the Spanish era differ from the literature during the pre-
colonial era?
3. Which era do you think has been able to exert its influences the most? Why?

ASSESSMENT 1b: Match the literary theme on SET A to the exact period when it
was written from SET B.
A. B.
1. sense of nationalism; oppression A. Pre-colonial Period
2. heroic deeds; nature; supernatural B. Early Spanish Period
3. morality; religion C. Revolutionary Period
4. poverty; injustice; activism; social issues D. American Period
5. longing for independence; E. Japanese Period
social justice and consciousness F. Post-colonial Period
ASSESSMENT 1c: Some famous literary works in the Philippines are listed below.
Identify to which type or genre each literary work belongs.

A. Myth B. Essay C. Short story

D. Novel E. Drama F. Epic

1. "Biag ni Lam-ang" anonymous

2. "Noli me Tangere" by Jose Rizal
3.
3. "What Is an Educated Filipino" by Francisco Benitez
"Biag ni Lam-ang" anonymous
4. "Footnote to Youth" by Jose Garcia Villa
"Noli me Tangere" by Jose Rizal
5. "How the World Began" anonymous
E. Drama
ASSESSMENT 1d: Look up literary traditions that identify with each historical period
F. Epic ory D. Novel 1. 2. 3. "Biag ni Lam-ang" anonymous "Noli me Tangere" by Jose
below. Have a separate sheet for this activity.
Rizal E. Drama F. Epic
Literary Traditions Historical Period
1. A. Pre-Colonial
2. B. Spanish
3. C. American
4. D Japanese
5. E. Post-war to the 1980s
6. D. Post EDSA to Present

Activity 2: Understanding the Text

Have you ever wondered why we often encounter the term "Native Filipino" when we hit the
search engine about our ancestors? In the same manner, the label "Pure Filipino" is often
subject for debate since we are products of interracial families. As a result of trades with our
neighboring countries during ancient times and various colonial periods in the Philippine
history, our identity became a major issue. The text below, taken from the Department of
Tourism website, gives background about us- Filipinos. It also discusses how various
religions were introduced to us. Read thoroughly the selection to find out more. Be ready to
answer the questions that follow.
 People and Religion
Department of Tourism

1.The Filipino is basically of Malay stock with a sprinkling of Chinese, American, Spanish,
and Arab blood. The Philippines has a population of 76.5 million as of May 2000, and it is
hard to distinguish accurately the lines between stocks. From a long history of Western
colonial rule, interspersed with the visits of merchants and traders, evolved a people of a
unique blend of east and west, both in appearance and culture.
2.The Filipino character is actually a little bit of all the cultures put together. The bayanihan
or spirit of kinship and camaraderie that Filipinos are famous for is said to be taken from
Malay forefathers. The close family relations are said to have been inherited from the
Chinese. The piousness comes from the Spaniards who introduced Christianity in the 16th
century. Hospitality is a common denominator in the Filipino character and this is what
distinguishes the Filipino. Filipinos are probably one of the few, if not the only, English-
proficient Oriental people today. Pilipino is the official national language, with English
considered as the country's unofficial one.
3.The Filipinos are divided geographically and culturally into regions, and each regional
group is recognizable by distinct traits and dialects - the sturdy and frugal llocanos of the
north, the industrious Tagalogs of the central plains, the carefree Visayans from the central
islands, and the colorful tribesmen and religious Moslems of Mindanao. Tribal communities
can be found scattered across the archipelago. The Philippines has more than 111 dialects
spoken, owing to the subdivisions of these basic regional and cultural groups.
4.The country is marked by a true blend of cultures; truly in the Philippines, East meets
West. The background of the people is Indonesian and Malay. There are Chinese and
Spanish elements as well. The history of American rule and contact with merchants and
traders culminated in a unique blend of East and West, both in the appearance and culture
of the Filipinos, or people of the Philippines.
5.Hospitality, a trait displayed by every Filipino, makes these people legendary in Southeast
Asia. Seldom can you find such hospitable people who enjoy the company of their Western
visitors. Perhaps due to their long association with Spain, Filipinos are emotional and
passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian.
6.The Spaniards introduced Christianity (the Roman Catholic faith) and succeeded in
converting the overwhelming majority of Filipinos. At least 83% of the total population
belongs to the Roman Catholic faith.
7.The American occupation was responsible for teaching the Filipino people the English
language. The Philippines is currently the third-largest English speaking country in the world.
8Historically, the Filipinos have embraced two of the great religions of the world - Islam and
Christianity. Islam was introduced during the 14th century shortly after the expansion of Arab
commercial ventures in Southeast Asia. Today, it is limited to the southern region of the
country.
9.Christianity was introduced as early as the 16th century with the coming of Ferdinand
Magellan in 1521.
10.Protestantism was introduced by the first Presbyterian and Methodist missionaries who
arrived with the American soldiers in 1899.
11.Two Filipino independent churches were organized at the turn of the century and are
prominent today. These are the Aglipay (Philippine Independent Church) and the Iglesia Ni
Kristo (Church of Christ) founded in 1902 and 1914, respectively. Recently the Aglipay
signed a covenant with the Anglican Church. The Iglesia ni Kristo has expanded its
membership considerably. Its churches, with their unique towering architecture, are
landmarks in almost all important towns, provincial capitals, and major cities.

ASSESSMENT 2: Do as instructed.
2a. VOCABULARY DEVELOPMENT: Define the meaning of each word based on how
it is used in the paragraph given.
1. stock (paragraph 1)
2. piousness (paragraph 2)
3. culminated (paragraph 4)
4. interspersed (paragraph 1)
5. prominent (paragraph 11