Understanding Filipino Literature
Philippine Literature is an inclusive and extensive collection of works both in written and oral forms, showcasing the experiences, cultures, traditions and history of Filipinos as a people. While it demonstrates a variety of forms and genres such as novels, short stories, poetry, epics, plays and essays, it also employs several languages but not limited to Filipino, English, and Spanish and even local dialects like Cebuano and Hiligaynon.
Philippine Literature grew over the centuries starting from the traditions during the pre-colonial periods, the colonial periods and modern times. It is concerned with society and depicts the lives and achievements of the people of the Philippines alongside their struggles while also demonstrating their culture and identity.
Periods of Philippine Literature
Pre-Colonial Era
- Epics such as Hinilawod and Biag ni Lam-ang alongside Folk Songs, Myths, Proverbs and other works like them moulded society and were the focal point of devotion with minimal literacy.
- Creation of these works and engagement in society was heavily tied to nature and practising faith.American Colonial Period (1898–1946)Post Wars and Contemporary Period
- New neighbourhood centres focused on modernist writing, political themes against western colonisation and globalisation, and cultural expression.
- In addition, there has been a proliferation of various voices in regional languages and on the internet.
Importance of Literature of the Philippines
- From the Writing of his History
- Its literature is not simply a creation; it is in many ways an archive of a people, in this case of the Filipino people’s way of life, its practices, its beliefs and historical events.
- This ensures that the customs and languages of many tribes are honoured and that their descendants stay attuned to their ancestors’ legacies.
- Images of the Society
- Philippine literature is a pictorial representation of society including but not limited to colonialism, inequality, migration, and so forth, the Filipino emigrants and immigrants.
- Such covering of issues in literature creates consciousness and understanding of social, political and economic conditions of the country.
- Voice of the People
- An opportunity for Filipinos to showcase their identity shaped by colonialism and intermingling nations throughout the centuries is what literature provides.
- The Filipino aspiration can also be seen in the literary works of Florante at Laura and Dekada ‘70 for example.
- Tool for Education and Advocacy – Philippine literature possesses character and quality as a universal value of art, which is why it should be taught, as it instils critical thinking and a proper understanding of Filipino values and culture. – It has been utilised for the purpose of advocacy and has inspired the people of the country in their struggles for freedom, equality, and justice from time immemorial. 5. Promotion of Unity in Diversity – Philippine literature, along with other literatures from different regions and dialects, reflects the diversity of cultures in the country but fosters a sense of oneness and brotherhood among Filipinos. – It aids in promoting respect and understanding of various ethnic societies. Conclusion Philippine literature is a compilation of the oral and written literature of a people; it represents the nation, embodying its vision, struggle, and victory. It serves as the self-identity and pride of the people, uniting the past with the present and future. It reminds us to respect and give a voice to the past and the storytellers of the future through Philippine literature.