Lesson 1 - Introduction To 21st Century Literature

Philippine Literature
1
Introduction to the 21st Century

At the end of the module, students should be able to:
1. State the meaning of literature
2. Discuss the meaning of literature
3. Appreciate the extent of literature in all aspects of human environment
4. Discuss the types of literature
5. Compare and contrast the four literary genres
It gives nostalgic feelings and enjoyment to re-examine the comedies,
tragedies and inspiration of the beautiful Filipino poems, stories, essays and
plays. Going over them is a very wonderful experience. It enables you to
magnify your appreciation of literary selections and see the role they play in
society and even grow and evolve through your literary journey.
What is Literature?
Literature seems too difficult to embrace for people who are indifferent to it.
However, it continues to grow and stay because of its significance and value
to man. Literature is an art of self-expression.
Literally, it means "an acquaintance with letters" as in the first sense given in
the Oxford English Dictionary. In Latin, "littera" means an individual written
character. It represents a language or people; culture or tradition, passion
and dignified thoughts. It introduces us to new world of experience. It
records the experience of man. It imitates and interprets life through
language. Everything that is written is literature.
Importance of Literature
Literature molds man as a total human being, sympathetic, aware and
sensitive. It educates and entertains. When we read literature, we are
informed of events that beset our environment and the fictitious characters
and colorful events amuse us.
Literature leads us to understand the life of man. It is important to us
because it speaks to us and it affects us. Even when literature is seemingly
ugly, it is still beautiful. It enlivens human interest, enriches and colors our
imagination. It is an expression of thought, feeling, emotions and attitudes
towards life. It shapes our minds that make us changed individuals.
Literature shapes man not only as nurses, engineers, accountants, teachers,

doctors, computer specialists, information technologists, etc. but as man, his
personality, as well as his views and ideas, count.
Course Module
Literature entails reading.
In order to appreciate a literary piece, you may follow some guidelines to
follow in reading.
1. You have to read with purpose, not just for the story. For example: If
the story is recreational, it should always be interesting and be able to
provide pleasure, but you should know how to read for more than just
pleasure. You should read with a purpose.
2. You should be able to avoid reading selections and television or video
presentations that tackle details of sin, crime and violence. If you
pursue it, do it with a good purpose.
3. Individual titles should be evaluated with careful regard to the
positive principles set forth in Ellen White’s writings which make the
readers experience peace of mind and a reassurance of soul, which
tends toward sensible, moral, and compassionate living, and that the
titles can satisfy the deepest yearnings of the human heart.
4. You should be able to discriminate between the best and the inferior
literature.
5. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are
honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,
whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if
there be any praise, think on these things. (Phil 4:8)
Types of Literature
Literature has two major types: oral and written.
Oral literature includes ballads, myth, jokes, folktales and fables; whereas
written source has drama, novel, poetry and nonfictional literature.
Kinds of Literature according to Structure

Poetry is an artistic piece of philosophical, personal, imaginative or
inspirational nature that is laid out in lines.
Prose is a literary piece that is written without metrical structure.
Literature can also be classified as either fictional or non-fictional.
Fictional literature is simply defined as a product of one's imaginative
mind. It can be a drama, short story, novel, myth, folktale and poetry.
Non-fictional literature is opposite to fiction as it comes out of one's
personal experiences, a true and factual account of varying information. It
comprises the interesting facts with analysis and illustrations. It includes
autobiography, biography, essay, literary criticism, journal, newspaper, diary,
magazine, etc.
Literary Genres (Forms)

This module-workbook sums up four literary genres or forms: poem, short
story, essay and drama.
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Poem
Poem is a composition written in verses having standard measurements and
written with a higher intensity of artistic beauty. William Wordsworth puts it
as “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings in tranquility.” The poet
employs the following in constructing a poem; diction that includes
denotation and connotation of words, imagery, symbolism, figurative
language, rhythm and rhyme. These are explained in the lessons that follow.
Interpreting poems is not easy. Poems are difficult to understand. It is very
important that we need to use literary approaches and historical
backgrounds in reading this literary form.
Poems are classified into three: lyric, narrative and dramatic.
Lyric poem refers to short poems which express the personal thoughts or
emotions of the poet. It can be a song, ode, elegy or sonnet. It is intended to
be sung.
Narrative poem tells a story. It can be a ballad or an epic.
Dramatic poetry is a theatrical dialogue performed on stage. It can be a
tragedy, comedy, melodrama or tragicomedy.
Short Story
Short story is a small commercial fiction, true or imaginary, and smaller than
a novel. It is composed with an easy beginning illustrated in its exposition, a
conflict that holds the problem to be solved in the selection, a concrete theme
that presents the subject matter of the story, some dialogs and actions that
picture the rising action and climax, an ends with a resolution. They are oral
and short-lived. Some examples are gossip, joke, fable, myth, parable, hearsay
and legend. However, short stories are now written for appreciation and
evaluation.
Essay
Essay is a literary composition that presents the author’s point of view about
any particular topic in a detailed way. Essay has simple way of narrating the
main subject; therefore, they are descriptive, lengthy, subject-oriented and
comparative.
Different types of essay: Personal essay, expository essay type, response
essay, process essay, persuasive essay, argumentative essay, critical essay
type, interview essay, reflective essay type, evaluation, observation essay,
comparison type of essay, application essay, compare and contrast essay and
narrative essay type.
References
Alcantara, R. (2000). World literature: An adventure in human experience.
Quezon City: Katha Publishing Co. Inc.
Course Module
Bascara, L.R. (2003). World literature: A tertiary textbook for literature
under the new curriculum. Manila: Rex Bookstore.
Castillo, T.T. and Medina B.S. (1974). Philippine literature from ancient to
present. Quezon City: Philippine Graphic Arts Inc.
CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts. Panitikan Series
Chin, B.(2002). Glencoe literature: the reader’s choice. New York:
Glencoe/MacGrawHill.
Ecrivain-Public arts literature writing professionals(2008). Retrieved June
10, 2010 from http://www.ecrivain-public.viz
Guiyab, R.G. (2005). Philippine literature: beyond forgetting. Makati City:
Grandwater Publication.
Kahayon, A. H. (2000). Philippine literature: through the years. Mandaluyong
City: National Bookstore.
Myers-Shaffer, C. (2000). The principles of literature: a guide for readers and
writers. New York: Barron’s Educational Series.
Lombardi, E. Literature. Retrieved May 28, 2010 from classiclit.about.com.
Lumbera, B. and Lumbera, C. (1982) Philippine literature: a story and
anthology. Manila: National Bookstore.
Marquez, S.T. (2009). Developmental; Reading 2. Quezon City: Lorimar
Publishing.
Oak, M. Importance of literature. Retrieved July 30, 2010 from
www.buzzle.com/articles/importance-of-literature.html
Tan, A. B. (2001). Introduction to literature, 4th ed. Mandaluyong City:
Academic Publishing Corporaton
Today in Literature. Retrieved June10,2010 from
http://www.todayinliterature.com
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Short Story Elements

At the end of the module, students should be able to:
1. Define a short story;
2. Discuss the elements of a short story;
3. Discuss the guidelines for reading a short story; and
4. Draw out values from the stories
Do you enjoy narrating your experiences to a friend or a party of friends? You
probably do. Telling stories is fun and entertaining. It is also a very old
tradition that everyone likes to do. During the early days, storytelling was
done orally. Today, stories may be written in books, newspapers, magazines,
and other such medium.
Have you observed why stories appear very appealing to you and to other
people? It is because stories concern people. You are curious about other
people and also about yourselves. Stories are very attractive to you because
of the suspense they create. A good and entertaining story brings you to life.
You often react when you see the actor tortured by his opponent. You fight
back with him, love with him and be inspired along with him especially when
he experiences good fortune in the story.
What is a Short Story?

A short story is a short piece of fiction containing elements described in the
chart on these pages. It is a prose that has one unit of place, time and action.
It is a “bite size” version of a novel. You can finish reading it in just one
sitting. It is written by someone with serious artistic intentions who hopes to
broaden, deepen, and sharpen your awareness of life. It brings you into the
real world enabling you to understand the difficulties of life and to empathize
with others. The short story has eight elements to help you understand and
enjoy reading it. These elements are plot and structure, character and
characterization, theme, setting, point of view, tone and style, symbol,
allegory and fantasy, humor and irony.
Short Story Elements

Plot and Structure Plot
It is a reflection of motivation and causation. It is the sequence of incidents or
events through which an author constructs a story. The plot is not merely the
action itself, but the way the author arranges the action toward a specific end
(structure).
Structure
It defines the layout of the work. It presents how each event causes or leads
to the next.
Course Module
The plot has the following elements: conflict, exposition, rising action, climax,
falling action and resolution.
Conflict
It is where plot is often created. It is a controlling impulse in a connected
pattern of causes and effects. It is a major element of plot because it arouses
curiosity, causes doubt, creates tension and produces interest. Remember
that if there is no tension there is no interest. Great stories do have a conflict.
Conflict is classified into external and internal:
An external conflict is one between a character and an outside force, such as
another character, nature, society, or fate.
An internal conflict takes place within the mind of a character who is torn
between opposing feelings or between different courses of action. This is also
called dilemma, a conflict within or for one person.
Most plots develop in five stages:
1. Exposition introduces the story’s characters, setting, and conflict.
2. Rising action occurs as complications, twists, or intensifications of
the conflict occur.
3. Climax is the emotional high point of the story. It is the most exciting
part of the story.
4. Falling action is the logical result of the climax.
5. Resolution presents the final outcome of the story. It may be happy,
unhappy or indeterminate.
Character and Characterization

Character is a verbal representation of a human being. Every story needs
characters: people, animals, or any other creatures. The character is either a
protagonist (“the good guy”) or antagonist (“the bad guy”). A character is also
classified as flat, round, stock, static or developing.
Types of Characters
Flat Character usually has one or two predominant traits. The character can
be summed up in just a few lines. Example: A father who is strict from the
beginning to the end of the story.
Round Character is complex, many faceted and has the qualities of real
people. Example: In the story, he is a father, a goon, an executive, etc.
Static Character is a character that remains essentially the same throughout.
Example: The daughter who remains a baby from start to finish.
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Developing Character is a character that undergoes a significant change

during the story. Example: A daughter, who suffers from the beginning,
strives hard to improve her life and become rich, helps her parents and
becomes happy at the end, or vice-versa.
There are three conditions that regulate change:
1. It must be consistent with the individual’s characterization as dramatized
in the story.
2. It must be sufficiently motivated by the circumstances in which the
character is placed.
3. The story must offer sufficient time for the change to take place and still
be believable.
Characterization is the quality of the character which is disclosed through
actions, descriptions, both personal and environmental, dramatic statements
and thoughts, statements by other characters and statements by the author
speaking as storyteller, or observer.
Example: Character: Sonia, the protagonist
Characterization – tall, with fair complexion, with long hair, happy, humble,
obedient, studious, etc.
Setting
The setting of a story is its overall context- where, when and in what
circumstances the action occurs.
Setting as Place - The physical environment where the story takes place. The
description of the environment often points towards its importance.
Setting as Time - includes time in all of its dimensions. To determine the
importance, ask, “What was going on at that time?”
Setting as Cultural Context (Condition) - Setting also involves the social
circumstances of the time and place. Consider historical events and social
and political issues of the time.
Effects of Setting - Creates atmosphere, gives insight to characters, and
provides connections to other aspects of the story.
Example: In this paragraph from a short narrative:
… For Cindy Mae, who is now a mother of two, the farm from when she
was still a child where she lived with her parents, is what makes the terrible
things that happened during the war – the things she, Leo, Homer, Fae and
the others had to do – all worthwhile. It is where she belongs.
Setting:
Place - home in the farm
Time – during her childhood
Course Module
Cultural Context (Condition) – war
Point of View (POV)

Point of view refers to whoever is telling the story. It is the speaker, narrator,
persona or voice created by the author to tell the story. To determine the
POV, ask “who is telling the story”, and “how much do they know?”
The point of view relies on two factors namely the physical situation of the
narrator as an observer and the speaker’s intellectual and emotional position
• First person = I, we
• Second person = you (uncommon)
• Third person = He, she, they (most common)
• Point of view may be:
– Dramatic/objective = strictly reporting
– Omniscient = all-knowing
– Limited omniscient = some insight
Example: In this paragraph from a short narrative:
… For Cindy Mae, who is now a mother of two, the farm from when she
was still a child where she lived with her parents, is what makes the terrible
Point of View: Omniscient
Theme
Theme is the central idea or message of a story, often a perception about life
or human nature.
Stated themes are directly presented in a story.
Implied themes must be inferred by considering all the elements of a story
and asking what message about life is conveyed.
Theme: life experience of a child during a calamity like the war
Tone and Style

Tone is the method by which writers and speakers reveal attitudes or
feelings.
Example:
… For Cindy Mae, who is now a mother of two, the farm from when she was
still a child, where she lived with her parents, is what makes the terrible
Tone: nostalgic, misses her childhood days
Style is the manner in which an author uses words, constructs sentences,
incorporates non-literal expressions, and handles rhythm, timing, and tone.
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When you are asked to discuss style, you are being asked to describe how or
explain why the words, sentences, and imaginative comparisons are effective
in terms of what is being created.
Diction is central to an author’s style. It includes vocabulary or the choice of
words and syntax.
1. Vocabulary - Choice of words
a. Simple words - Everyday word choice. (“She was sick for a long
time.)
b. Complex words - Flexing intellectual muscle (“Garages and cotton
gins had encroached and obliterated even the august names of that
neighborhood.)
c. Concrete words - Things we can touch, see, etc. (Jeans, book,
flowers, car, telephone...)
d. Abstract words - Words that express intangible ideas (freedom,
heritage, marriage, something)
2. Syntax – this refers to the arrangement of words, their ordering,
grouping and placement within phrases, clauses, and sentences.
Back to the example episode, the style used by the author is the use of simple
words in straight sentences.
Symbolism, Allegory and Fantasy

Symbolism and allegory are modes that expand meaning.
Symbol creates a direct, meaningful equation between a specific object,
scene, character, or action and ideas, values, persons or ways of life.
Symbols may be:
Cultural (universal) when they are known by most literate people:
Examples: white dove, color black, etc.
Contextual (authorial) when they are created by the author and are private.
Allegory is a symbol that is complete and self-sufficient. Example is: “Young
Goodman Brown” “Juan dela Cruz” Uncle Sam”
More examples of allegory:
 Fable – It is a story about animals that possess human traits.
 Parable – It is an allegory with moral or religious bent.
 Example: Biblical stories.
 Allusion is the use of other culturally well-known works from the
Bible, Greek and Roman mythology, famous art, etc.
 Fantasy - A nonrealistic story that transcends the bounds of known
reality.
Course Module
Humor and Irony
Humor and irony, like many other elements, are intended to create an
emotional impact on the reader. We must FEEL the truth of a story not just
understand it.
Irony is when things work out the opposite of what they're supposed to, or
expected to
Example:
… Brother learns that one brother is supposed to love and protect another
brother, especially when that other brother needs protection. The irony is
that he learns this only after he loses his brother...
Humor is difficult to define but because some humor theorists say that
humor is a literary element of surprise, humor can be safely defined as a
literary element of surprise or be surprised without threat or promise. In
humor, you must have an expectation of how the world works. When
something happens contrary to that expectation, you are surprised.
Example:
Why didn't the chicken cross the road? Because there was a KFC on the other
side!
Guidelines in reading a short story

You read a short story for enjoyment and understanding. You appreciate a
short story if you are equipped with the necessary skills and techniques in
reading it. Below is a simple guideline for you to read this kind of prose.
First Reading
Determine what is happening; where, what, who is involved, or the major
characters of the story
- Make a record of your reactions and responses
- Describe characterizations, events, techniques and ideas
Second Reading
Trace developing patterns
- Write expanded notes about characters, situations, actions
- Write paragraph describing your reactions and thoughts
- Write down questions that arise as you read (in the margins)
References
Alcantara, R. (2000). World literature: An adventure in human experience.
Quezon City: Katha Publishing Co. Inc.
Bascara, L.R. (2003). World literature: A tertiary textbook for literature
Castillo, T.T. and Medina B.S.(1974). Philippine literature from ancient to
present. Quezon City: Philippine Graphic Arts Inc.
CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts. Panitikan Series
11
Chin, B. (2002). Glencoe literature: the reader’s choice. New York:

Glencoe/MacGrawHill.
Ecrivain-Public arts literature writing professionals (2008). Retrieved June
10, 2010 from http://www.ecrivain-public.viz
Kahayon, A. H. (2000). Philippine literature: through the years. Mandaluyong
Myers-Shaffer, C. (2000). The principles of literature: a guide for readers and
Lombardi, E. Literature. Retrieved May 28, 2010 from classiclit.about.com.
Publishing.
www.buzzle.com/articles/importance-of-literature.html
Tan, A. B. (2001). Introduction to literature, 4th ed. Mandaluyong City:
Academic Publishing Corporaton
Course Module
Nonfiction
Nonfiction is the broadest category of literature. Autobiographies,
biographies, memoirs, letters, essays, speeches and news articles are just a
few of the many types of nonfiction writing. All of these forms of prose
concern real, rather than imaginary subjects. Nonfiction writers present
information they considered as true. Like fiction, nonfiction writing can be
creative.
Objective
At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:
1. Differentiate a nonfiction from short story;
2. Define nonfiction;
3. Discuss the characteristics of nonfiction;
4. Point out important details in an essay;
5. Identify the kinds of nonfiction; and
6. Infer motives, attitudes and values of the character from what he
does.
Nonfiction
Are you confused about the difference between fiction and nonfiction?
Books that are made up by the author, or not true, are fiction. Nonfiction is
the opposite of fiction. Books that are nonfiction, or true are about real
things, people, events, and places. Nonfiction gives information. It explains,
informs or illustrate.
Since non-fiction articles tell important information about real people,
events, and others, a good non-fiction writer should be able to achieve
credibility. He should be honest with your work.
Below are characteristics of nonfiction to differentiate nonfiction from short
story (fiction).
Nonfiction Text
• There may be chapter titles and section headers that preview
information
• Each page has words in a variety of fonts and type sizes
• Bold or italic fonts may be used to signal important words or phrases.
• Diacritical marks may be used to guide pronunciation
Use of Graphic Aids

Maps, charts, diagrams, photographs are usually included to illustrate or
summarize information.
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Captions or labels must be examined carefully for relevant information.

Different vocabulary
There may be words that are familiar. Look for multi-syllabic words like
“bourgeoisie” which may be difficult to pronounce.
General information
There is a great deal of information to be understood and remembered.
Kinds of Nonfiction
Narrative Nonfiction
It tells a story just as works of fiction do. Autobiographies, memoirs,
biographies, and narrative essays are types of narrative nonfiction.
In an autobiography, a writer tells his life in a first-person point of view,
using the pronoun I, and typically focuses on the most significant events that
happened to him or her.
In a memoir, a writer also uses the first-person point of view to relate events
from his or her life. Memoirs differ from autobiographies in that they
typically focus on one period of a person’s life. In a memoir, a writer will tend
to emphasize his or her relationships with other people of the impact of
significant historical events on his or her own life.
In a biography, a writer uses the third-person point of view to write about
the life of someone else.
In a narrative essay, a writer may use either the first- or third-person point of
view to relate a true story in a short composition. Examples include reflective
essays, personal essays, and journals.
Because works of nonfiction tell a story, they have many characteristics of
fiction. For example, they may include such elements as setting, character,
theme, plot and conflict.
Their organization also may resemble that of fictional stories. An author may
present events in chronological order, or the order in which they occurred.
The author may use flashback, going back in time to present incidents that
occurred before the beginning of the story.
Informative Nonfiction
This includes essays, speeches, and articles that explain a topic or promote
an opinion. Writers of informative nonfiction sometimes weave stories or
persona anecdotes into their writing. Two major types of informative
nonfiction are expository essays and persuasive essays.
Course Module
1. Expository essays explain a topic. Articles that explain the steps in a
process, report the news, or analyze a work of literature are all examples of
expository writing. Examples are analytical essays and research reports.
2. Persuasive essays promote opinion. Advice columns, movie reviews, and
editorials are all examples of persuasive writing. Many persuasive and
expository essays follow a general structure of lead, body and conclusion.
Examples are editorials and political speeches.
3. Descriptive essays uses details related to the senses to create mental
images for the reader. Examples are character sketches and scientific
observation.
The lead or introduction captures the reader’s attention and often includes a
thesis, or statement of the essay’s main idea. The body develops the main
idea by providing supporting details, such as facts, reasons, quotations,
statistics, sensory details, examples, observations, and personal experiences.
The conclusion may restate the main idea, summarize the essay’s main
points, or leave the reader with something to think about. A persuasive essay
may end with a call to action.
Characteristics of Non-Fiction
Works of nonfiction differ from works of fiction in several ways.
1. The people, events, places, and ideas presented in nonfiction are real,
not invented.
2. Nonfiction is narrated by an author who is a real person.
3. It presents facts, describes true-life experiences, or discusses ideas.
4. Nonfiction is written for a specific audience, or group of readers. In
addition, it addresses a clear purpose, or reason for writing. The
audience and purpose influence the type of information a writer
includes.
5. Tone, the author’s attitude toward the subject or reader, is displayed
through the writer’s word choice and style.
Other Information that the writer contributes to non-fiction are the
following:
1. Style – the way the writer uses the language. It reflects the writer’s
personality. The author’s style includes the level of formality, word
choice, sentence construction, methods of organization etc.
2. Tone – is the author’s attitude toward his work and his readers. As
you read the writer’s work, you feel his seriousness, friendliness,
personality, sarcasm, happiness, etc.
3. Perspective – is the point of view of the author. It is how he expresses
about his topic, either directly or indirectly.
4. Purpose – is the author’s reason for writing. His purposes may be to
inform, explain, persuade, honor, entertain and warn.
Analyzing Nonfiction
When you analyze nonfiction, begin by identifying the type of work you are
reading. By looking at the title and skimming the beginning, you can usually
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tell whether the work is an autobiography or a memoir, a biography, an

essay, or another type of nonfiction writing.
Identifying the author’s purpose as you read may help you further classify
the work. This is the focus of your essay. Does the author seek to entertain, to
inform, or to persuade the reader? The answer will help you tell whether you
are reading a narrative, an expository, or a persuasive essay.
The content is an essential part of your essay. This considers your controlling
purpose because it urges you to discover if there are enough details to
support your controlling purpose. Be sure that the details are aligned to the
focus of your essay.
Once you identify the type of work you are reading, look for familiar
elements. For example, look for short story elements in a work of informative
nonfiction. Look for a thesis and supporting details in a work of informative
nonfiction. Be aware, however, that a writer may combine various elements,
and purposes, in a single work. For instance, you might read a humorous
narrative essay that’s not only entertaining but also persuasive and
informative. Every piece of nonfiction writing is unique, so consider how
each work is similar to as well as different from other writing of its kind.
***Open the link below and read to answer the activity.
“I Demand My Share by Salvador Lopez”
http://literaryamalgam.blogspot.com/2012/01/i-demand-my-share.html
References
Alcantara, R. (2000). World literature: An adventure in human
experience.(QuezonCity: Katha Publishing Co. Inc.
Bascara, L. R. (2003). World Literature: A tertiary textbook for literature
Castillo, T.T and Medina B.S. (1974). Philippine literature from ancient to
present. Quezon City : Philippine Graphic Arts Inc.
CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts. Panitikan Series.
Chin, B. (2002). Glencoe Literature: the reader’s choice. New
York:Glencoe/MacGrawhill.
Croghan, R.V.S.J. (1997). The development of Philippine literature in English.
Quezon City: Phoenix Publishing House Inc.
Elements of an essay. Retrieved April 20, 2010 from
www.blugrass./ccts.edu/L/ElementsandStructure
Gordon, J.B.(1999).Fiction:an introduction to the short story.Illinois:NTC
Contemporary Publishing Group.
Course Module
Guiyab, R.G.(2005). Philippine literature: beyond forgetting. Makati City:
Important elements in essay format.Retrieved May 1, 2010 from
customessayblog.com/essay-writing/essay-format..
Kahayon, A.H. (2000). Philippine literature: Through the years. Mandaluyong
Lacia, F.C.(2003).the literatures of the Philippines. Manila:Rex Bookstore.
Lombardi, E. Literature. Retrieved May 28, 2010 from classiclit.about.com
Lumbera, B. and Lumbera, C. (1982).Philippine literature: A story and
Merchand, M.Elements of the short story. Retrieved May 8, 2010 from
www.lessonplanpage.com.
Myers-Shaffer.C.(2000). The principles of literature: A guide for readers and
Marquez, S.T. (2009). Developmental Reading: Reading 2. Quezon City:
Lorimar Publishing.
www.buzzle.com/articles/importance-of-literature.html.
Patron, I.(2002).Interactive reading – responding and writing about
Philippine literature.QuezonCity: Great Books Trading.
Roseburg, A.G. (1966) Pathways to Philippine literature in English. Quezon
City: Alemars-Phoenix Publishing House.
Sicat, T.M. and Rivera, N.V. eds (2004).Affirming the Filipino:A anthology of
Philippine literature. Quezon City: U.P. Department of
English and Comparative Literature.
Tan, A.B.(2001).Introduction to literature. 4th ed. Mandaluyong City:
Academic Publishing Corporation.
Today in literature. Retrieved June 10, 2010 from
Villarin, A.S. (2008).Developmental reading.Quezon City: Lorimar Publishing.
Vinuya, R. V. (2005).College reading and writing:textbook and workbook
rev.ed. Makati City: Grandwater Publication.
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Poetry
Poetry is “a way of feeling life,” according to Daisy Zamora, a Nicaraguan

poet. Her statement helps answer how does poetry help us “feel” life”. Poetry
captures intense experiences of creative perceptions of the world in a
musical language. If prose is just like talking, poetry is like singing.
If you want to understand poetry, you must understand its basic elements. In
this lesson, you will encounter the basic elements of poetry that are very
necessary in analyzing the poems you read and hear – and to “feeling life” in
them.
Objective
1. Read a poem using active reading strategies; and
2. Analyze a poem using the basic elements.
Poetry
Poetry is defined in many ways. Some definitions by famous writers are
presented below.
Poetry is…
“Word music, the dance of language” … A.D. Hope
“Criticism of life” …Matthew Arnold
“The spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings” …William Wordsworth
“Poetry is the lava of the imagination” … Lord Byron
“Blood, imagination and intellect running together” …W.B. Yeats
Basic Elements of Poetry

Poetry is defined in many ways but there is one thing in common in poetry
and that, it is a form of communication. For you to understand the poem, you
have to identify the idea or theme that the writer wants to deliver, his
purpose in writing the poem and identify techniques he used in his poem.
Speaker
Every poem has a speaker, or a voice that talks to the reader. In prose, the
narrator is the speaker but not necessarily the author. In poetry, the speaker
is not necessarily the poet. It can also be a fictional person, an animal or a
thing.
Course Module
Model:
I once had a dear ring
speaker is a child
With a precious stone rare,
It was given to me
By my mother so dear;
From “My Lost Ring” by Emilia S. Reysio Cruz
The “What” of a Poem:

This includes the subject matter and theme or the central idea of the work.
Examples:
love, death, time, social satire, humanism etc.
The “ How” of the Poem (Techniques):
Structure : Number of stanzas , Shapes and Lines
Sound Devices: Alliteration, Onomatopoeia, Assonance and Consonance
Meaning Devices : Simile, Metaphor, Personification, Hyperbole, Imagery,
Symbol
Linguistic Devices : Inversion and Parallelism
Sound Devices -Feelings and moods are created by sounds.
Alliteration -Repetition of initial consonant sounds in words.

Examples:
Around the rugged rock, the ragged rascal ran
“Peter Piper Picked a Peck of Pickled Peppers.”
The stream, the stream, the purring stream,
From “Canto 1, verse 9” by Serafin Lanot
Onomatopoeia -Use of words that sound like the objects or actions they
describe
Examples:
Glass breaking
I flung out my arms
Clatter
Clash
Crinkle
Crunch
Now a broom
19
Swish
Swoosh
Sweep
Swoop
Bang, went the gun!

Swoosh went the basketball through the hoop.
Assonance -repetition of vowel sounds.

Examples:
I rose and told him of my woe
Day wane away
Is it the amorous secret of the trees?

From “Sonnet to a Gardene5r: II” by Trinidad Tarrosa-Subido
Consonance -repetition of consonant sounds anywhere in the lines

Examples:
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening
(Robert Frost)
Rhyme
Rhyme is the repetition of the same stressed vowel sound and any
succeeding sounds in two or more words.
Internal rhyme occurs within a line in poetry.
End rhyme occurs at the ends of lines.
Rhyme scheme, the pattern of the end rhymes, may be designated by
assigning a different letter of the alphabet to each new rhyme.
Model : Rhyme scheme
Resi: have I loved thee well? - - - - -a
After the years, what hath to tell?- - -a
Course Module
Hath he that husbanded thee - - - - -b
Loved true, loved well? Or hath he- - b
From the poem “To Resi” by Jose Garcia Villa
Rhythm and Meter

Rhythm is the pattern of sound created by the arrangement of stressed and
unstressed syllables in a line. Rhythm can be regular or irregular. Meter is a
regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables, which set the overall
rhythm of certain poems. Typically, stressed syllables are marked with (‘)
and unstressed syllables (˘).
Model :
, , , , , ,
Butterflies so bright, flying to and fro,
From “The Butterfly” courtesy of Emilia S. Reysio-Cruz
Examples:
For example, read the following lines out loud. The pattern is shown under
the words.
When I was in Love with you
Then I was clean and brave.
'- '- '- '- The pattern is stressed ( ' ) , unstressed ( - )
- '- '- ' The pattern is unstressed, stressed
Form
Form includes lines (verses), stanzas, and shape. Writers create stanzas for a
reason.
Lines and Stanzas

A line is a word or row of words that may or may not form a complete
sentence. A stanza is a group of lines forming a unit. The stanzas in a poem
are separated by a space.
Model :
Innkeeper fare! – line
Innkeeper fare! ]
For you I care; ] - stanza
I’ll die for you, ]
My love is true. ]
21
From “Inkeeper Fair” translated by Fernando ma. Guerrero
Couplet
A pair of rhyming lines in a poem often set off from the rest of the poem.
Shakespeare’s sonnets all end in couplets.
Examples:
The flowers are gay
Along the highway
Quatrain
A four line stanza
Example:
Break, break, break,
On thy cold gray stones, O Sea!
And I would that my tongue could utter
The thoughts that arise in me.
Types of Poem (Traditional Classification)

• Ballad - A narrative poem written in four-line stanza.
• Ode - A long stately form written in various stanzas.
• Sonnet - Sonnet is a lyric poem of 14 lines.
• Blank verse - An unrhymed ten-syllable poem.
• Free verse - A poem with no regular pattern or meter or rhyme.
• Limerick - A five-line rhymed poem that makes fun.
• Elegy - A poem expressing grief, of subjective, meditative nature.
• Epic - A long narrative poem that narrates the life and adventures of a
hero.
• Song - A lyric poem that expresses deep thoughts, feelings and
emotions
Types of Poem (Modern Classification)

Acrostic poem
A poem in which the first letter of each line, when read vertically, spell out a
word, which is usually the subject of the poem.
Shape poem
Words are placed to make the shape of an object or ideas described
Course Module
Diamond poem
A seven-lined diamond-shaped poem that specifies the part of speech in each
line, sometimes with contrasting ideas
Haiku
A Japanese-style poem of three lines, each with a fixed number of syllables
(5,7,5 or 4,8,4) -- mainly about nature and feelings
Meaning Devices
Imagery
Imagery is the use of description that helps the reader imagine how
something looks, sounds, feels, smells, or taste. Most of the time, it refers to
appearance.
Examples:
“The young bird’s white, feathered wings flutter as he made his way across
the nighttime sky.”
From Alfred Lord Tennyson “Break Break Break”
And the stately ships go on

To their haven under the hill;
But O for the touch of a vanish'd hand,
And the sound of a voice that is still!
Candles, yellow and white, burning;

Incense-smoke heavenward ascending;
From “Procession” by Guillermo V. Sison
Figures of speech
Figures of speech include simile, metaphor, personification, and symbol that
are commonly used in poetry. They always have both a narrow, literal
meaning and a broader, figurative meaning. When used, they ask the reader
to think about the words being used in at least two ways.
Simile
Explicit comparison, using ‘like’, ‘as’, ‘similar to’, ‘resembles’
Examples;
My shirtsleeve hangs
Over the rim of the laundry basket
Like a limp human arm
23
From the jaws of a crocodile. Chris Hereward

She is busy as a bee.
Metaphor
Implied comparison
Examples:
The sea is a hungry dog,
Giant and grey.
His face is a star to me.
Personification
Giving human qualities to an animal, object or abstract idea
Examples:
The wind whispers softly to my ears.
The tree sways on top of the hill.
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is a huge exaggeration.
Examples:
“Dan’s the funniest guy on the planet!”
“That baseball card is worth a zillion dollars!”
Symbol
Symbolism is the use of one thing to represent another.
Examples:
a dove is a symbol of peace
a mountain is a symbol of success
Linguistic Devices
Two Linguistic Devices
1. Inversion
It is the reordering (inverting) of the usual word order of a sentence,
often by placing the subject after the verb as in the lines.
Course Module
Example:
Emily Dickinson from "I never Saw a Moor"
I never spoke with God,
Nor visited in heaven;
Yet certain am I of the spot
As if the chart were given.
Heavenly Hurt, it gives us -
2. Parallelism
It is a general term that includes a number of specific devices all of which are
rooted in having different parts of a sentence or corresponding parts in two
sentences mirror each other in structure. Parallelism is a frequent device in
prose as well as poetry.
Lord Byron's "She Walks in Beauty" ends with a sentence that has several
examples of parallel structure:
And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

“Air Castle by Juan F. Salazar”
http://wsosapercu.blogspot.com/2010/08/air-castles-by-juan-salazar.html
References
Alcantara, R. (2000). World literature: An adventure in human
experience.(QuezonCity: Katha Publishing Co. Inc.
Bascara, L. R. (2003). World Literature: A tertiary textbook for literature
Castillo, T.T and Medina B.S. (1974). Philippine literature from ancient to
present. Quezon City : Philippine Graphic Arts Inc.
CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Arts. Panitikan Series.
Chin, B. (2002). Glencoe Literature: the reader’s choice. New
York:Glencoe/MacGrawhill.
Croghan, R.V.S.J. (1997). The development of Philippine literature in English.
25
Elements of an essay. Retrieved April 20, 2010 from

www.blugrass./ccts.edu/L/ElementsandStructure
Gordon, J.B.(1999).Fiction:an introduction to the short story.Illinois:NTC
Contemporary Publishing Group.
Guiyab, R.G.(2005). Philippine literature: beyond forgetting. Makati City:
Important elements in essay format.Retrieved May 1, 2010 from
customessayblog.com/essay-writing/essay-format..
Kahayon, A.H. (2000). Philippine literature: Through the years. Mandaluyong
Lacia, F.C.(2003).the literatures of the Philippines. Manila:Rex Bookstore.
Lombardi, E. Literature. Retrieved May 28, 2010 from classiclit.about.com
Lumbera, B. and Lumbera, C. (1982).Philippine literature: A story and
Merchand, M.Elements of the short story. Retrieved May 8, 2010 from
www.lessonplanpage.com.
Myers-Shaffer.C.(2000). The principles of literature: A guide for readers and
Marquez, S.T. (2009). Developmental Reading: Reading 2. Quezon City:
Lorimar Publishing.
www.buzzle.com/articles/importance-of-literature.html.
Patron, I.(2002).Interactive reading – responding and writing about
Philippine literature.QuezonCity: Great Books Trading.
Roseburg, A.G. (1966) Pathways to Philippine literature in English. Quezon
City: Alemars-Phoenix Publishing House.
Sicat, T.M. and Rivera, N.V. eds (2004).Affirming the Filipino:A anthology of
Philippine literature. Quezon City: U.P. Department of
English and Comparative Literature.
Tan, A.B.(2001).Introduction to literature. 4th ed. Mandaluyong City:
Academic Publishing Corporation.
Today in literature. Retrieved June 10, 2010 from
Villarin, A.S. (2008).Developmental reading.Quezon City: Lorimar Publishing.
Vinuya, R. V. (2005).College reading and writing:textbook and workbook
rev.ed. Makati City: Grandwater Publication.
Course Module
Drama and its Elements
The drama or play has not been an effective technique for interpreting
literature. This may not be a new technique but it gives you the chance to
portray and convey the message of the story in words and in actual
presentation. This lesson presents drama - - - its techniques and elements.
Objective
1. Differentiate drama from short story and other types of literature;
2. Discuss the elements of drama; and
3. Show appreciation of the literary genre.
Drama
Drama is told mainly through the words and actions of characters and
intended to be performed by actors.
Feature films can be considered as drama as well as any television programs.
Although drama shares certain elements with the other kinds of narrative, it
has some elements that are specifically characteristics of drama alone. As you
learn these elements, you will be able to appreciate and discuss plays that
you see and read.
Playwrights develop a script in the play that includes stage directions to help
actors, directors and readers visualize what is happening on stage. These
directions are interspersed between the lines of dialogue and are usually
printed in italics and enclosed in parentheses and brackets. The directions
explain how character should look, speak, act and move on stage. They also
specify details of the stage set such as lighting, props and sound effects.
Elements of Drama
The elements are things that are used to make up a work of literature. In this
lesson, we shall discuss the elements of the drama.
Characters
Characters can be human, supernatural, divine, mythical, animal,
personification of an abstraction. They reflect the personality of the
characters. In the drama, these are listed at the beginning of a play and might
include a short description of each character. The playwright further
describes a character when he or she first appears in the play. Audiences
learn about characters through their actions and dialogue
Characterization is the method of conveying information about characters in
art.
Setting
The setting is the geographical location of the play (story), time period, daily
lifestyle of characters and climate of the story. In the drama/play, the setting
27
is described at the beginning of the play. Additional details might appear

throughout the play. The setting changes at the beginning of acts or scenes.
Plot
The plot is the serial arrangement of incidents, events or ideas. It
encompasses all the incidents and provides aesthetic pleasure. In the drama,
the plot is divided in to acts and scenes.
Acts/Scenes -indicate changes of location or the passage of time. One act play
presents only one location over a brief period of time.
Conflict -is an essential element of the drama. It makes the plot interesting
and intriguing because of the inbuilt conflicts and twists.
Internal conflict -is the clash between the character and his people. External
conflict occurs between two men: man vs. circumstances or man vs. society.
Structure -is an element that presents the design of a completed action. In the
drama, it is illustrated in the plot and subplots (acts or scenes).
Dialogue
The dialogue is where the thoughts of characters are exhibited. It is the
conversation that portrays thoughts, emotions and feelings of the characters.
It includes clues to their background and personalities. It is also used in
advancing the plot.
Theme
This element contains the central idea of all literary forms. It reflects
innocence, experience, life, death, reality, fate, madness, love, society,
individual, etc. It reflects man and society as a whole. The theme presents the
brief idea of the drama.
Point of view
The element that serves as an instrument of the playwright to show how his
actions and words are arranged where the audience can draw their
conclusions. The playwright may use soliloquy or dramatic monologue or
aside. Soliloquy enables the speaker to talk to himself. He is heard directly by
the audience. Aside allows the character to talk alone and be heard by the
audience but not by the characters in the play.
Tone in drama signifies the attitude of the playwright to the story, reader,
characters, etc. The dialogues show the tone or the mood of the play vividly.
Symbolism is an element used by the playwright to effectively show his main
point. He uses properties and other things to strengthen his objective. He
may use a big house or a shanty, a vast field, a motorcycle, a flag, a ship, etc.
Course Module
Foreshadowing
This element is a hint or clue to suggest what will happen later in the story. It
creates suspense and encourages the reader to go and find out more about
the event that is being foreshadowed.
“The World is an Apple by Alberto S. Florentino”
http://ubdlibrary.wikidot.com/the-world-is-an-apple
References
Chin, B. 2002). Glenco Literature: the reader’s choice. New York: McGraw-
Hill.
Croghan, R.V. (1997). The development of Philippine literature in English.
Ecrivain-Public arts literature writing professionals(2008). Retrieved June
10, 2010 from http://www.ecrivain-public.viz.
Jupiter Infomedia Put. Ltd. Elements of Drama(2008). Retrieved May 30,
2010 from http://www.indranetzone.com
Publishing.
Sicat, M. T. M. and Rivera, N.V. eds. (2004). Affirming the Filipino: an
anthology of
Philippine literature. Quezon City: U.P. Department of English and Literature.
29
The 21st Century

Meaning of 21st Century
A century equates to one hundred years or roughly 36,525 days, as it takes
365.25 days for the Earth to complete an orbit around the sun. We are
currently in the beginning of the 21st century, not even halfway through,
starting from January 1, 2001 until December 31, 2100, wherein afterwards
will be the beginning of the 22nd century.
There is no such thing as 21st Century Literature yet as we are midway the
21st century. There have been numerous contributions to literature in the
past 16 years but more will come ahead.
Course Module

Lesson 1 - Introduction To 21st Century Literature

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Philippine Literature

Introduction to the 21st Century

Literature shapes man not only as nurses, engineers, accountants, teachers,

Kinds of Literature according to Structure

Literary Genres (Forms)

Short Story Elements

What is a Short Story?

Short Story Elements

Character and Characterization

Developing Character is a character that undergoes a significant change

Point of View (POV)

Tone and Style

Symbolism, Allegory and Fantasy

Guidelines in reading a short story

Chin, B. (2002). Glencoe literature: the reader’s choice. New York:

Use of Graphic Aids

Captions or labels must be examined carefully for relevant information.

tell whether the work is an autobiography or a memoir, a biography, an

Poetry is “a way of feeling life,” according to Daisy Zamora, a Nicaraguan

Basic Elements of Poetry

The “What” of a Poem:

Alliteration -Repetition of initial consonant sounds in words.

Bang, went the gun!

Assonance -repetition of vowel sounds.

Is it the amorous secret of the trees?

Consonance -repetition of consonant sounds anywhere in the lines

Rhythm and Meter

Lines and Stanzas

From “Inkeeper Fair” translated by Fernando ma. Guerrero

Types of Poem (Traditional Classification)

Types of Poem (Modern Classification)

And the stately ships go on

Candles, yellow and white, burning;

From the jaws of a crocodile. Chris Hereward

***Open the link below and read to answer the activity.

Elements of an essay. Retrieved April 20, 2010 from

is described at the beginning of the play. Additional details might appear

The 21st Century

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