Chapter 1- Introduction to the study of Philippine Literature
1. DEFINITION OF LITERATURE The word literature is derived from the Latin term
Literal which means letter. It has been defined by various writers. Because literature
deals with ideas, thoughts and emotions of man, literature can be said to be the story of
man. Man’s loves, grief’s, thoughts, dreams, and aspirations coached in a beautiful
language are Literature.
2. In order to know the history of a nation’s spirit, one must read its literature.
a. Brother Azurin defines Literature that it expresses the feelings of people to
society, to the government, to his surroundings, to his Fellowmen and to his Divine
Creator.
b. Webster defines literature as anything that is printed, as long as it is related to
the ideas and feelings of people, whether it is true, or just a product of one’s
imagination.
c. Salazar and Nazal say that true literature is a piece of written work which is
undying.
3. In response to his everyday efforts to live, to be happy in his environment and, after
struggles, to reach his Creator.
4. LITERARY STANDARDS
Universality
Artistry
Intellectual Value
Suggestiveness
Spiritual Value
Permanence Style
a. UNIVERSALITY Great literature is timeless and timely. Forever relevant, it
appeals to one and all, anytime, anywhere, because it deals with elemental
feelings, fundamental truths and universal conditions.
b. Artistry this is the quality that appeals to our sense of beauty.
c. Intellectual Value a literary works stimulates thought. It enriches our mental
life by making us realize fundamental truths about life and human nature.
d. Suggestiveness this is the quality associated with the emotional power of
literature. Great literature moves us deeply and stirs our feeling and
imagination, giving and evoking visions above and beyond the plane of
ordinary life and experience.
