Compare and contrast the past literature vs the present literature (min 1 paragraph, max 2 paragraphs) (English only)
Answer (1)
Past literature in the Philippines was mainly oral and focused on myths, epics, and religious themes. It was often written in native languages or in Spanish during the colonial period. Early works reflected the country’s struggles under colonizers and emphasized patriotism and national identity. Stories were simple and often about everyday life, history, or social issues. For example, during the American period, literature adopted English styles like short stories and novels, while during the Martial Law era, protest literature became common. In contrast, present literature uses more native languages and explores a wider range of themes, including modern life, technology, and social change. Contemporary writers mix traditional storytelling with new genres like digital fiction and graphic novels. The style has become more diverse, with influences from magic realism and postmodernism. Overall, present literature reflects both the Filipino identity and global trends, while past literature focused more on nation-building and resistance to colonization.
