Critique Paper Format for Philippine
Literature
Introduction
Purpose of the Paper: The critique serves as a vital tool for understanding Philippine literature
by placing it within its biographical, sociocultural, and linguistic contexts. It allows readers to
appreciate the complexities of the text and the influences that shape its creation. This
understanding fosters a deeper appreciation of the cultural narratives and values embedded in
the literature.
Thesis Statement: Clearly articulate your main argument or perspective regarding the literary
work you are critiquing. For example, you might argue that the author’s use of symbolism
reveals the struggles of post-colonial identity in the Philippines, or that the characters embody
the tensions between tradition and modernity.
Author's Background: Provide a concise biography of the author, including significant life
events, educational background, and literary influences. For instance, if critiquing José Rizal,
discuss his education in Europe, his experiences with colonial oppression, and how these
shaped his writing style and themes.
Relevance to the Work: Analyze how the author’s life experiences are mirrored in the themes,
characters, and narrative style of the literary piece. For example, if the author faced social
injustices, explore how these experiences inform the portrayal of social issues in their work.
Historical Background: Contextualize the work within the historical period it was written.
Discuss how events such as colonization, wars, or political movements influence the narrative.
For instance, if examining a work written during the Martial Law period in the Philippines,
consider how fear and repression shape the characters and plot.
Cultural Significance: Delve into the cultural elements present in the work, such as Filipino
traditions, beliefs, and social norms. For example, explore how family dynamics or religious
practices are depicted and their relevance to the Filipino identity.
Social Issues: Identify and discuss social issues addressed in the work, such as class
struggles, gender roles, or colonialism. Analyze how these issues are portrayed and their
implications for Philippine society. For instance, a critique of a novel addressing gender
inequality could explore the representation of female characters and their societal roles.
- Language and Style: Examine the language employed in the literary piece, focusing on the
choice of words, sentence structure, and literary devices such as metaphors and similes.
Discuss how these elements contribute to the overall tone and mood of the work.
- Dialect and Regional Language: If the work incorporates dialects or regional languages,
discuss their significance in enhancing authenticity and cultural representation. For example,
analyze how the use of Cebuano or Ilocano might reflect regional identity and cultural nuances.
- Translation and Adaptation: Consider how translations or adaptations may alter the original
meaning and nuances of the text. Discuss specific examples where key phrases or cultural
references may lose their impact in translation.
Thematic Analysis (20 points)
- Main Themes: Identify and elaborate on the central themes of the literary work. For instance,
themes of identity, colonialism, and resilience are common in Philippine literature. Discuss how
these themes resonate with the reader and reflect broader societal issues.
- Character Development: Analyze the characters in the work, focusing on their development
and how they embody the themes. Discuss the protagonist's journey and the challenges they
face, linking these to the overarching narrative.
- Symbolism and Imagery: Discuss any symbols or imagery used in the work and their
significance. For example, analyze how certain objects or settings symbolize broader themes,
such as freedom or oppression.
Conclusion (10 points)
- Summary of Key Points: Recap the main arguments made in your critique, reinforcing how
the biographical, sociocultural, and linguistic contexts enhance the understanding of the literary
work.
- Personal Reflection: Share your personal response to the work, discussing how it has
impacted your understanding of Philippine literature and its cultural significance. Reflect on any
new insights gained through your analysis.
- Final Thoughts: Offer concluding insights or recommendations for further reading or
exploration of the topic. Suggest other works by the same author or similar themes for readers
interested in delving deeper into Philippine literature.
Criteria for Evaluation (Total: 100 points)
Criteria Point
s
Biographical 20
Context
Sociocultural 30
Context
Linguistic Context 20
Thematic Analysis 20
Conclusion 10
Additional Tips
- Citations: Ensure proper citation of sources using a consistent
format (e.g., APA, MLA). This not only gives credit to original
authors but also strengthens your arguments.
- Clarity and Cohesion: Maintain clarity and cohesion throughout
the paper. Use transitions between sections to guide the reader
through your analysis, ensuring that each point logically leads to
the next.
- Proofreading: Revise and proofread your paper for grammatical accuracy and coherence
before submission. Consider reading your paper aloud or having a peer review it to catch any
errors or unclear phrasing.
This detailed format will guide you in writing a comprehensive critique paper that thoroughly
examines a piece of Philippine literature within its biographical, sociocultural, and linguistic
contexts, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the work.
