Subject
Philippines -- Social life and customs Books
Best books
Frederic H. Sawyer
The Inhabitants of the Philippines
"The Inhabitants of the Philippines" by Frederic H. Sawyer is a detailed account of the people and society of the Philippines written in the late 19th century. The work aims to provide a more positive view of the Filipino populace, countering negative portrayals from previous authors by outlining various aspects of their culture, governance, and the historical context of colonial rule. It covers a broad spectrum of topics including social customs, governance, and the impact of foreign influence on native societies. At the start of the book, Sawyer reflects on his extensive experience living in the Philippines for over fourteen years, during which he gained firsthand insight into the lives of the inhabitants. He discusses the disparity in treatment between natives and colonizers, illustrating this with anecdotes of legal proceedings that favor Spaniards over locals. Moreover, he challenges the misconceptions about the nature of Filipino society, highlighting its complexities and the influences of colonial administrations. This opening sets the stage for a more nuanced exploration of the Filipino identity and the historical forces shaping it, implying a deeper discussion of both cultural and societal dynamics throughout the rest of the book.
Isabelo de los Reyes y Florentino
El Folk-lore Filipino (Tomo I)
"El Folk-lore Filipino (Tomo I)" by Isabelo de los Reyes y Florentino is a foundational work on Philippine folklore written in the late 19th century. This scholarly publication delves into the rich tapestry of Filipino folk traditions, including mythology, superstitions, and various cultural practices. It serves as both a compilation and analysis of the oral traditions and beliefs of the Filipino people, particularly those from the Ilocos region, providing insights into their historical and cultural significance. At the start of the text, the author outlines the necessity and importance of folklore as a discipline that studies popular knowledge and cultural heritage. He addresses the challenges faced in collecting and preserving folk narratives, emphasizing the role of folklore in understanding the past and identity of the Filipino people. The introduction presents the author's commitment to faithfully recording folk practices and beliefs, along with their implications for various fields such as anthropology and history. This sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of Filipino culture through its myths, rituals, and social customs, with the aim of safeguarding this invaluable heritage against the tide of modernization.
Campbell Dauncey
An Englishwoman in the Philippines
"An Englishwoman in the Philippines" by Mrs. Campbell Dauncey is a collection of letters written in the early 20th century, during the author's nine-month stay in the Philippine Islands. This narrative captures her observations and experiences as she navigates the culture, people, and landscapes of the Philippines while providing insights into the political climate of the time. Through her letters, Dauncey recounts her adventures, offering a personal perspective on life in a foreign land. The opening of the work introduces readers to the author's arduous journey from Hong Kong to Manila, filled with notable experiences such as observing the introduction of cattle on a crowded steamer and the first sight of the Philippine coast. As she disembarks and explores Manila, Dauncey candidly depicts the city's contrasts—its old Spanish influences, the hustle of modern life, and the unfamiliarity of the local customs. She expresses her impressions of the landscape, architecture, and the people, setting the stage for her subsequent letters that will delve deeper into her life in Iloilo and other locales in the Philippines. Her observations hint at a larger commentary on the effects of American occupation and the complexities of cultural encounters.
John Stuart Thomson
Fil and Filippa: Story of Child Life in the Philippines
"Fil and Filippa: Story of Child Life in the Philippines" by John Stuart Thomson is a novel published in 1917. When an American narrator arrives in the Philippines for the first time, he meets two children, Fil and Filippa, who guide him through their island nation's history, customs, and home life. Through interactive discussions, the narrator discovers a land of natural resources, rich traditions, and distinct culture—"a string of pearls hanging from the golden Equator." Written during the American occupation, this educational story introduces young readers to Filipino childhood.
Burtis McGie Little
Francisco the Filipino
"Francisco the Filipino" by Burtis McGie Little is a children's educational book written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide American readers, particularly young ones, with a clearer understanding of Filipino life, culture, and social structure in the aftermath of the American colonization following the Spanish-American War. It focuses on the everyday experiences of a Filipino boy named Francisco, highlighting the rich traditions, customs, and varieties of agricultural practices in the Philippines. In the narrative, Francisco lives in a rural area of southern Luzon, where he assists his family in farming activities, including cultivating rice, abaca, and coconuts. The book showcases his daily life, emphasizing both his responsibilities and the recreational activities he enjoys with friends. Through his adventures, readers learn about traditional Filipino familial structures, educational experiences, local governance, and cultural festivities like fiestas. The story also intertwines lessons on Filipino history and the natural environment, painting a holistic picture of life in the Philippines while offering insights into Francisco’s aspirations and development through education, culminating in his graduation and a trip to Manila.
Paul T. (Paul Thomas) Gilbert
The Great White Tribe in Filipinia
"The Great White Tribe in Filipinia" by Paul T. Gilbert is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative captures the author's personal impressions and experiences in the Philippines, focusing on the cultural and social dynamics between the American expatriates and the native populations across the archipelago. The book offers a vivid exploration of colonial life, detailing both the unique customs of various local tribes and the contrasts with Western influences. At the start of the book, Gilbert introduces the vibrant milieu of Manila as he arrives on a transport ship, setting the scene for his observations of life in the city and the wider islands of the Philippines. He vividly describes his first impressions, including the chaotic environment of the port where locals engage in daily activities and the historical significance of Manila Bay. The author also touches on the blending of cultures and customs, highlighting the local people, their attire, their markets, and the signs of colonial presence, offering readers a snapshot of a place caught between tradition and modernization.
Ferdinand Blumentritt
Versuch einer Ethnographie der Philippinen
"Versuch einer Ethnographie der Philippinen" by Ferdinand Blumentritt is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work presents a detailed ethnographic study of the Philippines, focusing on its indigenous peoples, including the Negritos and various Malay groups, as well as the influence of Chinese and Japanese populations. The author aims to document the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of the archipelago, providing insights into the historical migration patterns and societal developments of the island's inhabitants. The opening of the ethnographic study begins with an introduction to the Negritos, the indigenous population of the Philippines. Blumentritt describes their current dwindling numbers, the impact of Malay invasions on their societies, and their living conditions in the remote mountainous regions and coastal areas. He further elaborates on the cultural practices, dietary habits, and social structures of the Negritos, laying a strong foundation for the subsequent sections that will explore other ethnic groups. Through this initial exploration, the author sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of the Philippines' ethnographic landscape.
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