MYTHOLOGY AND FOLKLORE

Mythology- collected body or system of the traditions or legends of a people in which are embodied their beliefs
concerning their origin, Gods, Heroes, etc.; science of myths.

Mythologist- a student or one skilled in mythology.

Myth- legendary narrative that presents part of the belief of a people; gods and goddesses.

Folklore- popular traditions, customs, beliefs.

THE MYTHOLOGY OF THE GREEKS

Myths are creations of great poets.

Iliad- first written record of Greece. Contains the oldest Greek literature. Written in a rich and subtle and
beautiful language. An indisputable proof of civilization.

Greek mythology begins with Homer -

Greek Miracle- the new birth of the world with the awakening of Greece; mankind became the center of
the universe.

The Greek mythology is largely made up of stories about gods and goddesses.

MYTHS- are early science. The result of men’s first trying to explain what they saw around them. There are
myths that explain nothing. They are pure entertainment.

CHIEF WRITERS OF MYTHOLOGY

Homer- Iliad and Odyssey- oldest Greek writings. Iliad- older of the two poems.

Hesiod- poor farmer whose life was hard and bitter. “Works and Days” tries to show men how to live a good
life in a harsh world.

Theogony- entirely concerned with mythology.

Ovid- Latin poet; is a compendium of mythology. Told almost all the stories and told them at great length.

Pindar- greatest lyric poet of Greece.

Wrote Odes in honor of the victors in the games at the great national festivals of Greece.

Aeschylus- oldest of the three tragic poets.

Sophocles- the most celebrated playwright in the dramatic competitions of the city-state of Athens that
took place during the religious festivals.

Euripides- one of the three tragedians whose significant works have survived.

Aristophanes- writer of comedy.

Herodotus- first historian of Europe.

WRITERS OF MYTHOLOGY

Alexandrian poets- when they wrote, the center of Greek literature had moved from Greece to Alexandria in
Egypt.

Apollonius of Rhodes- “Quest of the Golden Fleece” in connection with the story a number of other myths.

Theocritus- Pastoral poet.

Bion- Pastoral poet.

Moschus- Pastoral poet.

Apuleius- a Latin, told the famous story of Cupid and Psyche.

Lucian- a Greek. Satirized the gods, they had become a joking matter.

Apollodorus- Greek, most voluminous writer on ancient mythology.

 Pausanias- Greek, ardent traveler. Author of the first guidebook. Say about the mythological events
reported to have happened in the place he visited.

Virgil- (Roman) didn’t believe in the myths, brought mythological personages to life.

Catullus- a Latin poet of the late Roman Republic who wrote chiefly in the neoteric style of poetry, focusing
on personal life rather than classical heroes.

Horace- an outstanding Latin lyric poet and satirist under the emperor Augustus; most frequent themes of
his odes and verse Epistles are love, friendship, philosophy, and the art of poetry.

CHIEF WRITERS OF MYTHOLOGY

1. Homer- wrote Iliad and Odyssey- oldest Greek writings. Iliad- older of the two poems.

2.Hesiod- poor farmer whose life was hard and bitter. “Works and Days” tries to show men how to live a
good life in a harsh world. First man in Greece to wonder how everything had happened, the world, the sky,
the gods, mankind and to think out an explanation.

Theogony- entirely concerned with mythology. An account of the creation of the universe and the
generations of gods.

Homeric Hymns- poems to honor various gods.

3. Pindar- greatest lyric poet of Greece.

-Wrote Odes in honor of the victors in the games at the great national festivals of Greece.

4.Aeschylus- ancient Greek tragedian, described as the father of tragedy.

5.Sophocles- the most celebrated playwright in the dramatic competitions of the city-state of Athens that
took place during the religious festivals.

6.Euripides- one of the three tragedians whose significant works have survived.

7. Aristophanes- writer of comedy.

8. Herodotus- first historian of Europe.

9. Alexandrian poets- when they wrote the center of Greek literature had moved from Greece to Alexandria
in Egypt.

Apollonius of Rhodes- an ancient Greek author best known for the Argonautica, an epic poem about Jason
and the Argonauts and their Quest for the Golden Fleece.

Theocritus- Greek poet and the creator of pastoral poetry.

10. Apuleius- a Latin poet, told the famous story of Cupid and Psyche.

11. Lucian- a Greek writer, satirized the gods, they had become a joking matter for him.

12. Pausanias- Greek, ardent traveler. Author of the first guidebook. Say about the mythological events
reported to have happened in the place he visited.

13. Catullus- Latin poet,wrote chiefly in the neoteric style of poetry, which is about personal life rather than
classical heroes.

To all Romans, the stories were infinitely remote, mere shadows.

The best guides to a knowledge of Greek mythology are the Greek writers who believed in what they wrote.

OTHER MYTHOLOGY WRITERS AND THEIR WORKS

1.NORSE MYTHOLOGY
 Snorri Sturluson – was an Icelandic historian, poet and politician; his masterpiece is Prose Edda or Younger
Edda, a narrative of Norse mythology.

Lorenz Frolich – a Danish painter, illustrator, graphic artist and etcher. His masterpiece was Vafbruonismal-
the third poem in the Poetic Edda.

2.PERSIAN MYTHOLOGY

Nizami ( Ganjavi )- considered the greatest romantic epic poet in Persian literature.

Abdul- Qasem Ferddddowsi Tusi – the author of Shahnemeh, which is the world’s longest epic poem
created by a single poet, and the national epic of Greater Iran.

3.EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY

Tawfic al-Hakim – a prominent Egyptian writer and visionary; one of his works was the return of the Spirit.

4.INDIAN MYTHOLOGY

Amish Tripathi –the most celebrated mythological writer in India, wrote The Oath of Vayuputras

Kavita Kane- known for his stories revolving around the forgotten, but powerful women in mythology,
wrote the Karna’s Wife: The Outcast Queen

5.JAPANESE MYTHOLOGY

Matthew Meyer- since 2008 his work has been focused on Japanese folklore, particularly yakai studies;
known as the Yakai Guy for his work onyakai.com, the online database of Japanese ghosts and monsters;
wrote The Book of Hakutako.

6. PHILIPPINE MYTHOLOGY

Elizah Victoria- her fiction and poetry have appeared in several online and print publications and have won
prizes in the Philippines’ top literary award; books are Wounded Little Gods and Night Fall.

Edgar Calabia Samar – a multi- awarded poet and novelist, Si Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon,first
book in his YA series Janus Silang, received the Philippine National Book Award for Best Novel in 2015 and
the Philippine National Children’s Book Award for Best2014-2015read in 2016; Walang Diwata ng
Pagkahulog- first novel received the NCCA Writer’s Prize in 2005, the English translation as Muses of the Fall
was longlisted in the ManAsian Literary Prize.

Arnold Arre- most well- known for his graphic novel The Mythology Class.

Lesson 2 - THE GODS, THE CREATION AND THE EARLIEST HEROES

THE GODS

The Greeks believed that the universe created the gods.

Heaven and Earth were the first parents.

Titans- Children.

Gods- Grandchildren.
 THE TITANS AND THE 12 GREAT OLYMPIANS

Titans (Elder gods)- supreme in the universe; of enormous size; of incredible strength.

Cronus (Saturn)- rules over other Titans. Dethroned by his own son Zeus (Jupiter) seized the power for himself.

OTHER NOTABLE TITANS

Ocean- river supposed to encircle the earth. His wife is Tethys,

Hyperion- father of the sun, moon and dawn.

Mnemosyne- which means memory.

Themis- justice.

Atlas- bore the world on his shoulders.

Prometheus- savior of mankind. They took the lower place with the coming of Zeus.

DIVINE FAMILY or THE TWELVE OLYMPIANS

Olympians- because Olympus was their home.

Mt. Olympus- Greece’s highest mountain.

1. Zeus (Jupiter)- the chief, Supreme ruler, Lord of the Sky, Rain god and cloud gatherer.

2. Poseidon (Neptune)- god of the sea and other waters. “Earth shaker” and is always shown carrying his
trident which he would shake and shatter whatever he pleased.

3. Hades (Pluto)- ruler of the underworld, God of wealth.

Persephone- Queen of the Lower World, wife of Pluto.

4. Hestia (Vesta)- virgin goddess of the hearth. Architecture, then right ordering of domesticity, the family,
the home and the state.

Vestals- fire cared by six virgin priestess for her.

5. Hera (Juno)- wife and sister of Zeus. Goddess of marriage and the family. Engaged in punishing the many
women Zeus fell in love with.

6. Ares (Mars)- son of Zeus and Hera. God of war. Lover of Aphrodite.

Enyo- goddess of war.

7. Pallas Athena (Minerva)- favorite daughter of Zeus. Goddess of wisdom, war and the crafts. Goddess of
the city, battle goddess.

8. Phoebus Apollo- god of the sun, the light, music and prophecy. God of truth, archer god. Beautiful figure
in Greek poetry. Master musician who delights Olympus as he plays his golden lyre. Phoebus means brilliant
or shining.

9. Aphrodite (Venus)- goddess of love, beauty, pleasure and procreation. Foam-risen; Aphros means foam.

10. Hermes (Mercury)- god of shopkeepers and merchants, travelers, transporter of goods, thieves and
tricksters. Graceful and swift in motion. Wore winged sandals. Wings on his low crowned hat. Zeus’
messenger.

11. Artemis (Diana)- goddess of the hunt, the moon, chastity, childbirth and nature. Apolo’s twin sister.
Phoebe and Selene (Luna) Moon goddess.

12. Hephaestus (Vulcan)- god of fire, metalworking and forge. He was not only ugly but lame as well.
LESSER GODS OF OLYMPUS

Eros (Cupid)- God of Love. Represented as blindfolded because love is often blind.

Anteros- avenger of slighted love.

Hymen- god of the wedding feast.

Hebe- goddess of youth.

Iris- goddess of the rainbow; messenger of the gods

GODS OF THE WATERS

Poseidon- lord and ruler of the sea.

Ocean- lord of the river ocean.

Nereus- sea god. “Old man of the sea”

Triton- trumpeter of the sea.

Proteus- had the power of both foretelling the future and of changing his shape at will.

Naiads- water nymphs- brooks, springs and fountains.

THE UNDERWORLD

Hades (Pluto)- king of the dead with Queen Persephone.

Cerberus- three-headed dragon tailed dog. Permits all spirits to enter but none to return.

Erinyes (Furies)- punishes evil doers.

Demeter (Ceres)- goddess of the corn.

Dionysus (Bacchus)- god of the vine, god of wine.

Pan- a noisy, merry god, part animal with a goat’s horns and hoofs. Gay companion of the woodland
nymphs when they dance.

Castor and Pollux- protectors of sailors.

The Sileni- part man and part horse. There are no stories about them but they are often seen on Greek
vases.

Satyrs- goat-men.

Oreads- nymphs of the mountains.

Dryads- nymphs of trees.

Aeolus- king of the winds.

Centaurs- half man- half horse. Chiron- known for his wisdom and goodness.

Gorgons- dragon-like creatures with wings whose gaze turned men to stone. Medusa was one of
the three gorgons and the only mortal among them.

Graiae- three grey women who had one eye between them.

Sirens- had enchanting voices and their singing lured sailors to their death.

ROMAN GODS

-Adopted the Greek gods. Romans didn’t have definitely personified gods of their own.

Lares and Penates- gods of the hearth and guardians of the spirit of an ancestor.
 Terminus- guardian of boundaries.

Priapus- cause of fertility.

Pales- strengthener of cattle.

Sylvanus- helper of plowmen and woodcutters.

Saturn- protector of the sowers and the seed.

Ops (wife of Saturn)- harvest helper.

Janus- god of good beginnings.

Faunus- rustic god/ Fauns- roman satyrs.

Quirinus- founder of Rome.

Manes- spirits of the good dead in Hades.

Lemures or Larvae- spirits of the wicked dead.

Camenae- practical goddesses.

Lucina- goddess of childbirth.

Pomona and Vertumnus- powers protecting orchards and gardens.

Lesson 3 -

HOW THE WORLD AND MANKIND WERE CREATED

Long before the gods appeared, there was only formless confusion of Chaos. Two children were born to this
nothingness, Night and Erebus where death dwells. The universe was all black, empty, silent and endless.
Love was born. It was a radiant day. Order and beauty banished blind confusion. Next was the creation of
Earth no one ever tried to explain.

Gaea and Ouranos- children of Mother Earth and Father Heaven.

Gaea and Ouranos- children of Mother Earth and Father Heaven. They were monsters- somewhat like men
and yet unhuman. Overwhelming strength of earthquake, hurricane and volcano. Hundred heads and fifty
heads.

Cyclops (Wheel-eyed)-has one enormous eye in the middle of its forehead.

Titans- huge in size; powerful. Children of mother earth. They made Heaven out to be a very poor father.

Heaven hated the things with a hundred hands and fifty heads. He imprisoned each in a secret place within
the earth.

Earth appealed to her children to help her.

Titan Cronus wounded his father terribly.

Giants- 4th race of monsters. Sprang up from his blood.

Erinyes (Furies) was born from this same blood. They are called “those who walk in darkness”. With writhing
snakes for hair and eyes that wept blood. As long as there is sin in the world, they could not be banished.

Cronus (Saturn)- lord of the universe.

Zeus rebelled against him with the help of Earth along with the 5 earlier children and it was set-up at Delphi
where Pausanias reports that he saw it.

There was terrible war.

Titans were conquered by Zeus, released the hundred handed monsters and one of the Titans Prometheus
took sides with Zeus.

Prometheus’ brother Atlas was condemned. While bearing the burden of the world.

Night and Day draw near and greet one another, but always one departing, visits the earth.

Typhon- last and most frightful offspring of Earth. Zeus got the thunder and lightning under his own control.

Giants rebelled against Zeus but he was helped by Hercules and the Giants were defeated and the victory of
the radiant powers of Heaven over the brutal forces of Earth was complete.

The world now cleared of the monsters was ready for mankind.

Earth- believed to be a round disk.

Divisions of the Earth

-Sea (Mediterranean)

-Black Sea- Axine/ unfriendly sea.

Ocean- great river that flowed around the world.

Cimerians- lived in the farther bank of the river. Endless night was spread over its melancholy people.

Hyperboreans- lived in one country across Ocean and they were fortunate. The muses lived not far from
them. The dance of maidens swayed and the clear call of the lyre sounded and the ringing of the flute were
everywhere. With the golden laurel they bound their hair and they feasted merrily- sickness and deathly
old age had no part.

Ethiopians- gods held them and would sit at joyful banquets with them in their halls.

Ocean’s Bank- home of the blessed dead. Those who kept themselves pure from all wrong came when
they left the earth.

Time for men to be created- some say it was delegated by the gods to Prometheus- titan who sided with
Zeus and Prometheus means forethought; wiser even than the gods.

Epimetheus- afterthought ,scatter brained person. Before making man he gave all the best gifts to animals
until no good was left to man. No protective covering and no quality to make them a match for the beasts.

Creation of Prometheus- thought out a way for mankind to be superior, fashioned in a nobler shape, upright
like gods. Went to heaven, sun – lit a torch and brought down fire, protection to men far better than
anything else.

According to another story, gods created men. They first made a golden race, lived like gods without
sorrow, far from toil and pain. When the grave covered them, they became pure spirits – guardians of
mankind

Gods experimented with various metals:

1.Golden race- lived like gods without sorrow, free from pain and toil

2.Silver race- little intelligence, couldn’t keep from injuring each other. passed away.

3.Brass race- terrible men. Strong lovers of war and violence.

4.Race of godlike heroes- fought glorious wars and went on great adventures; departed- isles of the blessed
where they lived in perfect bliss forever.

5.Iron race- evil race. Never have rest from toil and sorrow. Worship power.
Throughout the Golden Age, only men were upon the earth- no women.

Zeus created Pandora for revenge on mankind in his anger at Prometheus for caring so much for men.
Arranged that they should get the best part of an animal sacrificed and god the worst.

Pandora- means “gift of all”- evil for men. A sweet and lovely thing, likeness of a shy maiden, gods gave her
gifts, first woman, come the race of women, who are an evil to men with a nature to do evil.

Another story of Pandora:

Source of all misfortune was not her wicked nature but only her curiosity. Gods presented her with a box,
each put something harmful and forbade her to open it. Sent her to Epimetheus but Prometheus warned
him to never accept anything from Zeus. He took her and later regret it. Pandora out of curiosity, lifted the
lid- out flew innumerable, plagues, sorrow and mischief for mankind.

Hope- one good thing inside the casket. Mankind’s sole comfort in misfortune.

Lesson 4 - GODS AND GODDESSES FROM OTHER COUNTRIES

1.EGYPT

AMUN-RA – the hidden one

MUT- the mother goddess

OSIRIS- the king of living

ANUBIS- the divine embalmer

RA- god of the sun and radiance

HORUS- god of vengeance

THOTH- god of knowledge and wisdom

HATHOR- goddess of motherhood

SEKGMET- goddess of war and healing

GEB- god of earth

2.INDIA

MAHESH ( SHIVA )- the destroyer of the universe

BRAHMA – the creator of the universe

VISHNU- the protector of the universe

GANESH- the elephant god

RAMA- the ruler of the Ayodyha kingdom

KRISHNA- the most celebrated philosopher of warriors of Hinduism

KUMAR KARTIKEYA- Hindu warrior god

HANUMAN- the monkey god

INDRA- god of rain

HARIHARA- combined embodiment of two supreme dieties

3.JAPAN

AMATERASU- the Shinto sun goddess

IZANAGI & IZANAMI- the mother and father of all gods

KANNON- goddess of mercy and compassion

TENGU- the protector or guardian

4.PHILIPPINES

BATHALA- king of the gods

AGUI- god of fire

AGWE- god of water

AMAN SINAYA- GOD OF SEA,FISHING AND SEAFARING

AMANIKABLE- god of hunt

ANITUN TABU- goddess of the wind and rain

APOLAKI-God of the sun, lord of war

BAGOBO- GOD OF WAR

DA’LANG- GODDESS OF BEAUTY

DETINOS- GOD OD EVIL, ENEMY OF BATHALA

DIAN MASALANTA- GODDESS OF LOVE,PREGNANCY,CHILDBIRTH

HABAGAT- GOD OF WINDS

HAYO- GOD OF SEA AND OCEAN

HUKLOBAN- GODDESS OF DEATH

IDEANALE- GODDESS OF AGRICULTURE

LALAHON- GODDESS OF VOLCANOES

MANGARAGAN- GODDESS OF WAR

MAYARI- one-eyed beautiful goddess and ruler of the moon, daughter of BATHALA

PAMAHRES- GOD OF KNOWLEDGE

PASIPO- GOD OF MUSIC

SIDAPA- GOD OF DEATH

TALA- GODDESS OF THE STARS, DAUGHTER OF BATHALA

5.NORWAY

ODIN- like Zeus was the sky- father

BALDER- god of light, joy and purity ,most beloved of the gods,

FRIGGA- wife of Odin, queen of Asgard, goddess of marriage and motherhood, mother of Balder, hodor
and Hermod

THOR- the god of war and thunder, son of Odin,notorious killer of giants with his signature hammer
Mjollnir.
HEIMDALL – god of watchfulness and loyalty

TYR- the ancient god of war and god of justice

Famous Myths and Beliefs of Different Countries

a.Norway

The Norse gods were broadly split into two groups: the Æsir were associated with chaos and war, while the
Vanir were associated with nature and fertility. The gods are often considered together with the Jötnar or
giants in English.

MYTHICAL CREATURES

Elves – inhabit the realm of Alfheim, under the rule of the Freyr, the elves were tall, slim demi-gods with
pale skin and hair, who were more beautiful than the sun appearing only occasionally to either cause or
cure illnesses based on their whims.

Dwarfs – dwells in the earth and Svartalfheim, thought of as labyrinth underground complex of mines and
forges. Mjollnir, Thor’s hammer is the incredible artefacts forged by the dwarfs.

Jötnar – translated as giants but usually the same size as humans, considered as devourers, chaotic
spirits of night and day and darkness and winter.

Valkyries- Odin’s female helping spirits, Choosers of the Slain, who are depicted as elegant maidens
ferrying the slain to Valhalla.

Draugr – undead beings with superhuman strength and the stench of decay, could increase their size at
will and shape- shift into other creatures and could swim through solid rock.

Kraken – a giant squid or octopus, folklore’s big beast of the sea.

CREATION OF MAN AND UNIVERSE

According to legend, the gods killed Aurgelmir, rolled his body into the central void of the universe, and
began fashioning the Midgard. Aurgelmir’s flesh became the land, his blood the oceans, his bones the
mountains, his teeth the cliffs, his hair the trees, and his brains blown over the earth ) became the clouds.

Askr and Embla, in Norse mythology, the first man and woman, respectively, parents of the human
race. They were created from the tree trunks found on the seashore by three gods – Odin and his two
brothers, Vili and Ve.

b. Persia

Iranian myths consist of the views and perspectives of the inhabitants of Iranian plateau about the
confrontation with good and evil. Gods acts,heroes bravery and legendary creatures.These myths play very
crucial roles in Iranian culture. Sources of myths are from :

1.AVESTA- the holy book of Zoroastrians

2.SHAHNAMEH – Ferdosy’s epic works in verse.

THE CREATION OF THE UNIVERSE

Ancient Iranians believed that everything was created in a specific order beginning with heaven, water,
earth, fire, human being respectively. Some of the things created first were very well respected like the
Alborz, the first mountain, Simorgh, the first bird, etc.

When the first sin was committed, the whole creation was filled with corruption and decay and
replaced peace and order.
 * Some evil forces attack human bodies directly and some indirectly. Demons are false gods and fairies are
female evil spirits acting during nights. They all serve Ahriman.

* White Demon- mythical creature which is an old demon imprisoning Kavoos, Iran’s king.

c. Egypt

CREATION MYTH- THE STORY OF RA

Not only is ra credited with creating all the gods of the eart, he alsotraveled across the sky every day as
the sun. At night, ra would journey to the underworld , defeatingthe allies of chaos. Ra would alsoruled on
earth as the first Pharoah. Egyptian kings claimed they were descendend from Ra, thus giving credenceto
their seat on the throne. They called themselves “ The Son of Ra.”

Anubis- a death myth

The Girl with the Rose- Red Slippers – a myth about love

d. India

The do’s and don’t’s of the people during eclipse:

1.Worshipping or touching the gods is strictly prohibited.Temple doors are closed. After the eclipse ends,
the idols are supposed to be washed with Ganga water to purify them.

2.Meditation, chanting hymns or mantras and singing devotional songs during an eclipse are
supposed to protect one from the evil effects.

3.The rules dictate that no food should be cooked during the eclipse.

4.Sleeping, urination, defecation, sexual intercourse and make up are also prohibited. Taking a bath in
Ganga is supposed to counter the evil effects of the graham.

5.Pregnant women are susceptible to the evil forces. They should abstain from cutting vegetables and
stitching clothes and not even supposed to sit with their legs crossed.

6.Alter the eclipse, people are directed to take a bath and change into fresh and clean clothes.

MYTHICAL CREATURES

Nandi – Shiva’s bull, the protector of all the animals

Harasimha – a fierce combination of a lion and a man

Kamadhenu- the mother of all cows.

e. Japan

Japanese Creation Myth

The creation myth comes from the Kojiki or “ Record of Ancient Matters “ the first book written in
Japan and the Nihon Shoki.

The story begins in a limitless, formless chaos of a dark, silent universe. After many eons, particles
begin to move and create sound. The lightest particles rise to form the heavens, where the first three gods
appear – the Three Creating Deities.

The remaining particles drop down and create a mass called “ Earth, “ but it takes many millions of years for
this to solidify. Instantaneously, two more deities emerge, this time on Earth, sprouting from a reed.
 Many more gods follow, but they have nothing to do other than merely exist while the universe remains
in chaos.

Two gods, IZANAGI and IZANAMI, are summoned and told to descend to the land to rule creation. Thus,
life on earth begins.

Japanese Mythical Creature

Ubume – Japanese spirits are incarnated in a demonic creature that absorbs the souls of women who died
during childbirth.

Jorogumo – The spider woman Jorugum traps her victims with an attractive appearance and her web.

Shiniga mi- Death note, a positive being who accompanies the deceased on the journey to the afterlife and
in others, it is described as a terrifying being who induces humans to death.

f. Philippines

Philippine mythology is the body of myth, tales and belief systems held by Filipinos ( more than a
hundred ethnic peoples ), originating from various sources, having similarities with Indonesian and malay
myth, as , as well as hindu, muslim, Shinto, Buddist, and Christian tradition, such as the notion of heaven
( kaluwalhatian ) hell ( kasamaan ) soul ( kaluluwa ).

THE CREATION MYTH – SI MALAKAS AT SI MAGANDA

Tells how men came to be. It is the genesis story of Adam and Eve in the Philippines. In the beginning
there existed only the Sea and the Sky and their friend Bird who flew between them. Sea and Sky got
married and gave birth to a child named Bamboo. Bird got tired and took a rest perching on the shoot, then
it heard some voices asking it to free it.

It pecked at Bamboo, effectively killing him and broke him open, and a naked man and woman came out,
they were known as Malakas ( strong ) and Maganda ( beautiful ). Bird offered to take them for a ride to
Lupang Hinirang, the Land of the Chosen where they would live and start humankind.

SARIMANOK – super bird with colorful feathers like a rainbow who brings good luck to anyone who are
able to catch it.

MARIANG MAKILING – legend of a local fairy/ nymph who is aid to reside in Mount Makiling.

PHILIPPINES MYTHICAL CREATURE

Diwata – also called Engkantada – are fairies, nymphs, goddesses or enchanted persons who are believed
to guard natural creations such as forests, seas, mountains, land and air.

Dwende are goblins, elves or dwarfs – little creatures who can provide good fortune or bad fate to
humans.

Kapre – a filthy giant who likes to smoke huge rolls of cigars, and hide atop large trees.

Sirena – a mermaid, sea creature with with a human upper body and a fish tail. They attract fishermen and
tourists. Siyokoy are mermen that have a human form and scaled bodies.

Tikbalang- half man and half horse creature.it travels at night to rape mortal women.

Manananggal – an aswang that can fly after separating itself from the lower half of its body. Eats babies and
fetuses from a mother’s womb.

GODS AND GODDESSES FROM OTHER COUNTRIES

1. EGYPT
  AMUN-RA – the hidden one
 MUT- the mother goddess
 OSIRIS- the king of living
 ANUBIS- the divine embalmer
 RA- god of the sun and radiance
 HORUS- god of vengeance
 THOTH- god of knowledge and wisdom
 HATHOR- goddess of motherhood
 SEKGMET- goddess of war and healing
 GEB- god of earth

2. INDIA
 MAHESH ( SHIVA )- the destroyer of the universe
 BRAHMA – the creator of the universe
 VISHNU- the protector of the universe
 GANESH- the elephant god
 RAMA- the ruler of the Ayodyha kingdom
 KRISHNA- the most celebrated philosopher of warriors of Hinduism
 KUMAR KARTIKEYA- Hindu warrior god
 HANUMAN- THE MONKEY GOD
 INDRA- god of rain
 HARIHARA- combined embodiment of two supreme dieties

3. JAPAN
 AMATERASU- the Shinto sun goddess
 IZANAGI & IZANAMI- the mother and father of all gods
 KANNON- goddess of mercy and compassion
 TENGU- the protector or guardians

4. PHILIPPINES
 BATHALA- KING OF THE GODS
 AGUI- god of fire
 AGWE- GOD OF WATER
 AMAN SINAYA- GOD OF SEA,FISHING AND SEAFARING
 AMANIKABLE- GOD OF HUNT
 ANITUN TABU- GODDESS OF THE WIND AND RAIN
 APOLAKI-GOD OF THE SUN.LORD OF WAR
 BAGOBO- GOD OF WAR
 DA’LANG- GODDESS OF BEAUTY
 DETINOS- GOD OD EVIL, ENEMY OF BATHALA
 DIAN MASALANTA- GODDESS OF LOVE,PREGNANCY,CHILDBIRTH
 HABAGAT- GOD OF WINDS
 HAYO- GOD OF SEA AND OCEAN
 HUKLOBAN- GODDESS OF DEATH
 IDEANALE- GODDESS OF AGRICULTURE
 LALAHON- GODDESS OF VOLCANOES
 MANGARAGAN- GODDESS OF WAR
 MAYARI- one-eyed beautiful goddess and ruler of the moon, daughter of BATHALA
 PAMAHRES- GOD OF KNOWLEDGE
 PASIPO- GOD OF MUSIC
 SIDAPA- GOD OF DEATH
 TALA- GODDESS OF THE STARS, DAUGHTER OF BATHALA

5. NORWAY
 ODIN- like Zeus was the sky- father
 BALDER- god of light, joy and purity ,most beloved of the gods,
 FRIGGA- wife of Odin, queen of Asgard, goddess of marriage and motherhood, mother of Balder, hodor and
Hermod
 THOR- the god of war and thunder, son of Odin,notorious killer of giants with his signature hammer Mjollnir.
 HEIMDALL – god of watchfulness and loyalty
 TYR- the ancient god of war and god of justice
RAGNAROK is recorded in Norse
mythology as prophecy but it
Famous Myths and Beliefs of Different Countries
hasn’t actually happened yet.
a. Norway
 The Norse gods were broadly split into two groups: the Æsir were associated with chaos and war, while the Vanir
were associated with nature and fertility. The gods are often considered together with the Jötnar or giants in
English.

MYTHICAL CREATURES
 Elves – inhabit the realm of Alfheim, under the rule of the Freyr, the elves were tall, slim demi-gods with pale
skin and hair, who were more beautiful than the sun appearing only occasionally to either cause or cure illnesses
based on their whims.
 Dwarfs – dwells in the earth and Svartalfheim, thought of as labyrinth underground complex of mines and
forges. Mjollnir, Thor’s hammer is the incredible artefacts forged by the dwarfs.
 Jötnar – translated as giants but usually the same size as humans, considered as devourers, chaotic spirits of
night and day and darkness and winter.
 Valkyries- Odin’s female helping spirits, Choosers of the Slain, who are depicted as elegant maidens ferrying the
slain to Valhalla.
 Draugr – undead beings with superhuman strength and the stench of decay, could increase their size at will and
shape-shift into other creatures and could swim through solid rock.
 Kraken – a giant squid or octopus, folklore’s big beast of the sea.

CREATION OF MAN AND UNIVERSE

According to legend, the gods killed Aurgelmir, rolled his body into the central void of the universe, and began
fashioning the Midgard. Aurgelmir’s flesh became the land, his blood the oceans, his bones the mountains, his teeth
the cliffs, his hair the trees, and his brains9 blown over the earth ) became the clouds.

Askr and Embla, in Norse mythology, the first man and woman, respectively, parents of the human race. They
were created from the tree trunks found on the seashore b y three gods – Odin and his two brothers, Vili and Ve.

b. Persia

Iranian myths consist of the views and perspectives of the inhabitants of Iranian plateau about the confrontation
with good and evil. Gods acts,heroes bravery and legendary creatures.These myths play very crucial roles in Iranian
culture. Sources of myths are from :

1. AVESTA- the holy book of Zoroastrians

2. SHAHNAMEH – Ferdosy’s epics works in verse.

THE CREATION OF THE UNIVERSE

Ancient Iranians believed that everything was created in a specific order beginning with heaven, water, earth,
fire, human being respectively. Some of the things created first were very well respected like the Alborz, the first
mountain, Simorgh, the first bird, etc.
When the first sin was committed, the whole creation was filled with corruption and decay and replaced peace
and order.
* Some evil forces attack human bodies directly and some indirectly. Demons are false gods and fairies are female evil
spirits acting during nights. They all serve Ahriman.
* White Demon- mythical creature which is an old demon imprisoning Kavoos, Iran’s king.
c. Egypt

CREATION MYTH- THE STORY OF RA

Not only is ra credited with creating all the gods of the eart, he alsotraveled across the sky every day as the sun.
At night, ra would journey to the underworld , defeatingthe allies of chaos. Ra would alsoruled on earth as the first
Pharoah. Egyptian kings claimed they were descendend from Ra, thus giving credenceto their seat on the throne. They
called themselves “ The Son of Ra.”

 Anubis- a death myth

 The Girl with the Rose- Red Slippers – a myth about love

d. India

The do’s and don’t’s of the people during eclipse:

1. Worshipping or touching the gods is strictly prohibited.Temple doors are closed. After the eclipse ends, the idols
are supposed to be washed with Ganga water to purify them.
2. Meditation, chanting hymns or mantras and singing devotional songs during an eclipse are supposed to protect
one from the evil effects.
3. The rules dictate that no food should be cooked during the eclipse.
4. Sleeping, urination, defecation, sexual intercourse and make up are also prohibited. Taking a bath in Ganga is
supposed to counter the evil effects of the graham.
5. Pregnant women are susceptible to the evil forces. They should abstain from cutting vegetables and stitching
clothes and not even supposed to sit with their legs crossed.
6. Alter the eclipse, people are directed to take a bath and change into fresh and clean clothes.
 MYTHICAL CREATURES
 Nandi – Shiva’s bull, the protector of all the animals
 Harasimha – a fierce combination of a lion and a man
 Kamadhenu- the mother of all cows

e. Japan

Japanese Creation Myth

The creation myth comes from the Kojiki or “ Record of Ancient Matters “ the first book written in Japan and the
Nihon Shoki.

The story begins in a limitless, formless chaos of a dark, silent universe. After many eons, particles begin to move
and create sound. The lightest particles rise to form the heavens, where the first three gods appear – the Three Creating
Deities.

The remaining particles drop down and create a mass calle “ Earth, “ but it takes many millions of years for this
to solidify. Instantaneously, two more deities emerge, this time on Earth, sprouting from a reed.

Many more gods follow, but they have nothing to do other than merely exist while the universe remains in chaos.

Two gods, IZANAGI and IZANAMI, are summoned and told to descend to the land to rule creation. Thus, life on
earth begins.

Japanese Mythical Creature

 Ubume – Japanese spirits are incarnated in a demonic creature that absorbs the souls of women who died during
childbirth.
 Jorogumo – The spider woman Jorugum traps her victims with an attractive appearance and her web.
 Shiniga mi- Death note, a positive being who accompanies the deceased on the journey to the afterlife and in
others, it is described as a terrifying being who induces humans to death.

f. Philippines

Philippine mythology is the body of myth, tales and belief systems held by Filipinos ( more than a hundred ethnic
peoples ), originating from various sources, having similarities with Indonesian and malay myth, as , as well as
hindu, muslim, Shinto, Buddist, and Christian tradition, such as the notion of heaven ( kaluwalhatian ) hell
( kasamaan ) soul ( kaluluwa ).

THE CREATION MYTH – SI MALAKAS AT SI MAGANDA

Tells how men came to be. It is the genesis story of Adam and Eve in the Philippines. In the beginning
there existed only the Sea and the Sky and their friend Bird who flew between them. Sea and Sky got married
and gave birth to a child named Bamboo. Bird got tired and took a rest perching on the shoot, then it heard some
voices asking it to free it. It pecked at Bamboo, effectively killing him and broke him open, and a naked man and
woman came out, they were known as Malakas ( strong ) and Maganda ( beautiful ). Bird offered to take them
for a ride to Lupang Hinirang, the Land of the Chosen where they would live and start humankind.

 SARIMANOK – super bird with colorful feathers like a rainbow who brings good luck to anyone who are able to
catch it.
 MARIANG MAKILING – legend of a local fairy/ nymph who is aid to reside in mount Makiling.

PHILIPPINES MYTHICAL CREATURE

 Diwata – also called Engkantada – are fairies, nymphs, goddesses or enchanted persons who are believed to
guard natural creations such as forests, seas, mountains, land and air.
 Dwende are goblins, elves or dwarfs – little creatures who can provide good fortune or bad fate to humans.
 Kapre – a filthy giant who likes to smoke huge rolls of cigars, and hide atop large trees.
 Sirena – a mermaid, sea creature with with a human upper body and a fish tail. They attract fishermen and
tourists. Siyokoy are mermen that have a human form and scaled bodies.
 Tikbalang- half man and half horse creature.it travels at night to rape mortal women.
 Manananggal – an aswang that can fly after separating itself from the lower half of its body. Eats babies and
fetuses from a mother’s womb.

ADVENTURE STORIES FROM SELECTED COUNTRIES

1. Summary of Iliad ( Greece )

Characters:

a. ACHILLES – embodies the Greek ideal of a great hero; has all the virtues and defects of a great man; gentle,
courteous, physically beautiful; has superior skill and possess prowess, courage, and superior intelligence. But the
main flaw of his character is his irascible temper and anger.

Achilles’ heel
 b. HECTOR – he too has all the virtues and defects of a great man but, not like Achilles, he does not possess a
god- like nature; essentially and truly human in nature; he knows he will be killed by Achilles but he undertakes
the sacrifice to do what is demanded of him; fights not for self- preservation but for his family and for the sake of
his country’s glory and honor.
c. AGAMMEMNON – physically brave but he lacks moral courage and resolution; greedy, violent, boastful and
dishonest; egotistic, subject to violent passions, arrogant, tyrannical, and abusive of his right as a liege lord yet
he is also generous.
d. MENELAUS – a weakling, lacks self- assertion, lazy and has no initiative; simply dependent on others for
decision.
e. ODYSSEUS – man of action, resourceful, extremely intelligent and everybody’s friend; tactful and prudent; has
an enormous self- control for he never loses his equanimity even in the most trying moments of situations.
f. PRIAM AND HECUBA – parents of Hector and Paris; Priam is an old man, a loving father, gentle and kind and
courageous; his defect is his tolerance of the sins of Paris. Hecuba is a woman simple in her piety and is a real
mother who prays for the safety of her sons.
g. PARIS – lustful man, weakling and a coward as shown in battle; self – centered and is not willing to sacrifice for
others; main defect of character: his lust which has plunged his people and country into a devastating war.
h. ANDROMACHE – a devoted wife of Hector; main concern is the welfare of his husband yet courageous for she
accepts her fate without fear but with calm acceptance of it.
i. HELEN – wife of King Menelaus; to be pitied because she considers her beauty a curse and a burden;a plaything
of fate and therefore should not be condemned.

HELEN OF TROY was known as “ the face that could

launch a thousand ships. “

2. Summary of Odyssey ( Greece )

Characters:

a. Odysseus – also known by the Lain name Ulysses, a legendary Greek king of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s
epic the Odyssey.
b. Penelope – wife of Odysseus, who is known for her fidelity to Odysseus while he was absent, despite having
many suitors; her name has therefore been traditionally associated with marital fidelity.
c. Telemachus – son of Odysseus and Penelope, and a central character in Odyssey.

3. Summary of Ramayana ( India )

India has two great epics, the MAHABHARATA and the RAMAYANA, both were composed about 500 B.C.
but have been expanded through the centuries by many who always enjoyed a popularity with the people.
The RAMAYANA by Valmiki, is the story of the Prince Rama’s banishment from his northern kingdom into
the wilderness of southern India and his many adventures there. The story takes place at a time when there
were two great kingdoms in northern India, Kosala and Vidaha, both famed for their piety and learning.
The RAMAYANA is subdued in tone; reflection upon moral purpose, introspection and faithful endurance
are its hallmarks; and the trials portrayed in it are expressed in terms that are personal rather than national
or divine.
The growth of RAMAYANA differs from that of Mahabharata in that it grew, not by incorporating
additional incidents and passages, but by repeating and varying the same basic story.

Characters:
( studykhmer.com )

a. Dasaratha- King of Ayodhya ( Capital of Kosala ) whose eldest son was Rama; he had three wives and four
sons- Rama, Bharata, and the twins Lakshmana and Satrughna.
b. Rama – Dararatha’s first born son, and the upholder of Dharma ( correct conduct and duty ); he, along with his
wife Sita, have served as role models for thousands of generations in India and elsewhere; he is regarded by
many Hindus as an incarnation of the god Vishnu, and by the Southeast Asian Buddhists as an incarnation of the
Buddha.
c. Sita – Rama’s wife, the adopted daughter of King Janak; she was found in the furrows of a sacred field, and was
regarded by the people of janak’s kingdom as a blessed child.
d. Bharata – Rama’s brother by Queen Kaikeyi; when he learned of his mother’s scheme to banish Rama and place
him on the throne, he put Rama’s sandals on the throne and ruled Ayodhya in his name.
e. Hanuman – a leader of the monkey tribe allied with Rama against Ravana. Hanuman has many magical powers
because his father was the god of the wind; his devotion to Rama, and his supernatural feats in the battle tp
recapture Sita, has made him one of the most popular characters in the Ramayana.
f. Ravana – the 10- headed king of Lanka who abducted Sita.
g. Laksmana – Rama’s younger brother by Dasaratha’s third wife, Sumitra. When Rama and Sita were exiled to
the forest, he followed in order to serve.

1. The Quest of the Golden Fleece

 The fleece is a symbol authority and kingship. It figures in the tale of the hero Jason and his crew of Argonauts,
who set out on a quest for the fleece by order of King Pelias, in order to place Jason rightfully on the throne of Iolcus in
Thessaly. Through the help of Medea, they acquire the Golden Fleece.
CHILDREN’S LITERATURE

Refers to the material written, published and used for instruction, information and entertainment of
children and adolescent.

Children and adult literature both have the same literary elements but different features.

Age and characteristics of the characters, the simplicity or complication of the plot and the emphasis on
moral or didactic motive.

IMPORTANCE OF STUDYING LITERATURE

It helps readers see the world differently and develop a better perspective.

It offers a deeper perception of life.

It enables understanding of personal and human emotion, issues in society, history and culture.

It also allows readers to unlock the world imagination, creativity and inspiration.

It helps them develop essential skills in connecting with global environment.

It gives them a chance to discover the world through stories, poetry and plays.

QUALITIES OF A GOOD CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENT LITERATURE

Good children’s literature induces strong emotion; it can make children or readers laugh, cry.

It must also be multicultural. Many of the books for children are informative.

They show the diverse cultures of the world.

PERSONAL VALUES OF LITERATURE TO CHILDREN

Experience pleasure and enjoyment

Improve imagination

Enhance cognitive development

Stretch attention span

Acquire information about nature and their environment

Develop positive attitude

Appreciate books and develop a love for reading

Understand literature

Learn new hobbies and acquire new interests

Empathize with others’ feelings and concerns

Understand cultural heritage

Improve creativity and artistic tendencies

Stimulate a sense of aesthetic

ACADEMIC VALUE OF LITERATURE TO CHILDREN

Enhances students’ academic progress

Reading fosters language development and fluency, that includes phonetic and phonemic awareness,
vocabulary command, structural control and improvement of the overall reading comprehension
Lesson 2

CLASSICAL PERIOD

Began with the use of ancient oral storytelling.

It can be traced from 50 BC to 400 AD.

Most of the children literature was also told by adults.

Children grew up with the stories of the adventures of Hercules, Aesop’s fables, Homer’s “Iliad and
Odyssey”, Ovid’s metamorphosis, and the story of gods and goddesses or the creation of the world.

Classical period is of Greek and Roman origins, such as myths and epics.

It is characterized as subtle in thought.

Used expressions, adhere to form, portray archetypal characters, carry a moral message.

It share common elements

It includes memorable characters and distinct protagonists with notable characteristics.

Themes explore human experiences and depict human conditions and the forces around them.

The writing styles include figurative languages such as metaphors, symbolism, hyperbole, simile,
personification, irony and juxtaposition.

MEDIEVAL PERIOD

Medieval period or middle-ages, is characterized as religious and highly biblical or romantic, with embedded
realism and fantasy.

Used stories for moral to children.

The period started from 478 AD, the time when the Roman Empire fell and European civilization weakened

It stretched to the beginning of the 14th century.

Biblical stories, were popular to teach children.

The known stories based on oral traditions, are the story of “Noah”, “Cain and Abel”, “Adam and Eve” and
“Tower of Babel”.

The tale of “King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table”

The heroic stories of “Roland” from France and “Cid” from Spain.

“Beowulf” and his opponent Grendel, the beast, two of the prominent characters

Written literature works started with the monks’ lesson books for the young people during the old English
period

Bishhop of Sherborne, Aldhelm (640-700 AD), had also written books for children, verses and riddles.

Alfred the Great (349-399 AD) translated literature in Latin to Anglo-Saxon – Old English, earliest recorded
form of the English language.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Ansel (1033-1109 AD) published the Bible

William Caxton (1476) created the first printer and published the fables of Aesop, the Legend of King Arthur
and his knights, the Song of Roland and old French epic, the heroism of El Cid, the valor Beowulf from the
Norse.

RENAISSANCE PERIOD

Marked the new era in Europe around 1400 to1700 or during the 14th to 16th century.
The time when new ideas were formed.

Roman and Greek literature were introduced; emphasis was on intellectual and spiritual development.

Books were made for younger readers.

Johannes Guttenberg – discovered the printing press and allowed the multiple productions of books and
spread information easily.

Sir Thomas Elliot – produced ‘ The Book Named the Governor”.

Roger Ascham – printed “ The Scholemaster” in 1570, a book on courtesy.

- emphasized the proper manners and behaviors for young boys.

John Fox – produced the book “ Book of Martyrs” and became famous to school children; depicted the
conflict and violent deaths among Protestant members and Roman Catholics.

John Comenius – wrote “Orbis Sensualism”, a book for teaching Latin through pictures.

Chapbooks

Printing became cheaper in the sixteenth century, single sheets of paper printed on one side only called
broadsides were issued that contained ballads of Robin Hood.

Tales of My Mother Goose, a collection of tales by Charles Perault, was published in 1697. Translations were
published separately as chapbooks in England.

Chapbooks because they were sold by itinerant peddlers called chapmen.

Hornbook

Were not really books appeared toward the end of the sixteenth century.

First books designed for children to handle.

3 by 4 ½ inches long and 2 inches wide

Capital letters followed by vowels and their combinations with consonants were printed across the top.

Lord’s Prayer was printed at the bottom.

Paper used for this was covered with a transparent horn- hence the name “hornbook”- and was held in
place by metals like silver, brass and copper.

Could be hung around the necks of children.

Used to teach the alphabet and combinations of letters and to continue religious instruction.

17th Century and 18th Century Books

Books stressed religion and morals due to rise of Protestantism.

Dr. Isaac Watts published Divine and Morals for Children.

The Cradle Hymn – first children’s poem.

Battledore- ( 1746- 1767 ) a 4 by 6 ½ three leaved cardboard that folded like a pocketbook succeeded the
hornbook; had the alphabet and easy reading matter that made it popular until 1840.

John Newberry Era

John Newberry ( 1713- 1767 ) – “Father of Children’s Literature” for he conceived the idea of publishing
books for the enjoyment and entertainment solely for children.
Little Pretty Pocket Book ( 1744 ) – first book that can be truly called a child’s book.

Mother Goose Melody – a collection of nursery rhymes.

The Newberry Award – Award given to the most distinguished children’s book.

The Didactic Period

Jean Jacques Rosseau ( 1712- 1778 ) – French philosopher who started a new philosophy in the education
of children.

Emile – embodied the philosophy that children be given freedom to develop their natural interests and
learn from actual experience.

Thomas Day – published History of Sanford and Merton, a story about a good little boy and his teacher and
both tried to reform a bad boy.

Peter Parley Books –informational books about countries of the world, wonders of science and historical
figures.

The 18th Century

Folktales- revived during the 18th century.

Tales of Mother Goose – written by Charles Perrault of France in 1697 and translated into English.

Popular fairytales were:

Sleeping Beauty

Cinderella

Little Red Riding Hood

Beauty and the Beast – retold by Mme. De Beaumont

The tales from Arabian Nights that include :

Alladin and His Lamp

Sinbad the Sailor were published by Elizabeth Newberry in 1791.

Hans Christian Andersen

His fairytales include:

The Princess and the Pea *The Ugly Duckling

The Little Mermaid *The Red Shoes

The Nightingale *Thumbelina

The Steadfast Soldier

Emperor’s New Clothes

The 18th century marked the slow change of the female gender perception, and this was depicted in their
literature. Women writers who surfaced were M Cooper and M. Boreman wrote “ The Christmas Box”, Jane
Austin, and many other female literary writers.

Victorian Age

Characterized as the of modern fantasy.

1837- 1901- considered the Golden Age of children’s literature

Bulk of literature for children was attributed to the better status of women and the emergence of more
talented writers.

Alice in Wonderland by Caroll broke the didactic

( intended to convey instruction or teach) ideas in literature for children in 1865..

Second half of the 19th century – boys stories dominate children’s literature.

Louis Stevenson- wrote “ Treasure Island”

Clemens – “ Adventures of Tom Sawyer ( 1876 ) and “ Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” in 1884

Susan Warner – “ The Wide, Wide World” in 1850

Louisa May Alcott- “ Little Women ‘ in 1868 which depicted strong characterization and moral values.

Frank Baum – produced “ The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” depicted the classic U.S. modern fantasy for young
readers in 1900.

THE EDWARDIAN ERA ( 1901-1915 )

Children’s literature became more subjective.

Beatrix Potter- few of her literary pieces are “ The Tale of Peter Rabbit” ( 1901 ), “ The Phoenix and the
Carpet” ( 1904 ), “ The Railway Children “ ( 1906 ).

J.M. Barrie – wrote ‘ Peter Pan” ( 1904 ) was a popular piece during this period.

Kenneth Grahame – “ A Wind Willows” ( 1908 ) made a mark.

THE 20TH CENTURY

Considered the fantasy writing in children’s literature.

Known for the production of picture storybooks, the personification of toy animals.

Hugh Lofting – produced “ The Story of Doctor Dolittle” in 1920.

A.A. Milne – wrote “ Winnie the Pooh” in 1926 which personified toy animal stories.

Laura Ingall – wrote “ Whose Little House in Big Woods” in 1932.

P.L. Traver – wrote “ Mary Poppins” in 1943.

Series books rose during the 20th century such as:

“ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” in 1950 by C.S. Lewis

“ The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien became a prequel to his work of art “ The Lord of the Rings” which became a
very successful movie.

“The Charlotte Web “ ( classic adventure ) by E.B. White, that featured a definitive animal fantasy was
produced.

The rise of new realism after the World War II resulted in the diversity of world cultures depicted in
children’[s literature and opened a more liberal approach.

Roald Dahl – a British author produced “ James and the Giant Peach “ in 1961.

Followed by “ Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, “ The Witches”, “ Fantastic Mr. Fox”, “Matilda”.

Judy Blume- ( 1970 ) produced her novels “ Are There

God?”, “ Margaret”, “ It’s Me”, “ Deannie”, and “ Blubber”.

The late 20th century writers were more experimental in creating something new and fresh.
J.k. Rowling – “ Harry Potter’ became famous like Lois Lowry’s “ The Giver”, Sachar’s “ Holes”, Philip Pullman’s “
His Dark Materials”.

Unit 1: Lesson 3 - Book Formats

Picture Books

Picture books are generally used to refer to books with illustrations and lesser texts.It consist of verbal
narrative and visual elements in book format for younger children."Picture books are illustrated, but not all
illustrated books are picture books" (Norton 2010).

Picture books are distinctive since they convey the message through a series of pictures with captions or
short texts.And it involves rhythm, pattern, and repetition.Picture books are also larger in shape than any
storybook.They have a uniform number of pages or sheets.And due to printing requirements, the length of
all picture books is a multiple of sixteen.They usually have thirty-two to sixty-four pages but do not have
page numbers.

And there are some picture books that do not have texts.They are called textless or wordless picture
books.Picture books are different from comics since they do not necessarily have sequential images
important in comics.Picture books include board books or pop up books and picture storybook.Picture
storybooks are picture book with a storyline.Its pictures and texts convey the plot or the story.And its
illustrations are necessary to show the characters emotions, their actions, the changing setting, the
development of the narratives and the emphasis of the themes.While pop up books contain paper that pop
to be easily manipulated by the readers , designed to grab children's interest in reading and easy
comprehension.

Some examples of Picture Books include "The Little House", "Harold and the Purple Crayon" by Crokett
Johnson, "Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel" by V.L. Burton, "Good Night Moon" by Margarete Wise
Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd.

Transitional Books (Easy-to-Read Books)

Transitional Books or Easy-to-Read Books, are designed for beginner readers to be successful independent
readers.In 1957, after more than twenty years of publishing picture storybooks, Dr. Seuss (Theodore Seuss
Geisel) published "The Cat in the Hat", and Else Holmelund Minarik published "Little Bear". Arnold Lobell
also published "Frog and Toad are Best Friends".These books are considered easy-to-read books.Transitional
books are smaller compared to picture books or regular books.The illustrations in the easy-to-read books
give clues to the message and meanings of the words, thus easy for the children to comprehend.

The pictures are smaller than the texts.The texts occupies a bigger portion of the page.There are more
spaces between the words and lines.The words are limited to 250 or less in common easy-to-read books
and must be in one or two syllables.Word patterns and repetition are usually used.The sentences are
generally shorter but, the texts must be well-written.Some authors break the book into separate stories or
episodic chapters to avoid reading exhaustion for the beginner readers.These book also include table of
contents for easy navigation between pages, designed to teach children to use the table of contents.And
the majority of easy-to-read books are animal stories or animal fantasies.

Illustrated Books

Illustrated Books are books that have lesser pictures or illustrations and have more texts as children mature
to be more independent readers.As children develop their reading ability, word recognition, and better
comprehension, books that they read or made for them have fewer illustrations.To quote Norton(2010),
"Many picture books are always illustrated, although not all illustrated books are considered picture books",
due to the differences of the number and size of the illustrations.Texts are more necessary than illustrations
in illustrated books.The only use of illustrations is to strengthen comprehension and grasp of the events in
the story.
Graphic Novel

A Graphic Novel is a terminology coined by Will Eisner to describe novels that are illustrated and written as
comic books in style.Graphic novels include fictional or non-fictional content or anthologized
illustrations.And it became popular with older children and adolescents.The Graphic Novel focuses only on
one story and its plot is lengthy and the storyline is more complicated.Some Graphic Novels are originally
based on novels.Graphic novels are especially designed for those visual learners who are interested more in
reading novels that are illustrated.

Some examples of Graphic Novels include "The Adventures of Tintin" by Herge, "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by
Jeff Kinney, "Babymouse: Heart Breaker" by Jennifer and Matthew Holm, "Big Nate" by Lincoln Pierce,
"Dying to Meet You: 43 Old Cemetery Road " by Kate Klise and M. Sarah Ki, "Lost and Found " by Shaun Tan,
and "Smile" by Raina Telgemeier.

Chapter Books

Chapter Books or juvenile or junior books are books that are longer, more complicated, and have lesser or
no illustrations.Graphics are available but have less importance to the text."Chapter Books are long,
sufficient for the authors to split the whole book into chapter" (Brown and Tomlinson,1999).Chapter books
can be fictional or non-fictional - includes informational books and biographies.

Some examples of Chapter books are "Holes" by Louis Sachar, "Charlotte's Web" by E.B. Whites, "The Secret
Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett, "The Giver" by Lois Lowry, "Harry Potter" by J.K. Rowling, and "Charlie
and the Chocolate Factory" by Roald Dahl.

Verse Novels

Verse novel is lengthy narrative poetry,a type of children and an adolescent novel written in verse.There is a
hybrid of the elements of a novel and poetry in verse novels.The characterization, narration, dialogue, and
multiple voices, and descriptions are based on the elements of novels.And each poem in the verse novels
captures the idea, moment, scenes, or a significant mark in the characters life.

Some of the examples of Verse Novels include "LeaveTaking" by Lorraine Marwood, "Dragon Fly Song" by
Wendy Orr, "Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson, "Forget Me Not" by Ellie Terry, and "Enchanted
Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir" by Margarita Engle and Edel Rodriguez.

Unit 2: Lesson 1 - Elements of Fiction

1. Characters

At the heart of every story is an array of characters. A character is one of the most significant elements in
fiction. A Character is the "who" of the story. " The successful development of the main character is the
most vital element of the work "[ Brown and stephen, 2007].

Types of Characters:

Protagonist (hero) - the central figure with whom we usually sympathize or identify.

Antagonist (villain) - the figure who opposes the protagonist and creates the conflict.

Foil Character - the figure whose personality traits are the opposite of main characters. This is the
supporting character and usually made to shine the protagonist. The famous Harry Potter is foiled by Draco
Malfoy.
Supporting Characters

Supporting characters are people who serve as a backdrop to the main character's story.

Static – a character who does not change or develop in the course of the story.

Example: Harry Potter

Round – are simply defined by their complexity and believability.

Example: Belle, the protagonist in the movie “The Beauty and the Beast”, she is fully developed and has
several layers to her personality.

Dynamic Character – a character who changes his personality as the story progresses.

Stereotype – a flat character of a familiar role and often repeated type.

Ways characters are portrayed:

Flat characters (stock, static characters or stereotypes): they have no depth and no change; we only see one
side or aspect of them. Most supporting characters are portrayed in this way, for example, a strict teacher, a
helpful policeman, and an evil stepmother.

The ways characters are portrayed:

Round character (dynamic character): they have more fully developed personalities. We expect the
protagonist and antagonist to be rounded individuals who express a range of emotion and change
throughout the narrative, usually toward greater maturity.

The ways characters are revealed:

-What the narrator says about the character.

-What the other characters say about the character.

-What the character says about himself or herself.

-What the character actually does.

2. Plot – the series of events or actions that comprise the story; it is generally divided into:

Exposition – the initial part of the plot in which the setting and the characters are introduced.

Rising Action – the events that lead to the complication.

Complication – the part of the plot in which the conflict develops.

Crisis – The problem of the story.

Climax – the highest point of the story, during which the readers know how the conflict will be resolved.

Resolution or Denouement – the part of the plot in which the conflict is resolved.

Falling Incidents – event or incident that leads to the conclusion; have some suspenseful moments but gives
the reader or audience a sense of completion.

Conclusion – last part of the plot which gives the story some finality; however, when the story ends with a
cliffhanger, the reader has to make his conclusion.

3. Conflict – opposition, the motivating driving force that involves both characters and readers in the
narrative.

Types of conflicts

Social conflict ( man versus man )

Physical conflict ( man versus nature )

Metaphysical conflict ( man versus super- natural beings )

Internal/ Personal / Psychological conflict ( man versus himself )

4. Setting – the time and place in which the events take place; includes not only the physical environment
in which the characters interact, but also the ideas, customs, values, and beliefs of a particular time and
place.

To understand the setting, the readers should look into the following:

-the alternative realities such as the past, present, future, or the combination of three;

-the weather, climate, location, or the topography;

-the concrete or imaginary time and place

-the abstract location {such as the wardrobe in "The Lion, The witch, and the Wardrobe.

5. Point of View – the angle of narration; refers to “ who is the narrator “ and “ how is the narration done”.
Types of Point of View:

a. First person POV – the narrator is the main character or one of the major/ minor characters.

b. Second Person POV- the readers are involved in

the story.

c. Third person POV- the author is telling the story.

d. Third Person Omniscient POV – narrator is an all- knowing and all- seeing observer who tells everything
about the characters; he moves freely from one mind to another and reveals to the readers how the
character thinks. Example: Peter Pan, Charlotte’s Web

e. Third Person Limited POV- when the story unfolds through the eyes of one character; allows the readers
to get to know the character deeply by observing the feelings and senses, the emotions of the characters.

f. Objective/ Third Person POV – the narrator is an objective observer who reports only the speech ( what he
hears ) and the actions ( what he sees ) of the characters.

6. Theme – the idea or concept of the author expressed in the concise statement; referred to as the
message of the story. It is written in statement form.

Example:

* conrast between good and evil: “ In the battle between good and evil, good always triumphs.”

* if the subject is true love: “ True love knows no reason.”

*for friendship: “ No matter how friends are separated by time and distance, true friendship remains.”

IMAGERY

It originates from the Old French imagerie, meaning “figure”.

It is a literary device that allows reader to paint pictures in reader’s mind so they can easily imagine a story’s
situations, characters, emotions, and setting.

TYPES OF IMAGERY

1. VISUAL IMAGERY

This draws on the sense of sight to create pictures in readers’ heads. Authors use figurative language such
as simile to provide direct comparison, metaphors to describe images, personification to see actions or
construct mental images.

Example:

Her lips glistened red like ripe cherries.

It invokes color, size, etc..

2. AUDITORY IMAGERY

6This evokes the sense of sounds. It can help describe any auditory moment such as dialogue in how one
talks or a noisy setting like the roaring ocean.

3. OLFACTORY IMAGE

It appeals to the readers’ sense of smell. It include the use of fragrances such as smell of the blooming
flower, rotting corpse, or the stink of a dog.

4. GUSTATORY IMAGE

A poetic imagery that seeks the readers to savor the taste such as the sourness, the saltiness, the sweetness
and the spiciness of the described images.

5. TACTILE IMAGERY

Appeals to be the sense of touch of the readers. The sense of touch may be cold, stiffing heat, rough or soft.
It can also allow readers to experience physical sensation.

6. KINESTHETIC IMAGERY

It is the cognitive creation of the sense of movement that makes the readers feel the physical motions
when reading.

7. ORGANIC IMAGERY

It is the poetic use of words or expressions that make the reader feel and experience different emotions.

These include sense of hunger and thirst, love and hate or fear, the despair, the hopelessness or pain.

Imagery allows children to clearly see and feel the images being described by the authors and poets. This
will help them widen their imagination and start the journey of being more creative.

TYPES OF POETRY FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

1. NURSERY RHYMES

Nursery rhymes are part of the oral traditions presented in short verses or songs that are often memorized
or sung by the children.

Nursery rhymes are ubiquitous parts of children literature(B.F Skinner) is an effective approach in language
learning and acquisition.

These are some of the popular nursery rhymes:

2. HAIKU

Haiku is a traditional Japanese poetry in tight Syllables in three lines. There are five syllables in first lines,
seven syllables in second lines and five syllables in the third lines.
Since haiku is a short form of poetry, it is ideal to use haiku in the first to third grade especially in
emphasizing syllabication.

Exposing children to haiku will also give them a good perspective on other cultures, especially to the
Japanese.

3. LIMERICK

Limerick can be traced back to the early 17th Century as preserved folk songs whose popularity increased
during the 18th century.

It was popularized by the British poet Edward Lear who is considered the father of limerick.

Limerick is a humorous type of short poem ; it seeks to entertain readers it has five lines with the rhyming
scheme "aabba" the dominant meter for limerick is anapestic with metrical fee in the third and fourth lines
" da dum da da dum" . The first, second and fifth lines have three anapests "da dum da da dum da da dum"
they also contain seven to ten syllables with the expected verbal rhythm.

4. CALLIGRAM POEMS

This is a type of poem created not only to be read and spoken, but also viewed and admired. The term
calligram was invented by Guillaume Apollinaire in 1918, anchored on Greek words "calli" or beautiful, and
"gram" means "something written".

Calligram are poems that use creative arrangement of words to create a visual impact.

This unique feature of the Calligram make the type of poem appealing and popular among adolescents. It
helps students to be creative in the use of words, rhythmic patterns and figurative language. It helps
students in learning new words.

5. NARRATIVE POEMS

Is a type of poem that narrates a story. Like a story it contains a beginning, it is a story told by narrator, it
features element of a story that includes characters, conflict, plot, and theme. It is written in verse and
contains meters and rhyme although some narrative poems are written in blank.

Example of the narrative poems are excerpt of the Raven and no prince needed..

Narrative poems also serve as good examples for dramatic performances.

6. KENNING POEM

Kenning poems are children's literature originally from the old Norse. A kenning poems features poetic
corresponds or the combination of two words to form a poetic expression that points to a thing or a person
some of these are Bone dreams by Seamos Heancy and The Dream by Caedmund and Cynewulf.

Kenning poems features the unique use of words to describe an alternative risker meanings.

7. FREE VERSE POEM

are free in form.

translated from the French word " verse" and " libre" among the poets who started free verse are Whitman
who were poems with irregular meters Whitman's poetic style became a standard in the schemes.

Writhing free verse gives students more freedom to structure their poems and choose their words and
more opportunity in conveying their message.
 8. SONNET

originated in Italy in the 13th century by the Italian poet Francisco Petrarch and popularized by English poet
Shakespeare, Milton and Donne . Sonnet poems are one of the oldest and traditional types of creative
writing.

Sonnet contains of fourteen lines a combination of octave or two quartic of 8 lines and a shortest stanzas of
six lines the rhyme scheme is "ab ab, cdcd, efef, gg" the final part of a sonnet is two lines long called the
couplet which is rhymed " gg“

Sonnet are good materials for teaching adolescents because of their poem nature and style in writing.