Sources and Influences of the 20th Century Kapampangan Novels

The research aims to disclose the sources and influences of the Kapampangan extant novels during the first three decades of the 20th century. It likewise provides generic information on how the early fictions have been influenced by their contemporary situation brought about by the dual conquest of both Spain and the US. The study has used the historical-sociological method of literary criticism to focus on the cultural contexts of the novels leading to their advancement. The study covers the texts published from 1907-1923 during the onset of the American rule. The early novelists included in the study comprise of Juan Crisostomo Soto (1867-1918), Aurelio Tolentino (1875-1915) and Zoilo Galang (1895-1957). Their fictions are products of a distinctive racial phenomenon that makes up for the individuality of the Kapampangan people.Loida Lalas-Garcia, PhD Literature is a Lecturer at the Bataan Peninsula State University, Dinalupihan Campus, Bataan, Philippines. Aside from English language teaching, her expertise is focused on the study of Kapampangan novels where she intends to revive this cultural literary legacy.