Critical Approaches Used

1. Formalist Criticism - This approach regards literature as “a unique form of human

knowledge that needs to be examined on its own terms.” All the elements necessary for
understanding the work are contained within the work itself. Of particular interest to the
formalist critic are the elements of form—style, structure, tone, imagery, etc.—that are
found within the text. A primary goal for formalist critics is to determine how such
elements work together with the text’s content to shape its effects upon readers.
- In green girl, the author used a first person point of view. Using this kind of point of
view enables the readers to know the perspective of the main character, Milton.
- The author used a serious tone as the main character tells the story about the Green
Girl.
- Also, the author used a lot of imagery in her story. She was able to give a detailed
narration of the setting and the environment enabling the readers to visualize and
imagine what is happening in the story. The readers will feel a sense of fear while
reading the story.

2. Sociological Criticism - This approach “examines literature in the cultural, economic and
political context in which it is written or received,” exploring the relationships between the
artist and society.
- In the beginning of the story, societal concerns are manifested already. “They say the
apartment next door has always been haunted.” This line shows how gossips or tsimis
are present in our society. Milton believes whatever the elders, especially his aunt
Hilda, tell him without any verification. Whether we like it or not, Filipinos “love”
gossiping and knowing gossips. Example, when people say that there is a ghost, they
will immediately get scared and believe without even seeing or consulting of its
truthfulness.
- The story depicts not only our belief in gossips, but also how the society sees the true
essence of motherhood. In the story, it is seen how greatly Milton’s mother loves and
cares for him. We, Filipinos are known for being caring and having concern towards
other people, may be family or friends.

3. Mythological Criticism - This approach emphasizes “the recurrent universal patterns

underlying most literary works.” Combining the insights from anthropology, psychology,
history, and comparative religion, mythological criticism “explores the artist’s common
humanity by tracing how the individual imagination uses myths and symbols common to
different cultures and epochs.”
- Aside from tsimis, the story also manifest how Filipinos have deep regard and belief in
myths. These myths are either acquired through reading or told by our elders. Even if
most of us are Catholics, we have set of superstitious beliefs about mythological
creatures and practices that we don’t know of the reason for doing it. Example is the
belief in the existence of witches or mangkukulam.(ask question of their beliefs)
- In psychological perspective, the story shows Human Interest stories. Like Milton,
when a story seems so real to us, even if it’s impossible, we tend to believe in it because
of our interest to certain things. Human Interest stories shows a perspective that gives
enjoyment while acquiring information. Moreover, human behaviors like pananakot
and fear of judgement by our peers are also shown in the story.