SAN JOSE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

San Jose, Malilipot, Albay

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
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ANALYSIS PAPER

FORMALISTIC APPROACH

GROUP 5

Names:

Leader: Trisha Borjal - 50

Members: Janica Villaseñor - 50

Desiree B. Bernardez – 50

BIAG NI LAM-ANG

Revealing a meticulous organization of episodes, suggesting a deliberate artistic

design, an epic poem unfolds in a linear fashion, emphasizing the hero’s journey and exploits.
The epic poem is entitled “Biag ni Lam-ang,” composed by the Ilocano people of the
Philippines, is a tribute to the people’s culture, mythology, and unwavering sense of bravery.
“Biag ni Lam-ang” is a modern monument to the strength of courage and the continuing
tradition of Ilocano culture, enthralling readers with its compelling tale and captivating
imagery.

“Biag ni Lam-ang” is written in the form of an epic poem, with nine syllables per line
and a consistent rhyme scheme. The poem is divided into Cantos, each representing different
stages of Lam-ang’s journey. The structured nature of the poem helps to create a sense of
order and coherence, allowing the reader to follow the narrative easily. The use of repetition,
particularly in the descriptions of Lam-ang’s heroic feats, further emphasizes the epic nature
of the story, reinforcing its status as a grand narrative of courage and triumph. The language
used in “Biag ni Lam-ang” is also and poetic, filled with vivid imagery and powerful
metaphors. The use of figurative language enhances the reader’s sensory experience,
allowing them to visualize the events in the story more vividly. The precise and evocative use
of language in the poem elevates its artistic value and adds a layer of depth to its meaning.

In “Biag ni Lam-ang,” the titular character is depicted as a paragon of bravery and

heroism. His physical prowess, unwavering determination, and unwavering loyalty to his
family and love interest are central to the narrative. Lam-ang’s journey embodies the qualities
of bravery, resiliency, and steadfast perseverance that have molded the Ilocano identity,
reflecting the spirit of the people. The consistent portrayal of Lam-ang as a larger-than-life
figure adds to the epic quality of the poem. By examining the way the author crafts and
develops the character, we gain a better understanding of the themes and messages conveyed
in the story.

We can analyze the symbols and themes employed in “Biag ni Lam-ang” to uncover
deeper meanings within the text. The numerous supernatural elements throughout the
narrative, such as Lam-ang’s ability to defeat monsters and his miraculous resurrection,
highlight the theme of the supernatural and the extraordinary. These symbols and themes
enrich the reading experience, providing layers of interpretation beyond the surface-level
plot. “Biag ni Lam-ang” stands as a testament to the power of literature to transport and
captivate readers across generations. The use of vivid imagery not only enhances the aesthetic
appeal but also serves as a vehicle for cultural expression. The language employed in “Biag
ni Lam-ang” showcases a blend of linguistic prowess and cultural richness. The style reflects
not only the era in which it was written but also the cultural nuances that shape the narrative,
providing a unique lens into Philippine folklore.

To sum up all these facts, “Biag ni Lam-Ang is truly modern monument to the
strength of courage and the continuing tradition of Ilocano culture, enthralling readers with its
compelling tale and captivating imagery. The formalistic approach allows us to uncover the
artistic brilliance of “Biag ni Lam-ang” by focusing on its formal elements. By examining its
structure, language, characterization, symbolism, and themes, we are able to gain a richer
understanding of the poem’s value and appreciate its enduring impact on Filipino literature.
This approach not only enhances our literary analysis skills but also deepens our connection
with this ancient narrative, reinforcing its status as a timeless masterpiece.