DEKADA `70

by Lualhati Bautista
 DEKADA `70 by: Lualhati Bautista

Characters
Amanda Bartolome- A wife to Julian and
a mother to five sons; Jules, Gani, Em,
Jason, and Bingo; she is a woman whose
life revolves around her family. Julian
Bartolome, Sr.- Julian is the loving
husband of Amanda and a kind father and
a role model to his sons.
Julian Bartolome, Jr.- The other Julian
in their family, who is also known as
Jules, is the eldest son of Amanda and
Julian. As someone who has a strong
resolve, courage, and undying love for his
country, he gave his life in protesting and
fighting for the freedom of his nation.

Isagani Bartolome- Isagani, or Gani as

they call him, is the second child of Amanda
and Julian. At a young age, he got married
and had his own family. He then left the
country to serve the US Navy.
Emmanuel Bartolome- The third son,
Emmanuel or simply Em, is the only writer
in their family. He follows his eldest
brother’s footsteps; only he uses his
intelligence and pen to voice out his protest
in the situation of the society.
Jason Bartolome- Jason, the fourth of the
five sons of Amanda and Julian, is negligent
to his studies and seems to have no plans for
the future. Being the favorite son of Julian,
his tragic death brought immense misery to
their family.
Benjamin Bartolome- Benjamin, also known as Bingo, is the
youngest of the five Bartolome siblings. At his young age, he
observed and saw the situation of the society and the events
concerning their family.
 DEKADA `70 by: Lualhati Bautista

View Point
"Dekada '70" by Lualhati Bautista offers a poignant perspective on the
struggles faced by a Filipino family during the Martial Law era in the
Philippines. Through the lens of Amanda Bartolome, the matriarch of
the family, the novel portrays the awakening of consciousness amidst
political turmoil, shedding light on themes of oppression, activism,
and the quest for freedom and identity. Bautista's work provides a
compelling narrative that delves into the personal and societal
ramifications of living under an authoritarian regime.

Plot

Rising Action
Bartolome family’s blissful and normal life changed when Philippine
President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law. They struggled
and faced the changes that empowered Filipinos to rise against the
Marcos government. Amanda showed her stand as a woman having
wanted to achieve other things other than being just a housewife. Also,
due to the martial law, Jules, the eldest son, began to be exposed in
such rebellious acts. His parents already had suspicions about him,
being an anti-Government winger. At first, his parent did not approve
with him but later on, they learned to accept their son’s decision and
eventually became proud of him despite having the fear and
anxiousness of losing him. Since then, their home became a constant
place of recreation for Jules who often brought a friend along with
him.
 DEKADA `70 by: Lualhati Bautista

Plot

Climax
One day, Rene/Domeng, Jules’
friend, stayed with the family for
some time while recuperating
from an injury. Unfortunately, it
was already late when they
realized that Rene/Domeng was
an operative of the government
all this time. He exposed Jules’
participation and involvement in
the NPA movement. Jules was
subsequently sent to prison.
Falling Action
Emmanuel and Jules were
Isagani, the second child, became
partners in fighting the
a member of the navy. However,
government as Emmanuel writes
Gani made a mistake of getting
what Jules dictates. Jason, the
his girlfriend pregnant and
fourth son, is a typical happy-go-
suddenly decided to get married.
lucky teenager who greatly
Their marriage, unfortunately,
enjoys his life. He brings bliss
did not work as his wife still has
and radiance to his family
something to accomplish with
whenever problems come across
her life. On the other hand,
their lives. Unfortunately, Jason
Emmanuel decided to call for
died because the police
peaceful revolution as he wanted
unjustifiably killed him. On the
to become a writer, a noble
other hand, Benjamin was still
profession, which is perfect for
young that time who lacked
his abilities but for practical
broad and deep understanding of
reasons, his father objected his
what was happening around
decision.
him.
 DEKADA `70 by: Lualhati Bautista

Pacing
"Dekada '70" by Lualhati Bautista is
known for its deliberate pacing,
allowing readers to immerse
themselves fully in the story of the
Aguilar family amidst the tumultuous
political landscape of the 1970s
Philippines. The pacing is gradual, yet
purposeful, as it unveils the characters'
struggles, growth, and the societal
changes they navigate. Bautista's prose
captures both the mundane routines
and the significant events, creating a
rich tapestry of historical and personal
narratives.

Dialogue
Julian:
"Bakit mo pinipilit na magtago sa likod ng kusina,
Amanda? Hindi ka ba naiinis sa nangyayari sa bansa?"

Amanda:
"Hindi ko alam kung paano simulan, Julian. Pakiramdam
ko wala akong magagawa."
Julian:
"Kailangan mong magsalita, Amanda. Hindi tayo pwedeng
manahimik habang ang karapatan ng bawat Pilipino ay
kinukuwestiyon."
Amanda:
""Pero ano ang magagawa ko? Ano ang puwede kong
gawin?"
Julian:
"Pwede tayong magsimula sa maliit na bagay. Pag-usapan
natin ito, ipakita ang ating saloobin. Hindi natin dapat
pabayaan ang mga nangyayari sa ating bayan."
DEKADA `70 by: Lualhati Bautista

Style
Dekada '70" by Lualhati Bautista is
written in a straightforward and
poignant style that captures the
tumultuous era of the 1970s in the
Philippines. Bautista employs a blend of
narrative storytelling and introspective
monologues to delve into the socio-
political landscape of the time, while
also exploring the personal struggles
and growth of the characters. The
language is often evocative, allowing
readers to empathize with the
characters' experiences of oppression,
activism, and familial dynamics amidst
a backdrop of martial law and social
unrest. Overall, Bautista's style in
"Dekada '70" is characterized by its raw
honesty and emotional depth.
 DEKADA `70 by: Lualhati Bautista

Beginning, Middles, Endings

In "Dekada '70" by Lualhati Bautista, the beginning introduces the

main characters, particularly Amanda Bartolome and her family,
against the backdrop of the Martial Law era in the Philippines. It
sets the stage for the socio-political turmoil that will shape their lives
throughout the story.

The middle of the novel delves

deeper into the struggles faced by
the Bartolome family as they
navigate the oppressive regime, with
each member experiencing personal
growth, awakening, and rebellion in
their own way. It explores themes of
activism, sacrifice, and the search
for identity amidst the chaos of the
times.

The ending of the novel brings resolution to the characters' journeys,

as they come to terms with the consequences of their actions and the
impact of their choices. It reflects on the lessons learned, the bonds
forged, and the hope for a better future despite the challenges they
have faced. Ultimately, "Dekada '70" ends with a sense of both
closure and ongoing struggle, leaving readers with a profound
reflection on the complexities of history and the resilience of the
human spirit.