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.
