TLDR;
This video summarizes Aurelio B. Tolentino's play "Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow," a powerful protest against American occupation written in 1903. The play, divided into three parts representing the past, present, and future, uses symbolic characters to depict the Philippines' history of struggle, betrayal, and the hope for liberation. The video explains the symbolism of each character and summarizes each scene, highlighting the play's message of nationalism and the pursuit of freedom.
- The play is a protest against American occupation written in 1903.
- It is divided into three parts: yesterday, today, and tomorrow, representing the past, present, and future.
- Symbolic characters represent the Philippines' history of struggle and hope for liberation.
Characters and Their Symbolism [1:36]
The play features several symbolic characters. Motherland represents the Philippines, oppressed but fighting for freedom. Blind as Hell symbolizes Spain, blind to justice and continuing oppression. New Sprout represents America, the new invader with hidden interests. Masonurin symbolizes the submissive Filipino woman, while Tagailog represents the Filipino revolutionaries willing to sacrifice for freedom. Matang Lawin symbolizes the oppressive Spanish government, and We Are Aware represents the deceptive American government. Asal is an Animal symbolizes the Tagalog traitors, King Bata represents the Chinese influence, and Monster represents the oppressive masses under colonial rule.
Asal Hayop's Betrayal [4:09]
In ancient times, Asal Hayop betrayed his homeland for wealth, disregarding his motherland's suffering. This scene depicts the betrayal of Filipinos who prioritized personal gain over their country's well-being, setting the stage for foreign invasion and oppression.
The Arrival of King Bata [4:28]
King Bata, representing Chinese influence, arrives dressed in golden clothes and attempts to claim the motherland but is stopped by Tagailog. This scene symbolizes the initial resistance against foreign invaders and the defense of the homeland.
Battle Between Tagailog and King Bata [4:53]
A fierce battle ensues between Tagailog and King Bata, with Tagailog ultimately defeating the king. This symbolizes the Filipinos' determination to defend their land and the initial victories against foreign powers, restoring hope to the motherland.
Punishment for Asal Hayop [5:19]
Asal Hayop is punished for his betrayal, tied to a pole and engulfed in flames. This scene serves as a warning against betraying the people and highlights the consequences of prioritizing personal gain over national interests.
The Arrival of Blind as Hell [5:50]
Blind as Hell, representing Spain, arrives and initially shows friendship but gradually reveals deception and oppression. This scene depicts the false pretenses of the Spanish colonizers and the gradual unveiling of their true oppressive nature.
The Emergence of New Sprout [6:17]
From the darkness, New Sprout emerges, holding the Philippine flag and symbolizing a new generation ready to fight for freedom. This scene represents hope and the rise of a new generation committed to liberating the country from foreign rule.
Hardship Under the Americans [6:42]
The Americans arrive and enslave the motherland, forcing Filipinos into hard labor and banning their language. This scene illustrates the continued oppression under American rule and the suppression of Filipino culture and identity.
Burning of the American Flag [7:09]
New Sprout bravely throws the American flag into the fire, igniting a fire of emotion in the hearts of Filipinos and sparking a strong cry of resistance. This act symbolizes defiance against American oppression and the rekindling of the desire for freedom.
Rise of the Motherland [7:35]
Despite the sorrow, the motherland rises again, holding the Philippine flag and symbolizing stability and hope. This scene signifies the resilience of the Filipino people and their unwavering hope for a new dawn of freedom.
Arrival of the Liberated People [8:01]
Symbols of the future arrive, bringing light, courage, and faith in the promise of freedom. Together, they promote the dream of a free nation, culminating in a unified cry for freedom from all the children of the town. This scene represents the culmination of the struggle and the collective hope for true liberation, with the voices of the people becoming a sign of unity and a new dawn for the nation.