English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Lesson 3: The Biographical Context

Table of Contents

Introduction 1
Learning Competencies 2
Learning Targets 2
Warm-Up 2
Learn about It 4
The Biographical Context 4
Importance of Understanding an Author's Life in Literary Analysis 4
Exploring the Author's Life 5
Identifying Themes and Characters 6
Evaluating Influence 7
Shaping Perspectives and Themes 8
Key Points 11
Check Your Understanding 12
Let’s Step Up 13
Self-Assessment 14
Reflection 15
References 16
Answer Key 17

0
English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

3 The Biographical Context

Figure 1. A writer’s life and experiences shape the foundation of his or her writing.

Introduction

In the world of literature, every story is a tapestry woven with the threads of an
author's life experiences, beliefs, and values. As we delve into the biographical
context, we will unravel the intricate connections between an author's life and his or
her literary masterpieces. This exploration will not only enhance our understanding
of literature but also help us appreciate how individuals and communities are
portrayed within the pages of a book. By analyzing the personal and historical
backdrop against which authors penned their works, we will embark on a journey to

1.3. The Biographical Context 1

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry
discover the profound impact of real-life experiences on the world of imagination
and storytelling.

Learning Competencies

At the end of this lesson, the learners should be able to do the following:
● Analyze literary texts as expressions of individual or communal values within
(EN7LIT-I-1).
○ biographical context
● Analyze the maxims, universal truths, and philosophies presented in the literary text
as a means of valuing other people and their various circumstances in life.
(EN7LIT-I-2).

Learning Targets

In this lesson, the learners should be able to do the following:

● Identify and analyze connections between the authors' biographical context and the
themes, characters, or events in their literary works.
● Evaluate how the authors' personal experiences and values may have influenced
their portrayal of certain themes or characters in their works.
● Analyze how the authors' biographical context might have shaped their perspectives
and themes in their literary creations.

Warm-Up

Literary Time Machine

Imagine you have a time machine that can transport you to any era in history. You
have the opportunity to meet your favorite author at a specific moment in his or her
life. Your mission is to engage in a conversation, asking questions about the

1.3. The Biographical Context 2

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry
experiences, inspirations, and the world he or she lived in. Be prepared to take
notes on what you learn from this imaginary encounter.

Guide Questions
1. If you could choose any author to meet and any time period to visit, who would it be
and why?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
2. What questions would you ask the author about his or her life, experiences, and the
events happening during his or her time?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
3. How do you think the author's personal life and historical context might have
influenced his or her writing?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________

Essential
Question How does understanding an author's
biographical context enhance our interpretation
of his or her literary works?

1.3. The Biographical Context 3

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Learn about It

Vocabulary
the personal life, experiences, and historical
biographical
background of an author, which can
context (noun)
influence his or her literary works

motivation the reasons behind an author's actions or

(noun) creative choices in his or her writing

the impact that external factors, such as an

influence
author's life experiences, have on his or her
(noun)
work

The Biographical Context

Biographical context in literature refers to the background information about an
author's life, experiences, and the historical and social circumstances in which he or
she lived. It encompasses details such as the author's upbringing, education, cultural
influences, personal beliefs, and significant life events. This information forms a vital
foundation for comprehending the motivations and inspirations behind an author's
literary works.

The concept can be compared to understanding the backstory of a character in a novel

or the historical context of a particular event. Just as knowing the characters’ history
can deepen our understanding of their actions and decisions, knowing an author's
biographical context can illuminate his or her writings. It is like peering into the
author's world to better appreciate the nuances and layers of his or her storytelling.

Importance of Understanding an Author's Life in Literary Analysis

Understanding an author's life is a fundamental aspect of literary analysis because it
provides a deeper and more nuanced perspective on his or her works. Here is why it is

1.3. The Biographical Context 4

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry
crucial:
● Motivations and Intentions: Knowing an author's life experiences and
personal beliefs helps us decipher his or her motivations and intentions in
writing a particular piece. We can ask questions like, “Why did he or she
choose this theme?” or “What personal experiences might have influenced
this character?”
● Contextualizing Themes and Characters: Biographical context allows us to
connect the dots between an author's life and the themes, characters, or
events in his or her works. For example, if an author grew up during a time of
social upheaval, this context may explain why his or her novel explores
themes of injustice and inequality.
● Evaluating Influence: We can evaluate how an author's personal experiences
and values may have influenced the portrayal of certain themes or characters.
For instance, an author who experienced discrimination may have a unique
perspective when crafting a character facing similar challenges.
● Shaping Perspectives and Themes: Analyzing an author's biographical
context can shed light on how his or her worldview and the prevailing social
and cultural norms of the time shaped the themes and perspectives in his or
her literary creations. This insight adds depth to our interpretation.

Exploring the Author's Life

The author serves as the focal point of the analysis, and his or her writings will be used
to understand the significance of biographical context.

In order to understand the text through the biographical context, it is important to

look into the author's biography. The biography should include essential details such
as the author's
● full name,
● date and place of birth,
● education and academic background,
● career and notable accomplishments,
● any awards or recognition received, and
● a brief overview of his or her literary contributions.

1.3. The Biographical Context 5

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

The author's key life events and experiences will also help us understand significant
milestones, challenges, and personal experiences that may have influenced his or her
writing. We may ask the following questions to discern this:
● Did the author experience any major life changes or crises?
● Were there personal struggles or triumphs that might be reflected in his or
her works?
● Did the author have a unique cultural or social background that influenced his
or her perspective?

The goal is to provide readers with insights into the author's life beyond the surface
details and to help them see the connections between these experiences and the
themes and characters in the author’s literary works.

It is also crucial to explore the historical and social backdrop against which the author
lived and wrote. This can include
● the historical events and movements of the time (e.g., wars, revolutions, social
changes),
● the prevailing cultural and societal norms,
● the author's cultural and ethnic identity, and
● any political or philosophical influences in his or her environment.

The relevance of analyzing biographical context in literature becomes abundantly clear

as we consider how it enriches our reading experience. By peering into an author's life,
we gain valuable insights into the motivations, intentions, and the inspirations that fuel
his or her creativity. This deeper understanding enables us to approach literature with
a discerning eye, recognizing the subtleties and nuances that might otherwise go
unnoticed. Moreover, it fosters a sense of empathy and connection with the author, as
we recognize him or her not merely as a distant figure but as an individual with unique
stories and perspectives.

Identifying Themes and Characters

Equally important is the exploration of the characters that inhabit the literary world.

1.3. The Biographical Context 6

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry
We aim to understand the personalities, behaviors, and roles of these characters
within a story. This analysis goes beyond surface-level observations, urging readers to
delve into the intricacies of characters' minds and the motivations that drive their
actions.

Furthermore, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of discovering connections

between an author's life and the themes and characters within his or her works.
Through this perspective, we can recognize how an author's personal life experiences
profoundly influence the themes explored in his or her literary creations. We
encourage students to pose these critical questions:
● How might the author's personal life experiences have contributed to the
themes he or she delves into?
● Which aspects of the author's life could have impacted the creation and
evolution of specific characters within his or her works?

This analytical process serves as a portal into understanding the intricate tapestry of
an author's storytelling, wherein his or her life intertwines with his or her artistry.

Evaluating Influence
Authors often draw from personal experiences and values when creating literary
works. These experiences can encompass a wide range of life events, including
triumphs, challenges, or adversities. For instance, consider an author who personally
experienced discrimination or social injustice. Such experiences can deeply influence
his or her portrayal of characters or themes related to these issues. When crafting a
character who faces similar challenges, the author may infuse the character with
emotions, reactions, and struggles that resonate with his or her experiences.

This evaluation process allows readers to explore the authenticity and depth of
characters and themes within a literary work. It invites questions like, “How does the
character's response to discrimination reflect the author's personal insights?” or “In
what ways does the author's unique perspective contribute to a richer exploration of
themes like social justice or inequality?” By evaluating influence, readers gain a deeper
understanding of how an author's life becomes a wellspring of inspiration that shapes
his or her storytelling.

1.3. The Biographical Context 7

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Shaping Perspectives and Themes

Analyzing an author's biographical context also illuminates how his or her worldview
and the historical, social, and cultural norms of the era mold the themes and
perspectives present in his or her literary creations. An author is a product of his or her
time, and written works often serve as a reflection of that societal milieu. For instance,
if an author lived during a time of profound social change or cultural transformation,
his or her works may echo the upheaval and evolving norms of that period.

Readers can explore how the author's awareness of these external factors contributes
to the depth and authenticity of themes within the text. Questions may arise, such as,
“How do the author's personal beliefs align with or challenge prevailing cultural
norms?” or “In what ways does the historical context of the author's life find resonance
in the themes explored in the work?” This analytical process enriches interpretation by
providing a contextual backdrop that helps readers appreciate the intricacies and
layers of the text.

Let us analyze the poem “The Song of the Traveler” by José Rizal, a renowned Filipino
poet and national hero. This poem reflects Rizal's own experiences as a traveler and
exile, providing a rich opportunity to explore biographical context.

The Song of the Traveler

José Rizal
(translated by Arthur P. Ferguson)

Like to a leaf that is fallen and withered,

Tossed by the tempest from pole unto pole;
Thus roams the pilgrim abroad without purpose,
Roams without love, without country or soul.

Following anxiously treacherous fortune,

Fortune which e’en as he grasps at it flees;

1.3. The Biographical Context 8

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Vain though the hopes that his yearning is seeking,

Yet does the pilgrim embark on the seas!

Ever impelled by invisible power,

Destined to roam from the East to the West;
Oft he remembers the faces of loved ones,
Dreams of the day when he, too, was at rest.

Chance may assign him a tomb on the desert,

Grant him a final asylum of peace;
Soon by the world and his country forgotten,
God rest his soul when his wanderings cease!

Often the sorrowful pilgrim is envied,

Circling the globe like a sea-gull above;
Little, ah, little they know what a void
Saddens his soul by the absence of love.

Home may the pilgrim return in the future,

Back to his loved ones his footsteps he bends;
Naught will he find but the snow and the ruins,
Ashes of love and the tomb of his friends.

Pilgrim, begone! Nor return more hereafter.

Stranger thou art in the land of thy birth;
Others may sing of their love while rejoicing,
Thou once again must roam o’er the earth.

Pilgrim, begone! Nor return more hereafter,

Dry are the tears that a while for thee ran;
Pilgrim, begone! And forget thy affliction,
Loud laughs the world at the sorrows of man.

1.3. The Biographical Context 9

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Themes
The poem delves into several central themes, including exile, longing, purpose, and
identity. These themes are not only integral to the poem's narrative but also resonate
deeply with the experiences and beliefs of its author, José Rizal.

Characters
The central character in the poem is the pilgrim, a figure who embodies the emotions
and struggles of an individual adrift in the world, detached from a sense of home and
belonging. This character serves as the vehicle through which Rizal explores his own
experiences as an exile and patriot.

Biographical Context
To truly understand the poem's essence, we must consider the biographical context of
José Rizal. He was a Filipino nationalist, intellectual, and a pivotal figure in the struggle
for Filipino independence during the Spanish colonial period. Rizal himself experienced
exile, persecution, and a deep sense of disconnect from his homeland due to his
revolutionary activities. This context is crucial in comprehending the poem's themes of
exile, longing for one's country, and the quest for identity.

Evaluating Influence
José Rizal's personal experiences and values significantly influenced his portrayal of the
pilgrim and the exploration of themes in the poem. As an individual who faced
discrimination and oppression under Spanish colonial rule, Rizal's firsthand encounters
with injustice likely informed the character's struggles. Rizal's commitment to the
Filipino cause is reflected in the pilgrim's unwavering pursuit of purpose, echoing the
author's own dedication to the fight for Filipino independence.

Shaping Perspectives and Themes

Rizal's biographical context, marked by his experiences as an exile and his
observations of colonial Philippines, deeply shaped the themes and perspectives in
“The Song of the Traveler.” His personal perspective as an exile is mirrored in the
pilgrim's wanderings and sense of displacement. Furthermore, Rizal's profound

1.3. The Biographical Context 10

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry
concern for the plight of his fellow Filipinos and his vision for their liberation are
intertwined with the poem's themes of longing and yearning for a brighter future.
Rizal's unique worldview as a patriot and reformist underscores the thematic depth of
the literary work.

In essence, “The Song of the Traveler” serves as a poignant reflection of José Rizal's
own life and beliefs. Through the pilgrim's journey, Rizal channels his experiences as
an exile and his commitment to social justice, offering readers a window into his world.
The poem is a testament to the enduring connection between the author's life and his
art, showcasing how personal struggles, aspirations, and values can find resonance in
the themes, characters, and perspectives he creates.

Let’s Check In

What key aspects of an author's life should you consider when

analyzing biographical context in literature, and how do these
aspects contribute to a deeper understanding of the work?

Key Points

● Biographical context is crucial for understanding an author's motivations and the

influences behind his or her literary creations.
● It helps us identify connections between an author's life and the themes, characters,
or events in his or her works.
● Analyzing an author's biographical context can provide insights into how personal
experiences shape the perspectives and themes in his or her works of literature.

1.3. The Biographical Context 11

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Check Your Understanding

Read the text and answer the questions that follow.

My Retreat (excerpt)
José Rizal
(translated by Charles Derbyshire)

So onward glide the days in my lonely abode;

Driven forth from the world where once I was known,
I muse o’er the fate upon me bestow’d;
A fragment forgotten that the moss will corrode,
To hide from mankind the world in me shown.

I live in the thought of the lov’d ones left,

And oft their names to my mind are borne;
Some have forsaken me and some by death are reft;
But now ’tis all one, as through the past I drift,
That past which from me can never be torn.

For it is the friend that is with me always,

That ever in sorrow keeps the faith in my soul;
While through the still night it watches and prays,
As here in my exile in my lone hut it stays,
To strengthen my faith when doubts o’er me roll.

That faith I keep and I hope to see shine

The day when the Idea prevails over might;
When after the fray and death’s slow decline,
Some other voice sounds, far happier than mine,
To raise the glad song of the triumph of right.

1.3. The Biographical Context 12

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

1. In the poem “My Retreat,” how does the speaker describe his or her solitude
and isolation? What emotions or feelings are conveyed?
2. Identify any literary devices or figurative language used in the poem, such as
metaphors, similes, or personification. How do these devices contribute to
the poem's meaning?
3. Consider the theme of faith and hope in the poem. How does the speaker's
faith in his or her retreat and the Idea sustain him or her in solitude?
4. Reflect on the significance of the title, “My Retreat.” What does the word
retreat signify in the context of the poem, and how does it relate to the
speaker's experiences?
5. How might knowledge of José Rizal's biographical context, particularly his
own exile and activism, influence your interpretation of this poem?

Let’s Step Up

Reflect on the themes of solitude, faith, and hope in the poem “My Retreat” by José
Rizal. How might these themes resonate with Rizal's own life and aspirations for his
homeland? Provide examples from the poem to support your analysis.

1.3. The Biographical Context 13

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Self-Assessment

I think I need I have a minimal I am confident

Skills more time and understanding of that I can do this
assistance. it. with ease.

Identify and
analyze
connections
between the
authors'
biographical
context and the
themes, characters,
or events in their
literary works.

Evaluate how the

authors' personal
experiences and
values may have
influenced their
portrayal of certain
themes or
characters in their
works.

Analyze how the

authors'
biographical
context might have
shaped their
perspectives and
themes in their
literary creations.

1.3. The Biographical Context 14

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Reflection

I find ______________________ the most interesting because ________________________________.

I need to improve on ________________________ because ___________________________________.

I need to practice _________________________ because ______________________________________.

I plan to ___________________________________________________________________________________

1.3. The Biographical Context 15

English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

References

Bertens, Hans. 2014. Literary Theory: the basics, 3rd ed. London: Routledge.

Brooker, Peter, Raman Selden, and Peter Widdowson. 2005. A Reader’s Guide to Contemporary
Literary Theory, 5th ed. Great Britain: Pearson Education.

Craig, Austin. 1913. Lineage, Life and Labors of José Rizal, Philippine Patriot. Project Gutenberg, January
8, 2005. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/6867.

Eagleton, Terry. 1996. Literary Theory: An Introduction, 2nd ed. New York: Taylor and Francis.

1.3. The Biographical Context 16

 English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Answer Key

Let’s Check In
What key aspects of an author's life should you consider when analyzing biographical
context in literature, and how do these aspects contribute to a deeper understanding of
the work?

Answer: When analyzing an author's biographical context in literature, several key aspects
of the author's life should be considered. These aspects include the author's upbringing,
education, cultural background, personal experiences, and significant life events. By
examining these facets, we can gain a deeper understanding of the author's motivations,
perspectives, and influences that shape his or her literary works.

For example, understanding an author's upbringing can provide insights into his or her
early influences and values. The author’s education can reveal his or her intellectual
background and the ideas he or she may have been exposed to. Cultural background can
shed light on the cultural norms, traditions, and societal expectations that influenced the
author's worldview. Personal experiences and significant life events may have shaped his
or her emotional and philosophical outlook, which can be reflected in his or her writing.

Considering these aspects contributes to a deeper understanding of the author's work by

allowing readers to connect the dots between the author's life and the themes, characters,
or events in his or her literature. It helps readers decipher the author's motivations for
addressing certain topics or exploring specific themes. In essence, analyzing biographical
context enhances our ability to appreciate the depth and richness of an author's literary
creations.

1.3. The Biographical Context 17

 English 7

Unit 1: Poetry

Check Your Understanding

1. In the poem “My Retreat,” how does the speaker describe his or her solitude and
isolation? What emotions or feelings are conveyed?
Possible answer: In the poem “My Retreat,” the speaker describes the solitude as a
form of refuge from the world. The speaker conveys feelings of isolation,
introspection, and contemplation.
2. Identify any literary devices or figurative language used in the poem, such as
metaphors, similes, or personification. How do these devices contribute to the
poem's meaning?
Possible answer: The poem uses personification when it describes the past as “that
past which from me can never be torn.” This personification emphasizes the
enduring impact of the past on the speaker's present. Additionally, the word
fragment may be seen as a metaphor for the speaker's sense of self.
3. Consider the theme of faith and hope in the poem. How does the speaker's faith in
his or her retreat and the Idea sustain him or her in solitude?
Possible answer: The theme of faith and hope is evident in the speaker's belief that
the act of retreat and having faith in the Idea will sustain him or her. This faith in
solitude serves as a source of strength and resilience.
4. Reflect on the significance of the title, “My Retreat.” What does the word retreat
signify in the context of the poem, and how does it relate to the speaker's
experiences?
Possible answer: The title “My Retreat” signifies a place of withdrawal or seclusion,
where the speaker finds solace and reflection. It relates to the speaker's experiences
of being isolated from the world.
5. How might knowledge of José Rizal's biographical context, particularly his own exile
and activism, influence your interpretation of this poem?
Possible answer: Knowledge of José Rizal's biographical context, including his own
period of exile and his role as a Filipino nationalist, may lead to interpretations that
connect the poem to Rizal's personal experiences of political exile and his dedication
to the cause of Philippine independence.

1.3. The Biographical Context 18