URBANA

AND
FELIZA
Written by Modesto De Castro
VALUES
ETHICS
MORALS
BOND
e's how these elements are interrelated:
• Literature often reflects the values and morals of a
society. Authors use their works to explore, critique, or
reinforce the prevailing ethical standards of their time.
• Many literary works, especially fables, parables, and
allegories, are designed to impart moral lessons.
Through characters and plot developments, authors
convey values and ethical principles.
• Literature often delves into complex ethical dilemmas,
forcing characters (and readers) to confront
challenging situations The exploration of these
dilemmas can stimulate discussions about ethical
frameworks, right versus wrong, and the
consequences of choices.
e's how these elements are interrelated:
• Literature serves as a repository of cultural values,
reflecting the beliefs, customs, and traditions of a
community. Through stories, myths, and folklore,
authors preserve and transmit cultural norms.
• Literature has the power to evoke empathy by
placing readers in the shoes of diverse characters
with different moral perspectives. This fosters a
deeper understanding of the complexity of ethical
considerations.
• Literature frequently explores interpersonal
relationships, highlighting the importance of bonds
between individuals. These relationships can
embody moral principles and ethical considerations.
AUTHOR’S BACKGROUND
M O D E S T O D E C A S T R O
Is the author of the novel “Urbana and Feliza”, it was
first published in Manila in 1864.

Modesto de Castro, born in 1857, was a Filipino writer

whose life experiences and cultural background greatly
influenced his writing.

Educated during the Spanish colonial period, De Castro's

exposure to Spanish literature and the socio-political
climate of the Philippines shaped his literary style.
HISTORICAL O V E RV I E W O F
C O N T E X T: "URBANA AND
"Urbana at Feliza" was FELIZA”
penned during the time "Urbana at Feliza" was
wherein it was marked first published in 1864
by Spanish colonization in the newspaper
in the Philippines, "Diario de Manila,"
reflecting the cultural making it a significant
and social nuances of literary contribution
the era. during that period.
“URBANA AND FELIZA”
 S U M M A RY
Urbana and Feliza are sisters. Urbana as the oldest followed by Feliza
and their brother Honesto. They lived in a humble home in Bulacan.
Feliza always admired her sister Urbana when it comes to values and
traits as a true “Dalagang Filipina”. One day, she woke up with an
empty bed. She then realized that her sister Urbana left for Manila. To
keep in touch with each other, they both exchange their stories
through letters. Feliza, who was left in their hometown in Paombong
Bulacan, asks for her older sister’s advice who study in an exclussive
school for girls in Manila, knowing that she knows what’s the right
thing to do.
The two sisters talk about etiquettes , proper gestures, and ways on
how to act in various situations. Urbana also reprimands their
youngest brother Honesto to not engage in vices, fights, and not to
hang out with bad people. The letters exchanged were about normal
events from their day to day lives. Until the point where Feliza asks
her sister on what she should do about her suitor Amadeo. Feliza has
second thoughts about marrying Amadeo. But she pushed through the
wedding after Urbana settled her doubts and fears. The last part of
Feliza's letter is about their fathers death. Stating that their father
wanted Urbana to know he died after he is burried because he doens't
want to her make Urbana sad. And the last letter of Urbana says that
she will pursue in being a nun.
KEY POINTS

Feliza seeks guidance from Urbana, recognizing her

sister’s wisdom and understanding of proper conduct. The
story delves into etiquette, appropriate behavior, and
navigating various situations.

The names themselves carry symbolic meanings:

“Urbana” signifies good manners (Urbanidad), while
“Feliza” represents happiness attained through virtue and
obedience. Their brother, Honesto, embodies purity of
heart and honor.
KEY POINTS

In this timeless tale, the sisters’ correspondence

transcends physical distance, emphasizing the
enduring bond of family and the importance of moral
values.

Its author used the epistolary style wherein a series of

letters, and the two main characters gave each other
advice on the ideal conduct and behavior expected of a
middle-class and Christian family.
 GENRE AND
STYLE:
-It is a prime example of
satirical literature,
employing humor, irony, and
exaggeration to convey
moral lessons.
-The conversational and
didactic style employed by
De Castro adds a distinctive
flair to the satirical essays.
THEMES AND MOTIFS:
-The central theme of "Urbana
at Feliza" revolves around
moral instruction, using
characters like Urbana and
Feliza to impart valuable life
lessons.
-Traditional Filipino values,
such as respect for elders and
familial piety, are deeply
embedded in the novel.
CHARACTERS AND C O N T E N T A N D A N A LY S I S :
SETTING:
-Urbana and Feliza serve as
central characters, with Urbana
representing moral guidance
and Feliza embodying virtuous
qualities.
-The socio-cultural setting
within the Spanish colonial
Philippines adds depth to the
characters' experiences and the
overall narrative.
- Within "Urbana and Feliza,"
specific particular parts, stand
out for their thematic
significance and literary
techniques.
-It provides a lens through
which De Castro addresses
societal issues of the time,
offering readers valuable
insights.
 SOCIAL C U LT U R A L S I G N I F I C A N C E :
COMMENTARY:

De Castro's novel The use of language,

critique societal norms,
including social
hierarchy, education, and
societal expectations
during the Spanish
colonial era.
including local idioms and
expressions, adds cultural
richness to the work,
contributing to the
preservation of Filipino
cultural identity.
 LEGACY PERSONAL
REFLECTION:

Today, "Urbana at Personally, the themes and

Feliza" continues to be messages in "Urbana at
utilized in educational Feliza" resonate with
settings in the contemporary societal
Philippines, showcasing issues, underscoring the
its enduring legacy in timelessness of de Castro's
Philippine literature. insights.
REFERENCES
https://prezi.com/m2v2pbxxkkdl/urbana-at-feliza/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371574060_Ur
bana_at_Feliza_A_Cultural_Analysis_of_Women_Oppre
ssion_in_the_Philippines_During_the_Spanish_Period

https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2014/09/08/13
66469/how-relevant-urbana-feliza-today

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=urbana+
and+feliza+story