Module 1: Asian Literature

Lesson Overview
Asian literature encompasses a rich tapestry of works that reflect the continent’s diverse cultures, histories, and
philosophies. This lesson introduces students to significant literary traditions from China, Japan, and India,
highlighting their unique characteristics, themes, and notable authors. Through analysis and interpretation,
students will gain a deeper understanding of how these works resonate with universal human experiences.

PRETEST
Direction: Choose the letter of your answer.
1.
Excerpt:
“The country is broken, though hills and rivers remain;
In the city, spring trees and grasses are thick.”
1.1. This excerpt is from which country?
a.) Japan
b.) India
c.) China
d.) Korea
1.2. Who is the author of this excerpt?
a.) Li Bai
b.) Du Fu
c.) Matsuo Bashō
d.) Vyasa
1.3. What type of literary work is this?
a.) Haiku
b.) Poem (Lushi)
c.) Epic
d.) Fable

2.
Excerpt:
“Amongst the flowers with a pot of wine,
I drink alone without a friend in sight.”
2.1. Country of origin?
a.) India
b.) Japan
c.) China
d.) Thailand
2.2. Who is the author of this excerpt?
a.) Du Fu
b.) Li Bai
c.) Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
d.) Vishnu Sharma
2.3. What type of literary work is this?
a.) Epic
b.) Tanka
c.) Romantic/Nature Poem
d.) Haiku

3.
Excerpt:
“An old silent pond…
A frog jumps into the pond—
Splash! Silence again.”
3.1. This excerpt is from which country?
a.) Japan
b.) China
c.) India
d.) Korea
3.2. Who is the author of this excerpt?
a.) Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
b.) Matsuo Bashō
c.) Li Bai
d.) Vyasa
3.3. What type of literary work is this?
a.) Haiku
b.) Tanka
c.) Epic
d.) Fable

4.
Excerpt (Tanka, 5-7-5-7-7):
“With the passing clouds,
My longing grows in silence,
As the evening falls,
I watch the distant mountains,
Dreams linger in my heart.”
4.1. This excerpt is from which country?
a.) India
b.) China
c.) Japan
d.) Korea
4.2. Who is the author of this excerpt r?
a.) Matsuo Bashō
b.) Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
c.) Li Bai
d.) Vishnu Sharma
4.3. What type of literary work is this?
a.) Haiku
b.) Tanka
c.) Epic
d.) Fable

5.
Excerpt:
“Whenever there is dharma and adharma declines,
I manifest myself to protect the virtuous and destroy the wicked.”
5.1. This excerpt is from which country?
a.) Japan
b.) China
c.) India
d.) Nepal
5.2. Who is the author of this excerpt?
a.) Vyasa
b.) Valmiki
c.) Vishnu Sharma
 d.) Du Fu
5.3. What type of literary work is this?
a.) Epic / Philosophical Text
b.) Haiku
c.) Tanka
d.) Fable

6.
Excerpt:
“The clever crow outwitted the greedy fox, saving its friends from danger.”
6.1. This excerpt is from which country?
a.) India
b.) China
c.) Japan
d.) Sri Lanka
6.2. Who is the author of this excerpt?
a.) Vyasa
b.) Valmiki
c.) Vishnu Sharma
d.) Matsuo Bashō
6.3. What type of literary work is this?
a.) Epic
b.) Fable / Animal Story
c.) Haiku
d.) Tanka

Lesson 1
Chinese Literature
Learning Objectives
After working through this module, you will be able to:
1. Trace the historical development of Chinese literature.
2. Identify the major writers and works in different literary periods.
3. Analyze selected poems of Du Fu and Li Bai.
4. Write a short close analysis and critical interpretation of a Chinese literary piece.

Activity 1 – Unlocking Knowledge

Look at these questions and reflect before reading further:

1. What do you already know about Chinese culture?
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2. Have you read or heard of any Chinese stories, myths, or novels? Write them down.
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Chinese literature includes a wide array of written works in poetry, prose, philosophy, and drama.
Spanning over two millennia, it offers deep insights into Chinese culture, social life, and historical events.
Chinese literature emphasizes harmony with nature, moral integrity, and philosophical reflection. Classical
poetry, particularly from the Tang Dynasty, is known for its strict tonal patterns and regulated forms. Common
themes include societal issues, personal emotions, and historical events. Elegance, precision, and rhythmic
control are hallmarks of classical Chinese writing.

History of Chinese Literature

Chinese literature is one of the world’s oldest continuous traditions, spanning more than 3,000 years. It
has always been deeply connected to philosophy, politics, and social change, reflecting the values and struggles
of Chinese civilization across dynasties.

 Origins and Classical Foundations (c. 1200 BCE – 220 CE) began with the oracle bones of the Shang
Dynasty, which contain the earliest known Chinese writing used for divination. During the Zhou Dynasty,
the Classic of Poetry (Shijing) was compiled, containing 305 poems on rituals, court life, and folk songs.
This period also saw the rise of philosophical texts, including Confucius’ Analects, Laozi’s Tao Te Ching,
and the works of Zhuangzi, all of which emphasized morality, governance, and harmony with nature. By the
Han Dynasty, historical writing and literature flourished. Sima Qian’s Records of the Grand Historian
(Shiji) became a cornerstone of Chinese historiography, while fu poetry—a mix of verse and prose—offered
elaborate descriptions. The Confucian classics also became the foundation of education and government
service.

 Tang Dynasty (618–907) is celebrated as the Golden Age of Chinese poetry. Poets such as Du Fu, known
as the “Poet-Historian,” captured the hardships of war and poverty, while Li Bai, the “Poet-Immortal,”
wrote imaginative and romantic poems inspired by nature and friendship. Poetry was considered an essential
part of education and civil service, giving it an enduring cultural influence.
 In the Song Dynasty (960–1279), literature took on new lyrical forms. Ci poetry, which was written to
musical tunes, became the dominant style, while prose also flourished. Writers like Su Shi (Su Dongpo)
blended philosophy, politics, and personal reflection in their works, and Neo-Confucian writings shaped
intellectual life.

 Yuan Dynasty (1279–1368) marked the rise of Chinese drama. With Mongol rule limiting official literary
activities, theater became a popular outlet. Zaju plays, structured in four acts with music, became especially
famous. One of the best-known works of this period is The Romance of the Western Chamber by Wang
Shifu, a love story that challenged social norms.

 Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) Dynasties produced the Four Great Classical Novels, which
remain among the most influential works in Chinese and world literature. These are Romance of the Three
Kingdoms by Luo Guanzhong, focusing on war and strategy; Journey to the West by Wu Cheng’en, an
adventurous tale of the Monkey King; Water Margin by Shi Nai’an, about rebellion and brotherhood; and
Dream of the Red Chamber by Cao Xueqin, a Qing masterpiece about love, family decline, and society.
During this period, novels became widely read by the general public, marking a shift toward popular
literature.

 Modern Era (20th Century), Chinese literature underwent major transformation. The May Fourth
Movement (1910s–1920s) called for the use of vernacular Chinese (baihua) instead of classical styles,
making literature more accessible. Writers like Lu Xun led the movement with works such as Diary of a
Madman and The True Story of Ah Q, which criticized feudalism and tradition. Literature became a tool for
nationalism, reform, and political ideology. During the 1930s and 1940s, left-wing and wartime writings
dominated, and after the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, literature often served as
propaganda under socialist realism until the Cultural Revolution restricted artistic freedom.

 Contemporary Literature (1978–present) reflects China’s social transformation after the post-Mao
reforms. Writers began addressing trauma, identity, and modern challenges. Movements such as Scar
Literature explored the wounds of the Cultural Revolution, while Misty Poetry used symbolic, indirect
expression. Modern Chinese literature has also gained international recognition: Mo Yan won the 2012
Nobel Prize for Red Sorghum, Gao Xingjian received the Nobel Prize in 2000 for Soul Mountain, and Yu
 Hua became renowned for To Live. Chinese science fiction has also emerged globally, with Liu Cixin’s The
Three-Body Problem earning worldwide acclaim.

Major Writers and Works:

1. Du Fu (712–770)
Du Fu lived during the Tang Dynasty, often called the “Poet-Historian” of China. He experienced the turmoil of
the An Lushan Rebellion, which deeply influenced his writings. He is celebrated for combining personal
emotion with social and historical commentary.

Literary Contributions
Du Fu is renowned for his lushi (regulated verse) poems, characterized by strict tonal patterns, eight-line
structures, and rich imagery. His works often explore the hardships of war, societal suffering, and moral
responsibility.

Major Works:
o Spring View (Chun Wang)
o Ballad of the Army Carts
o A Song of My Cares
o Various lushi collections reflecting historical events

2. Li Bai (701–762)
Li Bai, also known as Li Po, was a contemporary of Du Fu and is often referred to as the “Poet Immortal.”
Known for his free-spirited lifestyle and Daoist inclinations, he frequently celebrated nature, friendship, and the
joys of drinking in his poetry. His style is less formal than Du Fu’s, emphasizing emotion and imagination over
strict structure.

Literary Contributions
Li Bai’s poetry is famous for its lyrical beauty, romantic imagery, and celebration of nature and the human
spirit. He helped popularize romantic and imaginative verse forms in the Tang Dynasty.

Major Works:
o Quiet Night Thoughts (Jing Ye Si)
o Drinking Alone by Moonlight (Yuexia Du Zhuo)
o Bring in the Wine (Ji Jiu)
o Various nature-inspired poems

Assessment 1 – Reading Timeline

Complete the organizer by filling in the blanks with the period, writer, and key work. You may also use another
format and present it creatively.
Timeline of Chinese Literature
Period Major Writer Example Work Key Contribution
Shang & Zhou __________ __________ __________
Tang Dynasty __________ __________ __________
Yuan Dynasty __________ __________ __________
Ming & Qing __________ __________ __________
Modern Era __________ __________ __________
Contemporary __________ __________ __________
Assessment 2 – Literary Comparison and Analysis
Read these poems in English translation.

Du Fu – “Spring View”

Though a country be sundered, hills and rivers endure;

And spring comes green again to trees and grasses
Where petals have been shed like tears
And lonely birds have sung their grief.
...After the war-fires of three months,
One message from home is worth a ton of gold.
...I stroke my white hair. It has grown too thin
To hold the hairpins any more.
A Spring View by Du Fu - Chinese Poetry

Li Bai – “Quiet Night Thoughts”

Before my bed, the bright moonlight —

I thought it was frost upon the ground.
I lift my head and gaze at the bright moon,
I lower my head and think of home.
Deep Readings: Li Bai – Quiet Night Thoughts «

Direction: On a long bond paper, analyze the themes, tone, and style of each poem. Then, draw a Venn Diagram
and write Du Fu’s unique traits on the left circle, Li Bai’s unique traits on the right circle, and their similarities
in the overlapping middle section.

Du Fu Similarities
Li Bai

Assessment 3- Text Analysis and Interpretation

Read the English translation of Battle Chu’ü Yüan – translated by Arthur Waley
Battle
Chu’ü Yüan
translated by Arthur Waley

“We grasp our battle-spears: we don our breast-plates of hide.

The axles of our chariots touch: our short swords meet.
Standards obscure the sun: the foe roll up like clouds.
Arrows fall thick: the warriors press forward.
They menace our ranks: they break our line.
The left-hand trace-horse is dead: the one on the right is smitten.
The fallen horses block our wheels: they impede the yoke-horses!”
 They grasp their jade drum-sticks: they beat the sounding drums.
Heaven decrees their fall: the dread Powers are angry.
The warriors are all dead: they lie on the moor-field.
They issued but shall not enter: they went but shall not return.
The plains are flat and wide: the way home is long.
Their swords lie beside them: their blacks bows, in their hand.
Though their limbs were torn, their hearts could not be repressed.
They were more than brave: they were inspired with the spirit of “Wu.”
Steadfast to the end, they could not be daunted.
Their bodies were stricken, but their souls have taken Immortality –
Captains among the ghosts, heroes among the dead.

Chinese Poems - Translations of Chu’ü Yüan and Yu Xiuhua - Studocu

Direction: On a long bond paper, write an in-depth analysis and interpretation of the poem using both the
formalist and sociocultural approaches. Focus on how the poem reflects the culture, values, and traditions of the
Chinese people, as seen in its themes, tone, style, imagery, and structure. Present your analysis in well-written
paragraph/s.

Guide Questions:
1. What central idea or message does the poem express?
2. What emotions or attitudes are conveyed about war, bravery, or loyalty?
3. What pictures of Chinese life, beliefs, or traditions can you see in the poem?
4. What language features (choice of words, figures of speech, rhythm) emphasize these cultural values?
5. How is the poem arranged, and how does this reflect traditional forms of Chinese poetry?
6. What does the poem reveal about the culture, traditions, and worldview of the Chinese people during
this period? (e.g., values of bravery, honor, immortality, respect for the spirits).

Lesson 2
Japanese Literature
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
1. Trace the historical development of Japanese literature.
2. Identify and analyze the works of major Japanese writers.
3. Explain the cultural and aesthetic values reflected in Japanese literature.
4. Write a simple literary analysis or a creative piece inspired by Japanese literary forms.

Activity 1 – Unlocking Knowledge

1. When you hear the word Japan, what comes to mind? Write at least 3 ideas. (e.g., cherry blossoms,
anime, samurai, temples).
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2. Do you know any Japanese cultural traditions (such as origami, tea ceremony, haiku)? Write them down.
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3. How do you think a country’s culture influences its literature?
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 Japanese literature encompasses works written primarily in Japanese, though early texts were influenced
by Chinese literature. It reflects Japan's unique cultural and aesthetic values.
Japanese literature values brevity, elegance, and a deep connection to nature. Poetic forms such as haiku and
tanka emphasize concise expression and seasonal imagery. Early works often incorporate Buddhist themes and
Chinese influences, while later works develop uniquely Japanese styles that emphasize introspection and
aesthetic sensitivity.

History of Japanese Literature

Japanese literature has a long and rich tradition that reflects the cultural, religious, and philosophical
changes of Japan throughout the centuries. While it began under strong Chinese influence, it gradually
developed into a unique literary tradition that values brevity, elegance, and a deep sensitivity to nature.

 Early Literature of the Nara Period (710–794 CE) marks the beginnings of Japanese writing. The earliest
works were composed in Classical Chinese, since writing was introduced from Korea and China. Significant
texts include the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters, 712) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan, 720),
which preserve Shinto myths, early legends, and imperial history. The most celebrated anthology of this
period is the Man’yōshū (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves), compiled around 759 CE, containing over
4,500 poems written in tanka, choka, and sedoka forms. These works established Japan’s poetic and
mythological foundation.

 Classical Period or Heian Era (794–1185 CE) is considered the golden age of Japanese literature. During
this time, court culture flourished and the development of the kana syllabary allowed Japanese writers—
particularly women—to compose in their native language. Notable works include the Kokin Wakashū
(905), the first imperial anthology of waka poetry; The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu, regarded as the
world’s first novel, which explores romance, human emotions, and court life; and The Pillow Book by Sei
Shōnagon, a collection of essays, lists, and observations that provide vivid insights into Heian society.

 Medieval Period (1185–1600 CE) coincided with the rise of the samurai class and a time of political
upheaval. Literature reflected Buddhist and Zen influences, often focusing on the concept of impermanence
(mujo). War tales such as The Tale of the Heike narrated the Genpei War, while Noh drama blended
poetry, music, and dance to explore themes of karma and redemption. This era also saw the development of
renga, or linked verse poetry, which later evolved into the haiku form.

 Early Modern Period (Edo Period, 1600–1868 CE) was marked by peace and prosperity under the
Tokugawa shogunate, which allowed popular culture and literature to thrive. The haiku reached its height
through the works of Matsuo Bashō, whose poetry combined nature with Zen-inspired reflection.
Playwright Chikamatsu Monzaemon produced both puppet theater (jōruri) and kabuki plays, exploring
themes of love, duty, and tragedy. Meanwhile, ukiyo-zōshi, or “books of the floating world,” depicted urban
life, the pleasure quarters, and the merchant class, showing literature’s shift toward broader audiences.

 Modern Period (1868–present) began with the Meiji Restoration, when Western influence strongly shaped
Japanese literature. Writers experimented with new genres such as the novel, short story, and free verse
poetry. Authors like Natsume Sōseki (Kokoro) and Mori Ōgai introduced realism and psychological
exploration. After World War II, literature grappled with themes of trauma, identity, and modernity. Nobel
laureates such as Yasunari Kawabata (Snow Country) in 1968 and Kenzaburō Ōe (A Personal Matter) in
1994 brought Japanese literature to international recognition. Today, contemporary authors like Haruki
Murakami are globally renowned for blending magical realism, alienation, and Japanese tradition, ensuring
the lasting relevance of Japan’s literary heritage.

Major Writers and Works:

1. Kakinomoto no Hitomaro (c. 662–710 CE)
Kakinomoto no Hitomaro is regarded as one of Japan’s earliest and most important poets. He served as a court
poet during the late Asuka and early Nara periods. His poetry often reflects personal feelings, court life, and the
beauty of nature, and he is celebrated for his mastery of both tanka (short poems) and choka (long poems).
Hitomaro’s works are included in the Man’yōshū, the oldest existing anthology of Japanese poetry, which
preserves the literary culture of the Nara period.

Major Works:
o Poems in Man’yōshū (both tanka and choka)
o Elegiac poems commemorating emperors and noble figures
o Nature-inspired poems describing landscapes and seasons

2. Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694)

Matsuo Bashō is widely considered the greatest master of haiku, the three-line Japanese poetic form. He lived
during the early Edo period, a time of cultural flourishing and travel writing. Bashō’s poetry often combines
keen observations of nature with a philosophical or reflective tone, influenced by Zen Buddhism. He traveled
extensively, composing poems inspired by the landscapes, people, and cultural practices he encountered. His
work elevated haiku from a casual pastime to a serious literary art.

Major Works:
o The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Oku no Hosomichi) – a travelogue combining prose and
haiku
o Numerous collections of haiku, including those on nature, seasons, and human experiences
o Collaborative linked verses (renga) with other poets

Assessment 1- Creative Timeline with Canva

Trace the historical development of Japanese literature by creating a visual timeline using Canva. For each
period, include a brief explanation (2–3 sentences) of its main features, at least one major work or writer, and
one image, icon, or symbol (such as a scroll, temple, sword, theater masks, or book). Be creative with your
choice of colors, fonts, and Japanese-inspired designs like cherry blossoms, cranes, or waves to make your work
visually appealing. Once finished, save your output and submit it as a PDF or image file.

Rubric:
 Content accuracy – 40%
 Creativity & design – 30%
 Clarity of explanations – 20%
 Proper labeling and organization – 10%

Assessment 2-Biographical Text Analysis

Matsuo Bashō’s Death Poem

Sick on my journey,
only my dreams will wander
these desolate moors.

About the Author

Matsuo Bashō (1644–1694) is regarded as the greatest master of haiku. Deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism,
he lived a life of travel, reflection, and simplicity. He wandered across Japan, writing poems about the
landscapes and people he encountered. Near the end of his life, while traveling despite his illness, he composed
this famous death poem, a Japanese literary tradition called jisei—a final verse written at the approach of
death.

Close Analysis & Interpretation Instructions

Read Bashō’s death poem carefully, paying attention to:
  Which words create an atmosphere of solitude or finality?
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 What images of nature appear? What do they symbolize?
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 What mood or feeling does the poem create?
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 What universal truth or reflection about life and death can you find?
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 How does knowing that this was Bashō’s death poem influence your reading?
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Assessment 3-Poem Analysis

In a long bond paper, write your own close analysis of the poem, following the guide questions.

Guide Questions
1. What does the poem suggest about Bashō’s view of death?
2. How do Bashō’s travels and Zen beliefs influence the imagery of the poem?
3. Compare the theme of this poem with the Japanese cultural value of mono no aware (awareness of
impermanence).
4. Japan today has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. How might Japanese cultural attitudes
toward death, impermanence, and sacrifice (past and present) help us understand this issue?
5. How does doing a close reading of the poem (focusing on diction, imagery, tone, and context) deepen
your interpretation?

Assessment 4-Poem Creation

In a short bond paper, write your own short “farewell verse” in haiku form (5-7-5 syllables). Like Bashō, use
nature imagery to express an emotion or reflection on life’s journey.

Lesson 3
Indian Literature
Lesson Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
1. Trace the historical development of Indian literature.
2. Identify major writers and works in Indian literature.
3. Analyze selected texts using literary approaches.
4. Write a close analysis and interpretation of a chosen Indian literary piece.

Activity 1-Unlocking Knowledge

Answer briefly.
1. What comes to your mind when you hear India?
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2. Do you know any Indian traditions or beliefs?
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3. Have you heard of the Ramayana or Mahabharata? What do you know about them?
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4. Why are stories with moral lessons important?
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Indian literature encompasses works in Sanskrit, Hindi, Tamil, Urdu, and other vernacular languages. It
includes epics, poetry, fables, and philosophical texts reflecting India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Indian literature blends prose and poetry, with strong emphasis on moral, philosophical, and spiritual
themes. Epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana explore duty, righteousness, and human virtues. Fables and
allegorical stories, such as those in Panchatantra, impart moral lessons and practical wisdom.

History of Indian Literature

Indian literature is among the world’s oldest traditions, reflecting India’s cultural, spiritual, and
philosophical richness. Written in languages such as Sanskrit, Hindi, Tamil, and Urdu, it has evolved over
thousands of years, moving from oral hymns to epics, devotional poetry, and modern novels.

 Vedic Period (c. 1500–500 BCE). The earliest Indian literature developed during the Vedic age. Literature
was preserved orally and written in Sanskrit, focusing on religion, rituals, and philosophy. The four Vedas
(Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Atharvaveda) contain hymns and prayers, while the Upanishads
emphasize meditation, moral order, and the search for truth. This period laid the foundation of India’s
spiritual and philosophical thought.

 Epic Period (c. 500 BCE–200 CE). The second phase produced India’s great Sanskrit epics, which deeply
influenced its culture and values. The Mahabharata, attributed to Vyasa, is the longest epic in world
literature and explores duty (dharma), justice, and human struggle. Within it lies the Bhagavad Gita, a
dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna that remains central to Hindu philosophy. The Ramayana, by
Valmiki, narrates the life of Prince Rama, his devotion to duty, and his quest to rescue his wife Sita. These
epics combined storytelling with moral and spiritual teachings.

 Classical Period (c. 200–1200 CE). This period saw the flourishing of Sanskrit poetry and drama. Writers
like Kalidasa produced masterpieces such as Shakuntala and Meghaduta, celebrated for their beauty and
lyrical expression. Themes of love, nature, devotion, and aesthetics dominated classical works, reflecting the
refinement of India’s artistic and literary culture.

 Medieval Period (1200–1800 CE). Indian literature expanded into various regional languages such as
Hindi, Urdu, and Tamil. Poetry during this time was deeply influenced by religion and spirituality, with the
Bhakti movement producing devotional songs dedicated to Hindu deities and the Sufi tradition spreading
mystical love poetry in Urdu and Persian. Poets such as Kabir, Tulsidas, and Mirabai expressed faith,
devotion, and equality, making literature accessible to the common people.

 Modern and Contemporary Period (1800–present). Under British colonization, Indian literature absorbed
Western influences, particularly in the novel, short story, and free verse poetry. Writers began to address
 themes of nationalism, identity, and social reform. Rabindranath Tagore became the first Asian Nobel
laureate in 1913 for his work Gitanjali. Later writers such as R. K. Narayan brought Indian culture to
world audiences through novels, while Salman Rushdie and Arundhati Roy explored themes of identity,
history, and globalization. Today, Indian literature continues to blend its ancient traditions with modern
perspectives, making it one of the most diverse literary heritages in the world.

Major Writers and Works:

1. Vyasa (c. 1500–1000 BCE, traditional date)
Vyasa is traditionally regarded as the author of the Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics in world literature. A
revered sage in Hindu tradition, Vyasa is credited with compiling the Vedas and writing the epic to preserve
moral and philosophical teachings. The Mahabharata explores the concepts of dharma (moral duty), karma, and
righteousness, and includes the Bhagavad Gita, a spiritual dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna
that remains a central text in Hindu philosophy.

Major Works:
o Mahabharata – over 100,000 couplets, containing stories of heroes, kings, and gods
o Bhagavad Gita – spiritual and philosophical dialogue within the Mahabharata

2. Valmiki (c. 500 BCE, traditional date)

Valmiki is traditionally regarded as the first poet (Adi Kavi) of Sanskrit literature. He authored the Ramayana,
an epic poem that narrates the life and adventures of Prince Rama, his exile, and his quest to rescue his wife,
Sita, from the demon king Ravana. Valmiki’s work blends moral teachings with heroic narrative, highlighting
ideals of virtue, devotion, and duty. His poetry is highly regarded for its lyrical beauty and moral guidance.

Major Works:
o Ramayana – approximately 24,000 couplets detailing Rama’s life and moral virtues
o Various verses emphasizing dharma, devotion, and ethical conduct

3. Vishnu Sharma (traditional date unknown, likely 3rd century BCE–3rd century CE)
Vishnu Sharma is credited with composing the Panchatantra, a collection of ancient Indian fables written in
Sanskrit. The stories, often involving animals as protagonists, were designed to teach political wisdom, moral
conduct, and practical knowledge to young princes. The fables use allegory and satire to impart lessons on
intelligence, strategy, and ethical behavior, making them widely influential in India and beyond.

Major Works:
o Panchatantra – five sections of fables and moral tales, stories illustrating strategy, intelligence,
and moral reasoning

Assessment 1 – Timeline Creation

Create a visual timeline in Canva that traces the history of Indian literature. For each period, write 2–3
sentences explaining its main features, include one major work or writer, and add one image, icon, or symbol
such as a lotus, peacock, temple, or book. Be creative in using fonts, colors, and Indian-inspired designs to
make your timeline attractive and meaningful. Once finished, save your work and submit it as a PDF or image
file. Your output should clearly show the development of Indian literature across different periods.
Rubric:
 Content accuracy – 40%
 Creativity & design – 30%
 Clarity of explanations – 20%
 Proper labeling and organization – 10%

Assessment 2- Great Minds, Great Works

Match the following Indian writers in Column A with their corresponding major works in Column B. Write
the letter of the correct answer in your notebook.
Column A Column B
1. Vyasa A. Ramayana
2. Valmiki B. Gitanjali
3. Vishnu Sharma C. Mahabharata / Bhagavad Gita
4. Kalidasa D. The God of Small Things
5. Rabindranath Tagore E. Shakuntala / Meghaduta
6. R. K. Narayan F. Malgudi Days
7. Salman Rushdie G. Panchatantra
8. Arundhati Roy H. Songs of devotion (Bhakti poetry)
9. Kabir I. Midnight’s Children
10. Mirabai J. Bhajans (devotional songs to Krishna)

Activity 3-Close Analysis and Literary Interpretation

Text: “The Story of the Monkey and the Log” (from the Panchatantra pages 18-23)

Read the story carefully. On a long bond paper, answer the questions below in complete sentences. Afterward,
write a short interpretation (5–7 sentences) that explains your overall understanding of the story.
Guided Questions:
1. What is the main lesson or moral of the story?
2. What do the actions of the monkey teach us about human behavior?
3. What might the log and wedge symbolize in real life?
4. What personal lesson can you apply from this story to your own life?

POSTTEST
Instructions: Choose the letter of the correct answer.
1. Who is known as the “Poet-Historian” of China and wrote lushi poems?
A. Li Bai
B. Du Fu
C. Matsuo Bashō
D. Vyasa
2. Which poet is called the “Poet Immortal” and is famous for celebrating nature and friendship in his
poetry?
A. Du Fu
B. Valmiki
C. Li Bai
D. Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
3. Which of the following is a major work of Du Fu?
A. Quiet Night Thoughts
B. Spring View (Chun Wang)
C. Mahabharata
D. The Narrow Road to the Deep North
4. Which of the following is a major work of Li Bai?
A. Bring in the Wine (Ji Jiu)
B. Ramayana
C. Ballad of the Army Carts
D. Panchatantra
5. Which Japanese poet’s works are preserved in the Man’yōshū anthology?
A. Matsuo Bashō
B. Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
 C. Li Bai
D. Du Fu
6. Who is considered the greatest master of haiku?
A. Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
B. Matsuo Bashō
C. Vishnu Sharma
D. Valmiki
7. Which of the following is a major work of Matsuo Bashō?
A. The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Oku no Hosomichi)
B. Quiet Night Thoughts (Jing Ye Si)
C. Mahabharata
D. Spring View (Chun Wang)
8. Who authored the Mahabharata, including the Bhagavad Gita?
A. Vyasa
B. Valmiki
C. Du Fu
D. Li Bai
9. Who wrote the Ramayana, narrating the adventures of Prince Rama?
A. Valmiki
B. Vishnu Sharma
C. Matsuo Bashō
D. Kakinomoto no Hitomaro
10. Which collection of fables was written to teach moral and political wisdom in India?
A. Panchatantra
B. Mahabharata
C. Ramayana
D. Ballad of the Army Carts