Dekada 70: A Novel of Life Under Martial Law by Lualhati Bautista
Dekada 70 is a Filipino novel that can be classified as a political and historical novel. The novel was written by Lualhati Bautista, a woman who first-handedly witnessed the situation during martial law. The book was originally published by Carmelo & Bauermann Print Corp in 1983, two years after Martial Law was lifted in the Philippines[^2^].
The novel tells the story of the Bartolome family, a middle-class Filipino family who lived through the turbulent decade of the 1970s. The protagonist is Amanda Bartolome, the mother of five sons and the wife of Julian, a company executive. Amanda struggles to cope with the changes in her family and in her society as she witnesses the rise of activism, rebellion, and violence among her sons and her fellow Filipinos. She also questions her role as a woman and a mother in a patriarchal culture that stifles her growth and freedom.
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The novel depicts the historical events that shaped the Philippines during the Marcos regime, such as the bombing of Plaza Miranda, the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus, the proclamation of martial law, the random arrests and torture of political prisoners, the assassination of Ninoy Aquino, and the People Power Revolution. The novel also explores the themes of nationalism, human rights, social justice, and feminism.
Dekada 70 is considered one of the best novels by Lualhati Bautista, who is known for her honest realism, courageous exploration of Philippine women's issues, and her compelling female protagonists. The novel won the Carlos Palanca Memorial Award for Literature in 1984[^3^]. It was also adapted into a film in 2002, directed by Chito S. RoÃo and starring Vilma Santos as Amanda Bartolome.
Dekada 70 is a novel that not only captures the spirit of an era, but also challenges its readers to reflect on their own role and responsibility in shaping their nation's history.
The novel is divided into four parts, each corresponding to a year in the 1970s. The first part, 1972, introduces the Bartolome family and their ordinary life before martial law. Amanda is a devoted housewife who takes care of her husband and sons, while Julian is a successful businessman who works for an American company. Their sons are Jules, Isagani, Emmanuel, Jason, and Benjamin, who have different personalities and interests. Amanda is content with her role as a mother, but she also feels a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction with her marriage.
The second part, 1973, shows the impact of martial law on the Bartolome family and the Filipino society. Amanda becomes aware of the human rights violations and the corruption of the Marcos regime through the news and her friends. She also learns that her eldest son Jules has joined the New People's Army (NPA), a communist rebel group that fights against the dictatorship. She is torn between her love for her son and her fear for his safety. Julian tries to convince Amanda that martial law is necessary for peace and order, but he also faces problems at work due to his American boss's involvement in illegal activities.
The third part, 1975, focuses on Amanda's personal growth and empowerment as a woman. She joins a women's organization that advocates for social change and gender equality. She also develops a friendship with Evelyn, a feminist writer who inspires her to pursue her own interests and talents. Amanda begins to write poems and essays that express her thoughts and feelings about the political situation and her family life. She also confronts Julian about his infidelity and his lack of respect for her opinions. She asserts her right to have a voice and a choice in their relationship.
The fourth part, 1980, depicts the climax and resolution of the novel. Amanda faces more challenges and tragedies as martial law continues. She witnesses the death of her son Jason, who is killed by soldiers during a peaceful rally. She also suffers from depression and anxiety due to the loss of her son and the uncertainty of Jules's fate. She finds solace in her writing and her women's group. She also reconciles with Julian, who realizes his mistakes and supports Amanda's endeavors. The novel ends with Amanda joining the People Power Revolution in 1986, along with her husband and surviving sons. She sees this as a sign of hope and liberation for herself and her country. 0efd9a6b88