The Impact of 21st Century Literature in Social Change: A Critical

Discourse Analysis of “Macarthur” by Bob Ong and its Influence on Literature

Students of Easter College

A Research Submitted to the Faculty of the Teacher Education Department Easter College

Incorporated

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor of Secondary Education

Major in English and Bachelor of Elementary Education

by:

Dolinta, Aldryn Jan

Kee, Rowena

Mangaoang, Ryzle

Salud, Ma. Leslie Ross

May 2023
 CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM
Background of the Study

Contemporary writing reflects the social, cultural, and political challenges of the twenty-first

century. It distinguishes itself by being diverse and encapsulates the political, social, and cultural

climate as well as the “normalizations” of the twenty-first century. It offers a platform for

marginalized viewpoints and features writing by authors from many ethnicities and nationalities

(Suvin, D. (2012)). Among the various literary genres and styles that are featured in this era of

literature are graphic novels, young adult fiction, and speculative fiction (Wood, J. (2016)).

     Additionally, the highly developed, networked, and globally interconnected civilization we

live in is reflected in the literature from this time period for it distinguishes itself for its diversity

and providence of voice to underrepresented communities.

According to Matar, N. (2013), literature has the potential and power to foster critical

thinking that would bring up significant topics and promote social transformation. It starts with

educating the public about social issues to encourage empathy and compassion, which can open

a space for critical thought and contradict accepted beliefs, customs, and traditions.  Other topics

that modern literature commonly addresses include social justice, environmental sustainability,

and human rights, drawing attention to a range of interrelated challenges and motivating readers

to support and act. For instance, Angie Thomas' "The Hate U Give" advances the current

discourse on social justice and motivates young people to join social movements by analyzing

racism in America as well as the brutality and unfairness of the police. Moreover, the literature

of the twenty-first century also has the potential to influence cultural values and attitudes, which

in turn can affect societal change. (Kolenikova, A. (2016)). A good example is Kevin Kwan’s

novel "Crazy Rich Asians," which has received praise for its advocacy of Asian representation
and diversity in the mainstream media. The novel's film adaptation was a financial success,

demonstrating the rising need for diversity representation in popular, ethical, and political

culture.

     Focusing on our literary piece, Roberto “Bob” Ong is the pseudonym of a contemporary

Filipino author known for using conversational writing techniques to create humorous and

reflective depictions of Philippine life. The author started out anonymous, with his real name and

identity unknown to the public. He was born in February 1975 in Quezon City, Philippines. He

became a writer after quitting his bachelor’s degree and was a web developer and teacher when

he put up the website “Bobong Pinoy." This site made Bob Ong receive the People’s Choice

Philippine Web Award in Humor in 1998.

His first book, “ABNKKBSNPLAKO”, was published in 2001, and was one of his two works

adapted into film. His first one was released in 2014, while his other work, “Lumayo Ka Nga Sa

Akin," was shown in theaters in 2016. In a span of 16 years, he has written nine books, including

“Macarthur”, his first fiction novel. These books were entitled “Bakit Baliktad Magbasa ng

Libro ang mga Pilipino”, “Lumayo Ka Nga Sa Akin”, “Ang Paboritong Libro ni Hudas”,

“Alamat ng Gubat”, “Stainless Longganisa”, “Macarthur”, “Kapitan Sino”, “Ang mga

Kaibigan ni Mama Susan”, “Si”.

“Macarthur” is a Filipino tragedy novel centered around the themes of poverty, drug

addiction, criminality, and corruption. The title, “Macarthur” is based on the American military

leader who is known for his quote, “I shall return.” and the resolution of Noel, where he came

back to his family. The book’s cover also shows an underlay image of a toilet bowl, which is

connected to the scene in the book when our four protagonists are described as feces because of

how useless they are in society. 

MacArthur's famous promise, "I shall return.". The cover's background, mostly obscured by the

bold typeset of the title and by the red color, depicts a toilet bowl which is connected to the scene

in the book when our four protagonists were described as feces, because of how useless they are

in the society.

     The story follows four friends, Noel, Cyrus, Voltron, and Jim, who live in the squatters' area

in the Philippines.  Due to poverty, they adapt and acquire coping mechanisms to adjust their

way of life, which includes using and selling illegal drugs. Noel, who came from a middle-class

family and was a typical college student who eventually stopped studying because of financial

reasons; Cyrus, the youngest member of the group and known for stealing things to make ends

meet with him and his ailing grandfather, whom he considers his father; Voltron, also known as

Denver, who suffered a terrible death; and Jim, 23 years of age, who has a wife and son.

(BongBongBooks, 2015) The author, Bob Ong, shows the everyday life of lower Filipino

households and how those who live in abject poverty have limited options and all the odds

stacked against them. That the systems in place to help them are ineffectual at best, and callous,

corrupt, and exploitative at worst. 

     Ong described the many lengths to which Filipinos would go in order to obtain money in the

book Macarthur, which is why it was chosen by the researchers as an example as it also captured

the reality of living in poverty in the Philippines. The end goal of the researchers is to promote

the use of literature as a powerful tool for learning, teaching, and promoting social change,

especially when addressing social issues. The book discussed a variety of contemporary social

concerns, including drugs, vices and their impacts, employment, education, and social and

economic standing. The listed problems are merely a small portion of the numerous obstacles to
social change. The narrative also shows how these problems negatively affect the characters as

well as society as a whole. At the end of the story, readers can acquire valuable insights, such as

the effects of poverty on every individual and the negative effects of illegal substances, which

they can utilize as effective instruments for social change. 

Rationale.

     Given the quick changes taking place in our society, it is becoming more and more important

to comprehend how literature influences societal transformation, public dialogue, and individual

behavior. Understanding the complex and linked social, cultural, and political forces that

influence our worldviews, attitudes, and beliefs can be gained from studying literature. By

focusing on how current literature might influence people's attitudes, values, and views about

social concerns, this study has the potential to add to the continuing conversation on the role of

literature in fostering social change.

Additionally, by bringing attention to pressing social issues and motivating readers to take

action, this study aims to shed light on the various ways in which literature may serve as a

catalyst for social change. This study also aims to illustrate the ways in which literature may

foster critical thinking and empower people to challenge the existing quo and advocate for a

more just and equitable society by examining the critical discourse of "McArthur" by Bob Ong

and its impact on literature students of Easter College.

Furthermore, the study offers insights into the ways in which literature can be used as a

vehicle for social change, adding to the expanding body of scholarship on the connection

between activism and literature. The results of this study have the potential to guide future

research on the function of literature in fostering social change and offer new insights into how

literature may be used as an educational tool to encourage students' civic involvement and
critical thinking. All things considered, the study has a lot to offer the domains of literature,

education, and social change.

Review of Related Literature.

This study is built on the foundations that includes a number of studies and theoretical stances

on the connection between literature and social transformation.

To begin with, literature has been recognized as a potent tool for fostering social change

because it increases awareness, fosters empathy, and inspires people to act (Hirsch, M. (2013)).

For instance, Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" that was written in 1851 is regarded

as a pivotal book that inspired the American abolitionist movement and contributed to increase

public awareness of the horrors of slavery (Fischer, S. 2011). Similar to this, "The Jungle"

written by Upton Sinclair was a harsh exposé of the working conditions experienced by

meatpackers, and it contributed to the adoption of significant labor laws and regulations.

Additionally, literary studies have made substantial use of critical discourse analysis (CDA)

to examine how language, power, and ideology interact in literary texts. Researchers can

determine the underlying presumptions and values that influence a literary work's meaning and

social impact by using a CDA approach. As an example, Norman Fairclough's research on CDA

offers a useful framework for examining the social and political implications of language use in

literary works which will be particularly used in this research.

Moreover, research has demonstrated how literature affects pupils' attitudes and views.

According to research, literature can be a significant factor in encouraging students to think

critically and to develop empathy, especially when it comes to social justice concerns (Scholes,

R. & Wulfman, C. (2011)). For instance, literature can aid in the growth of students' cultural

competence and comprehension of various viewpoints.

the classroom. According to Lester, D. (2013), students may be challenged to critically evaluate

their own ideas and values by reading contemporary literature, which can give a platform to

underrepresented and underprivileged perspectives. Studies, in particular by Greenlaw, L. (2012)

and Hooks, B. (2014), have emphasized the significance of using literature to examine themes of

racism, gender, and social justice.

Finally, in the context of globalization and digital media, studies have also emphasized the

significance of comprehending the connection between literature and social change. For Castells,

M. (2012) and Fuchs, C. (2017), literature may be extremely influential in influencing public

debate and inspiring people to take action for social change, especially in the age of social media

and online activism.

Significance of the Study.

     This study is focused on 21st-century literature, for it is crucial to understanding the

contemporary social, cultural, and political issues of our time. The researchers have deemed

various reasons why the study of 21st-century literature and its impact on social transformation is

important, particularly when compared to classical or conventional literature:

1. Reflects the diversity of modern society with its current issues and challenges.

The complexity and diversity of modern society are reflected in the diversified, open-minded,

and experimental literature of the twenty-first century. Best, J. (2016) states that twenty-first

century literature spans a variety of genres and forms, including experimental poetry, graphic

novels, and science fiction, among others. This was supported by Nayar, P. (2019), as he

believes that twenty-first century works give underrepresented perspectives a platform and add to

the continuing discussions about equity and social justice concerns. Therefore, the experiences
and knowledge of individuals who are marginalized and excluded from mainstream society

should not be disregarded, for they are deemed essential to represent in 21st-century writing

(Teverson, A. (2015)).

2. Reflects and engages the change in communication and digital media.

Thompson, J. (2019) asserts that literature from the twenty-first century depicts how

technologies like social media, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence have affected our lives.

We can gain a greater knowledge of how technology is influencing our society by studying

contemporary literature, from the effect of social media on political discourse to the ethical

implications of emerging technologies. The study of 21st-century literature is essential for

understanding how technology is transforming society since it has changed the literary landscape

and opened up new avenues for literary creativity and experimentation (Singh, R., and

Chakraborty, 2019)).

3. Reflects the changing nature of our globalized world.

  Literature of the twenty-first century is characterized by its globalization, which reflects the

many experiences of people and communities around the world (Fisher, S., and Unwin, T.

(2015)). Literature of the twenty-first century offers a window into the societal, political, and

cultural issues that have an impact on people all over the world, from the effects of climate

change to the difficulties associated with migration and displacement. We can better appreciate

the complexities of our interconnected world and how literature shapes our knowledge of global

challenges by studying modern literature.

Conceptual/Theoretical Framework.
 The purpose of this theoretical/conceptual framework is to examine the key concepts and

theories related to social change and literature, and how these ideas relate to the research topic.

This study will be focused on the theoretical framework known as critical discourse analysis

(CDA) to analyze the connections between language, power, and social change. The CDA pre-

supposes that language is not neutral but rather reflects social and political power relations and

may therefore be used to both support and subvert established power systems (Fairclough, N.

2010).

The researchers will make use of Fairclough's three-dimensional CDA model, which

incorporates discourse practice, social practice, and text analysis. The Three Dimensional Model

of Critical Discourse Response, designed by Norman Fairclough, aims to investigate how the

meaning is created in context, expose how language is used in the socio-political abuse of power,

uncover power relationships, understand, expose and challenge the use of power by social

institutions on political, cultural, ethical or gender basis, and to give voice to the marginalized

people. (Fairclough, 2010) The language, style, and topics of "Macarthur" by Bob Ong will be

analyzed, as well as how they may affect readers. The production, distribution, and consumption

processes of the text by literature students will be examined through a discourse practice

analysis. The potential for social change presented by the text will be examined through social

practice analysis, along with the larger social context in which it is located.

     This study will also go through the impact of 21st-century literature on social change is an

emerging field of study that has gained traction in recent years. Scholars such as Antonio, R.

(2017) argue that literature can play a crucial role in promoting social change by challenging

dominant narratives and presenting various perspectives. Similarly, Everett, A. and Rogers, R.
(2019) suggest that literature can be used to promote empathy and understanding among readers,

fostering a sense of social responsibility.

     Additionally, its impact would provide a theoretical basis for the study. Literature has been

recognized as a powerful tool for social change, as it has the ability to challenge societal norms

and beliefs, and provoke critical thought and reflection (Escobar, 2018; Mokhtari, 2019). Bob

Ong's "Macarthur" is an example of contemporary literature that has been praised for its social

commentary and critique of Philippine society (Antonio, R. 2017).

     Moreover, the researchers will also explore Bob Ong and his work, “Macarthur”. Bob Ong is

a well-known Filipino author whose works have gained popularity for their critical portrayal of

Philippine society. "Macarthur" is a novel that tells the story of a man's search for meaning in the

face of adversity, offering a critical reflection on Philippine society and its political and

economic systems. Scholars such as Fernandez, D. (2017) have praised Ong's work for its ability

to engage readers and promote critical thinking.

     Furthermore, Valente, A. (2022) asserts that social change has been greatly influenced and

promoted by literature. Literature can be a powerful representational and visibility tool for many

marginalized or oppressed communities. It may offer individuals who may not have a voice in

society a voice by sharing the experiences of these groups, which can serve to spread awareness

of important issues.

     Finally, the researchers will use literature students as their population, for they are a

particularly important group to focus on, as they are likely to become future leaders and

influencers in society. For instance, Brown, E. and Larkin, E. (2016) both argue that literature

education can play a vital role in promoting social justice and critical thinking skills.
Research Paradigm

To show the relationships between variables involved in the study, the input-process-output

model was used.

The input of the study is focused on the Impact of 21st Century Literature in Social Change

and its influence on Literature Students of Easter College using Critical Discourse Analysis of

“Macarthur” by Bob Ong.

Meanwhile, the process undertaken in the study included a qualitative research design with

the semi-structured interview survey method of research, where the researchers administered

one-on-one interviews with the respondents. Afterward, the researcher proceeded to perform

analysis, and data interpretation on the responses that were collected.

The output of this study is the creation of a literature organization for the Teacher Education

Department of Easter College, Inc.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

 Impact of 21st  Qualitative research design  Implemented literature

Century Literature  Critical Discourse Analysis and organization for the

in Social Change Reader Response Teacher Education

 Semi-structured interviews  Department of Easter

 Analysis and interpretation of College.

data
Statement of the Problem.

It is the major purpose of this study to determine the impact of 21 st century literature on social

change and its influence on literature students of Easter College using critical discourse analysis.

The study seeks to answer the following problems:

1. What are the social changes depicted in Bob Ong’s literary piece, “Macarthur”?

2. What is the impact of 21st century Literature specifically, Bob Ong’s "Macarthur,” among

literature students in Easter College?

3. What is the influence of Bob Ong’s “Macarthur” on the literature students in Easter

College?

Assumptions.

The study is based upon the following assumptions:

1. There are numerous social changes depicted in Bob Ong’s literary piece

“Macarthur”.

2. There is a potent ability and strong impact of 21st century literature to spur social

change and equip readers to take on established systems and institutions.

3. Easter College literature students will be motivated to read 21st century literature

critically, identify how it can influence how they feel about social concerns, and take

significant steps toward affecting social change.

DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

     This chapter discusses in detail the various methodologies that were used in gathering data

and conducting analysis that are relevant to the research. The methodologies will include areas

such as the locale of the study, research design, sampling, sample size, types of data collection

methods, and their management.

Research and Design.

      With a focus on Bob Ong's "McArthur" and its impact on Easter College literature students,

this study will use a critical discourse analysis technique to investigate how 21st-century

literature affects social change. An in-depth examination of the text and its effects on the target

population will be possible thanks to the study's qualitative research design. The critical

discourse analysis method will allow the researchers to look at the underlying ideologies and

power structures in the text and how they affect how readers understand social issues and their

role in social change.

Population and Locale of the Study.

The population of this study will be Twenty Teacher Education students of Easter College

Inc., Baguio City, Philippines, 2600, who have watched and listened to a provided copy of

"Macarthur" by Bob Ong. The study will be conducted in Easter College Inc., Baguio City,

Philippines, 2600.

 Data Gathering Tool/s.

for this project. The purpose of the interview guide is to elicit replies from literature students

regarding their opinions of "Macarthur" and how it has affected their comprehension of societal

change. To confirm the validity and reliability of the interview guide, a pilot test will be

conducted.

Data Gathering Procedure

     All the students who took literature subjects from Easter College's Teacher Education

Department will be gathered for the study's initial phase. The researchers will then provide

"Macarthur" by Bob Ong as A/V content. They will have enough time to observe and hear. The

Reader's Response Theory will be discussed next by the researchers as their framework for

literary analysis. After which, semi-structured interview questions will be used to conduct the

interview. The interviews will be recorded on audio and verbatim transcribed.

Treatment of the Data

     Using themes and patterns found in the data, the researcher will be able to make inferences

about how "Macarthur" has influenced literature students' comprehension of social change.

Additionally, the researcher will employ critical discourse analysis to look at the underlying

ideologies and power structures in the book and how they affect social change. The study's

conclusions will be presented in narrative form with quotes from the interviews as proof.

 
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