Republic of the Philippines CAVITE
STATE UNIVERSITY
Bacoor City Campus
SHIV, Molino VI, City of Bacoor
GNED 15: World Literature
Australian
Literature
Submitted by: Henny J. Meriz
Submitted to: Dr. Christian, LPT.MAED.EA., JD,
Ph.D., DA-EG,- PD-SML.(C) Professor
Date of Submission: April 16, 2024
Sem & SY: 2nd Semester, SY 2023-2024
Scope
• Introduction to Australian
Literature
• History of Australian Literature
• Influential Australian Writers and
their notable works
Introduction
Australian literature encompasses the diverse and rich literary works
produced in Australia, reflecting the country’s unique history,
culture, and landscape. From indigenous storytelling to
contemporary fiction and poetry, Australian literature captures the
complex and evolving identity of the nation. It often explores
colonization, identity, and the relationship between humans and the
land.
Colonial Period
(1788-1890)
The early literary works produced during the colonial period in
Australia reflected the themes of exploration, settlement, and
identity. Authors such as Henry Lawson and Banjo Paterson
emerged as key figures in shaping Australian literature during this
time.
Colonial Period
(Authors and their works)
Henry Lawson (1867-1922)
He is known for his poignant and raw portrayals of bush life and
the hardships faced by early settlers, capturing the essence of the
Australian landscape and the struggles of its people in his short
stories and poems. His works often highlighted the resilience and
spirit of the Australian bushman, portraying them as heroic figures
in the face of adversity.
“The Drover Wife”
“The Bush Undertaker”
Colonial Period
(Authors and their works)
Andrew Barton “Banjo” Paterson (1864-1941)
He focused on the romance and adventure of the Australian
outback in his poetry and prose. His iconic works such as “The Man
from Snowy River” and Waltzing Matilda” celebrated the bushman
as a symbol of Australian identity and captured the essence of life
in the Australian bush.
“The Man from Snowy River”
“Waltzing Matilda”
Modern Period
(1890-1960)
Modernism profoundly impacted Australian literature during the first half of
the 20th century, leading to a significant shift in style, form, and content.
Australian writers such as Patrick White were at the forefront of this literary
movement, producing works that explored complex themes of social
change, war, and urbanization.
Modern Period
(Authors and their works)
Patrick White (1912-1990)
Considered one of Australia’s greatest writers, experimented with
narrative structure and language in his novels, such as “Voss” and
“The Tree of Man”, to reflect the fragmented and uncertain nature
of modern life.
“Voss”
“The Tree of Man”
Contemporary Period
(1960-Present)
Contemporary Australian Literature encompasses a wide variety of voices
and perspectives, reflecting the country's multicultural society and diverse
landscapes. Key authors such as David Malouf have brought to life the
complexities of Australian identity, history, and culture through their works.
They engage with themes such as multiculturalism, environmentalism, and
indigenous perspectives, giving readers a deeper understanding of the rich
tapestry of Australian life.
Contemporay Period
(Authors and their works)
David Malouf (1934)
He is known for his evocative prose and exploration of Australian
history and identity, often delving into themes of memory,
belongings, and cultural heritage in his works. In his novels,
explores the impact of colonization on indigenous communities and
the complexities of race relations in Australia.
“Remembering Babylon”
“The Conversations at Curlow Creek”
Thank You!