Abstract

Every coin has two sides. Every story has another perspective. This is clearly visible within the pages of the periodical where the interplay of light and shadow of every story was utilized to sell the news. More often than not, the shadows overcome the light in a business where leading with the news that bleeds increases sales. The woman is not exempted in this schema, as she finds herself represented not only as a beacon of light, but also as a shadowy figure in the world of crime or the brutal victim in the hands of that world. In line with this, this virtual lecture tackles the unraveling of that other side, the Manileña Marked Woman who is described as someone who is not liked or trusted or who is in danger of being harmed (“Marked Woman”). Ironically, this image is spoken in hushed tones within civilized society while simultaneously being emblazoned in big bold headlines on the front page of a newspaper. Various texts and iconography from periodicals extant in Manila from 1898-1938 will be used as the main source for the virtual lecture. Far from the usual representations of the Manileña, this virtual lecture shows her more garrulous side and the various reasons for her misdemeanor. It also shows that the ideas in people’s minds as to who and what a criminal or victim looks like are not necessarily in line with the truth. Perception and reality collide.

Dr. Katherine G. Lacson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of History of Ateneo de Manila University. She obtained her Ph.D. in History at University of Côte d'Azur. Her research interests include Philippine History, Women History, Media History, Business History, Visual History.