GE8 – Readings in Philippine History

Activity 5

Submitted by:

Dana, Kristine Nicolle E.

Name of Professor:

Mr. Jaime Javinez

June 05, 2020

 Let’s Analyse

Activity 5
Instruction: Give a concise explanation/discussion on the following items.
10 sentences each question
10 pts per question
Write your answer in a separate page and submit it to my umindanao account.

Rubrics:
10 pts- correct answer, own words, and 10 sentences only
7 pts- correct answer, own words, and more or below 10 sentences
5 pts- correct answer, not own words (regardless the number of sentences)
2 pts- wrong answer (regardless of the words and the number of sentences)

1. What is the primary reason of Antonio Pigafetta in writing the document?

The main reason why Antonio Pigafetta wrote the travelogue “The First Voyage
Around the World” is to provide important details regarding the first circumnavigation
in the world. Pigafetta narrated well Magellan’s expedition that started in the year
1519 and ended in 1522. This serves as more than an evidence and historical
account of the world’s amazing explorations. Moreover, it is portrayed as the
greatest document relating to the geographical discoveries around 16 th century.
Through his writing also, the abundance of our country is discovered. Leaving as an
impact of the knowledge about the mystery of our country before. We are part of
what is coined as “Spice Islands” because of course we are rich in spices, one of the
reason why we are colonized by the Spaniards. It is in his writing also that our great
Filipino ancestors were founded. Including their ways of living, on how they
responded to people and environment. Indeed, Pigafetta’s aim in writing is to
showcase and highlight the beauty and wonders of the world including the
exploration and discovery of Philippine islands.
 2. What is the main theme in the document?

Pigafetta’s travel writing account centers in its theme on exposing marvels,

causing astonishment and creating a feeling of wonder with regards to the first
expedition around the world. It is evident in his journal notes on how he provided a
detailed information about their extraordinary journey. He added also marvelous
elements that has brought such an impact to the readers. Furthermore, his writing is
undeniably considered as best historical writing ever made in history. It is an
eyewitness account that narrated the direct observation of Pigafetta along in their
interaction to specific people and places. Again, it provides description about the
people, places, customs, traditions, and natural resources they encountered along
their voyage. He uses different senses to clearly described what he witnessed and
experienced during that time. Though, this document is more of marvel travels and
allusions but, this literature is far from just a marvel-filled book because it is authentic
and accurate in giving the geographic and ethnographic navigation travel around the
globe. That is why it has no doubt why it is considered as one of the best travelogues
ever written. Therefore, Pigafetta’s intent in writing is integrated in his primary theme
which is to marveled readers and give them an opportunity to be in the scenario
through opening their observational eye.

3. Which specific information in Pigafetta’s narrative helps you understand

and appreciate more our history?

The part which I really admired the most in Pigafetta’s writing is where they
touched down Philippines specifically the scenario of exchanging gifts with our
ancestors. This scene led me to conclude that we Filipinos are really hospitable and
accommodating even before. Today, we, Filipinos are widely known for having a
pleasing personality in maintaining a harmonious relationship with our peers. This
really proves the continuum of our past. For history in its true essence is a never-
ending story to tell. In addition, our natives had really a great contribution on the
survival of Magellan’s troupe. This act of our ancients had really prove a lot of our
concern and compassion towards our fellow. Our Filipino ancestor gave them
provisions, they also offered gold bars but Magellan and his company refuse to it
because they need goods rather than wealth. This also remarked that we are truly
abundant before. This part in Pigafetta’s writing led me to a deeper understanding
and more appreciation of history.

4. Provide your personal evaluation on the impact of the document

in the understanding of the 16th century people and their culture in
the islands.

Pigafetta’s “First Voyage around the World” revealed the customs, traits and
tradition that 16th century people hold on to. Specifically, we came to understand our
ancestor’s ideals. Through that document we came to conclusion that our world is
full of different cultures that is anchored upon geographical and topographical sites
of a certain country. Pigafetta noted the uniqueness of different cultures around the
world. Besides, in the works of Pigafetta, we are able to figure out what our
ancestors look like before, how they lived and what values they are practicing.
Diversity of cultures also across different islands is pretty obvious in the writings.
This information teaches us the importance of respecting every culture. Through the
absence of cultural ethnocentrism, we can together create a better community. This
effect is not just only applicable and limited only in the events of our past but also
today and tomorrow. So for me, Pigafetta did really his best to describe their
encounters with regards to the knowledge to human race, culture, tradition and even
belief systems.