EXERCISE 2.1 Give a concise explanation /discussion on the following items.
1. What is the primary reason of the author in writing the document? How was it produced?
Answer: Antonio Pigafetta was an Italian scholar and explorer. His primary reason for
writing the document, "The First Voyage Around the World", was to provide important
details regarding the first circumnavigation and to discover and learn about the world.
He gave a detailed account of Magellan’s expedition, which began 1519 and ended
1522. He described every detail of their experience traveling around the world. His
document is considered one of the most important evidence connected to geographical
discoveries in the 16th century, serving as more than just evidence and a historical
account of the world’s spectacular discoveries. Indeed, Pigafetta’s aim in writing is to
showcase the beauty and wonders of the world, including the exploration and discovery
of the Philippine islands. The document was produced by an Italian chronicler, Francisco
Antonio Pigafetta.
2. What is the main theme of the document? Explain briefly.
Answer: Pigafetta’s document focuses on exposing wonders of the world that create a
sense of splendor with regard to the first expedition around the world. He describes the
people, places, cultures, traditions, and natural resources they encountered along their
voyage. His document had such an impact on the readers because of the wonderful
aspects and detailed information it contained during their journey. Therefore, Pigafetta’s
theme is to enchant readers and allow us to immerse ourselves in the scenario.
3. What specific information of importance is provided in the text? Explain its importance
to the understanding of the study of Philippine history.
Answer: Through his writing, our country’s abundance was discovered. He furnishes
important details about the discovery of the islands and the people inhabiting them.
Specifically, he depicted how our ancestors lived and helped us see how Filipinos of the
past lived and the way they adapted when Magellan and his men went to the Philippines.
In addition, our natives made a significant contribution to Magellan’s survival. Through
this gesture of our ancestors, who had shown a great deal of concern and compassion for
our Filipino ancestors. This led me to believe that we Filipinos have always been
hospitable and accommodating and that represents a continuation of our history.
4. What light does it shed on people, their politics and economy, religious and cultural
practices? Analyze the text.
Answer: After reading the document, we realized the importance of understanding
Philippine history. How our ancestors have lived in the past. How their system of
governance works, what their customs, values, traditions, practices, and beliefs we
before the colonizers came. Our religion was influenced by Magellan. In politics, we
have our own monarchy. In this present time, we have realized that people no longer live
in the same way due to colonization and foreign influences. It also shows that we,
Filipinos already have our own civilization and do not need to be colonized to be
civilized in politics.
5. What is your personal evaluation on the impact of the document in the understanding of
the 16th century people and their culture on the island?
Answer: Pigafetta’s document impacted the understanding of the people, especially in
the 16th century. It shows how they live in a simple way, how they love their culture,
how they show their values and give courtesy to each other in the islands. The document
made it clear for us to know how our ancestors have lived in the past. Thus, we realize
that our world is full of different cultures that are anchored to the geographical and
topographical sites of a certain country.
