Lecture Notes: First Voyage Around the World by Magellan

Lecturer: Teacher Jules

Overview

• Focus: Content and contextual analysis of primary sources in Philippine history.
• Primary Source: "First Voyage Around the World" by Antonio Pigafetta.
• Context: Chronicles of contemporary 16th-century voyagers.

Background of Antonio Pigafetta

• Birth: Late 15th century.
• Nationality: Italian; native of Vicenza, Italy.
• Education: Studied astronomy, geography, cartography.
• Career: Served on ships of the Knights of Rhodes; joined Magellan's expedition in 1519.

Magellan's Expedition

• Duration: August 1519 - September 1522.
• Leadership: Initially by Ferdinand Magellan, later by Juan Sebastian Elcano after Magellan's death.
• Significance: First circumnavigation of the world.

Pigafetta's Travelogue

• Importance: Major primary source on pre-colonial Philippines.
• Content:
  • Magellan's arrival in the Philippines.
  • Interaction with local leaders.
  • Battle of Mactan and Magellan's death.
  • Departure of Magellan's fleet.

Contextual Analysis

• Perspective: Reflects European views of the 16th century.
• Historical Influence: Referenced by Western literary figures like Shakespeare.
• Cultural Observations: Insights into pre-colonial Philippines and European perspectives on it.

Key Events in the Voyage

1. Ladrones Islands: Known today as the Marianas Islands.

   • Observations: Described as "ingenious and great thieves."

2. Humunoo Island: Now known as Humunhon.

   • Significance: First signs of gold; named Archipelago of Saint Lazarus.

3. Meeting with Local Leaders:

   • Raja Suyago and Raja Kalambu (Butuan and Karagua).
   • First Mass: Historic event leading to the planting of Magellan's Cross.

4. Battle of Mactan:

   • Leaders: Magellan vs. Chief Si Lapu-Lapu.
   • Outcome: Magellan killed; European forces were outnumbered 49 to 1500.

Conclusion

• Significance of the Chronicle: Essential for understanding pre-colonial Philippine society.
• Perspective: Must be interpreted with the understanding of its 16th-century European context.

Additional Notes

• Preservation: Magellan's Cross still exists in Cebu City.
• Cultural Impact: The writings provide a detailed account of early interactions between Europeans and the Philippines.

Reflection

• Understanding: Insights into the first European voyages and their impact on Philippine history.
• Critical Analysis: Consider the Eurocentric view inherent in Pigafetta's writings.