Sunday, 5 February 2012

February week 1


What's "wrong" with HISTORY

I just read an article in the newspaper about the on-going debate if legendary hero of Malacca Hang Tuah had really existed or is in fact a fictional figure painted to exhibit exemplary attributes. Though my opinions aren't significant, I personally believe that there is a huge possibility that Hang Tuah was real basically because I feel that no one would actually create a character, described and portrayed at length enough to be known as a legend in this land, just to capture the nations' heart, plus, it has been revealed that the name, Hang Tuah is widely recognised in Indonesia as well. Just as some suggested, I think the problem that led to this controversy is due to over depiction that turned out somewhat unrealistic. 

Anyway, the writer strongly urged that the history subject should not be played up nor presented falsely without basis, but instead stressed that history is similar to science that is "ever expanding". In his words, he shared,"When evidence appears that contradicts your hypothesis, it's time to reevaluate your original ideas. I totally agree. History should not be viewed as something permanent that stays once it is written in school textbooks, rather it should be verified from time to time to ascertain its facts in the the light of new evidence. Currently however, students are to obediently follow through history lessons aware or unaware of this controversy, just for, as teachers put it, "the sake of exams". 

Wait!.... why am I talking about History of all things? Could it be that I'm interested in it?
THAT'S....correct. :-)  And just why?...

*to be continued*

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