LIONGO : MITOLOHIYA NG KENYA / FILIPINO 10

Summary

The story of Liongo, a legendary figure from Kenya, showcases his unmatched strength and skills as a poet and warrior. Born in a coastal village, Liongo was invincible except for a vulnerability in his bellybutton. He became a king but faced betrayal from his cousin, King Ahmad, who sought to eliminate him. Despite being imprisoned, Liongo managed to escape and later excelled in archery competitions. However, his journey was marked by tragedy, as his own son ultimately killed him, sealing the sorrowful end to his tale.

Takeaways

• 😀 The African continent is the second largest and has the second largest population in the world, home to many diverse tribes with rich cultures and traditions.
• 😀 Kenya, a country in East Africa, is bordered by Ethiopia to the north, Somalia to the northeast, Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, and Sudan to the northwest.
• 😀 The script focuses on the African myth of Liongo, a hero born in one of the seven coastal villages in Kenya, recognized for his excellence as a poet.
• 😀 Liongo is portrayed as a powerful and nearly invincible figure, with a giant-like physique and immunity to most weapons, but vulnerable to being struck by a needle to his navel.
• 😀 Liongo’s mother, Maaso, is aware of his vulnerability, and it is through his skills that he ascends to become king of several regions, including the Tana Delta and Shanga.
• 😀 Liongo eventually conquers the throne of Pate, originally ruled by his cousin, King Ahmad, who brought the first Islamic leadership to the region.
• 😀 King Ahmad seeks to eliminate Liongo and imprisons him, but Liongo escapes after an inspiring song is sung by people outside the prison.
• 😀 After escaping, Liongo finds refuge in the forest, trains with a bow and arrow, and becomes skilled enough to win an archery contest.
• 😀 The contest, however, was a trap set by the king to capture Liongo, but he escapes once again.
• 😀 Eventually, Liongo wins a battle against the Galla people, and as a reward, the king offers his daughter to Liongo, integrating him into the royal family. Later, Liongo has a son, but his son kills him.

Q & A

What is the significance of the continent of Africa in the context of the story?

Africa is the second largest continent in both size and population, with a rich diversity of tribes, cultures, and traditions, providing a deep historical and cultural backdrop for the mythological tales, such as that of Liongo.

Where is Kenya located and what are its neighboring countries?

Kenya is located in East Africa and is bordered by Ethiopia to the north, Somalia to the northeast, Tanzania to the south, Uganda to the west, and Sudan to the northwest.

Who is Liongo in the myth and what is his most notable characteristic?

Liongo is a heroic figure from the myth, renowned as the best poet in his land. He is described as powerful, giant-like, and invulnerable to weapons, though he has a weak spot in his navel.

What is the significance of Liongo’s weakness?

Liongo’s only vulnerability lies in his navel, where a needle strike would cause his death. This is a key detail in the story, as it is the only thing that can harm him despite his strength and invincibility.

How does Liongo become king of OC and the Tana Delta?

Liongo rises to power by conquering the throne of OC and the Tana Delta, demonstrating his strength and strategic prowess. He also becomes ruler of Shanga and Pate after successfully overthrowing the previous ruler.

What was the relationship between Liongo and King Ahmad of Pate?

Liongo and King Ahmad were related, with King Ahmad initially sitting on the throne of Pate. However, King Ahmad sought to remove Liongo to maintain his rule, leading to Liongo’s imprisonment.

How does Liongo manage to escape from prison?

Liongo escapes from prison by singing a praise song that distracts the guards, allowing him to break free from his chains unnoticed, and then he flees into the forest.

What role did the archery contest play in Liongo’s escape?

The archery contest was a trap set by King Ahmad to capture Liongo. However, Liongo wins the contest and manages to escape once again, further showcasing his talents and resilience.

How did Liongo become a part of the royal family?

Liongo became part of the royal family after defeating the Waga and was given King Ahmad’s daughter in marriage, solidifying his position and influence within the kingdom.

What tragic event occurs at the end of the story involving Liongo?

The tragic ending occurs when Liongo's own son kills him, which brings a tragic conclusion to his journey, despite his strength and numerous victories.