174 
XLIV,—POETRY, 
The poetical compositions, which in some rude form appear 
among the rudest tribes, should be taken down carefully as 
to words, and also as to the musical intonation with which 
they are chanted. It has to be ascertained, if possible, 
whether the poem or song is one handed down from former 
generations, or a modern or extempore composition. Old 
records of national and personal history, and mythical and 
religious ideas, are often handed down in such old composi¬ 
tions, which also frequently preserve ancient words and 
forms of speech which have been disused in ordinary con¬ 
versation. 
1. Are poetical compositions common, old and new ? 2. 
Are they repeated in precise unaltered form, and known to 
the people generally ? 3. Are poetic compositions still often 
made ] is there any thing like an order of bards ? and do they 
receive rewards for making or singing them ? 4. Are old 
historical events or personages commemorated in songs ? 5. 
Are there special chants for religious purposes, prayer and 
praise of gods, &c. ? 6. Are such chants sung at religious 
and other festivals ? and by whom ? 7. What are the rules 
of melody in chants ? 8. Do they follow any definable rules 
of rhythm or metre ? and are particular words used in 
order that they may suit this ? (See XLI.) 9. Are any 
peculiar, mystic, or ancient words used in poetry ? 10. Are 
choruses in use ? and how far do they consist of intelligible 
words, and how far of nonsense-syllables ? 11. Are there 
any performances of a dramatic nature, commemorating 
religious legends, wars, &c. ? and if so, is the dialogue in set 
forms handed down by tradition ? (See LXVII.) 
E. B. T. 
