LIFE, WORKS AND WRITING OF JOSE RIZAL

TOPIC: NOLI METANGERE:

READING MATERIAL:
Introduction:
Noli Me Tangere is a novel written by the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. It was published in 1887 and is
considered one of the most influential works of Philippine literature. The title, which means "Touch Me Not" in Latin, is
taken from the Bible, specifically John 20:17, where Jesus tells Mary Magdalene not to touch him after his resurrection.
It is a social commentary on the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era and the injustices suffered by the Filipino
people at the hands of the colonial government and the Catholic Church. The novel follows the story of Juan Crisostomo
Ibarra, a young Filipino returning home from Europe to pursue his father’s legacy. However, he discovers the injustices
and corruption of the colonial government and the church, and his life is changed forever.
Throughout the novel, Rizal uses vivid descriptions and storytelling to depict the oppression and suffering of the Filipino
people. He highlights the abuses of the colonial government and the church, as well as the corrupt practices of the wealthy
and powerful. He also delves into the personal lives of the characters, exploring their motivations and the effects of
colonialism on their relationships and identities.
Noli Me Tangere is more than just a story; it is a critique of Spanish colonialism and a call for social change. It exposed
the injustices and oppression experienced by Filipinos during the colonial period and sparked a revolution against Spanish
rule. The novel inspired a generation of Filipino nationalists and continues to be studied and celebrated as a symbol of
Philippine resistance and national identity.
Noli Me Tangere is a powerful work of literature that has had a lasting impact on Philippine society and culture. It
remains an important text for understanding the country’s history and the struggles of its people for justice and equality.
REASONS WHY NOLI WAS WRITTEN:
To expose the injustices and corruption of the Spanish colonial government in the Philippines. Rizal used his novel as a
tool to critique the oppressive policies and practices of the colonial government and the Catholic Church, which he
believed were detrimental to the Filipino people.
To awaken the Filipino people's national consciousness and inspire them to fight for their rights and independence. Rizal
believed that by educating Filipinos about the injustices they were experiencing, he could encourage them to take action
and push for reforms.
To portray the Filipino people's struggles and aspirations through the novel's characters and their experiences. Rizal
wanted to show the world that Filipinos were a proud and dignified people, deserving of respect and recognition.
To demonstrate the power of literature as a means of social commentary and change. Rizal believed that literature could
be used as a tool for social transformation, and he saw Noli Me Tangere as his contribution to this goal.
Overall, Noli Me Tangere was written as a call to action for Filipinos to resist Spanish colonial rule and to demand justice
and equality for all.

REASONS WHY WE STUDY NOLI METANGERE:

The novel was written for several reasons, some of which are:
1. To expose the injustices and corruption in the Spanish colonial government. Rizal wrote the novel to shed light on
the social ills of his time and to denounce the abuses and oppression of the colonial government.
2. To awaken the Filipino people's national consciousness. Rizal wanted to inspire the Filipinos to unite and fight for
their freedom and independence from Spanish colonial rule.
3. To promote education and enlightenment. Rizal believed that education was crucial in the liberation of the
Filipino people. He wrote the novel to encourage Filipinos to educate themselves and to understand their rights as
human beings.
4. To advocate for reforms in the Philippine society. Rizal believed that the Philippines needed a social and political
reform to progress and become a better nation. He used his novel to express his ideas and proposed solutions to
the country's problems.
5. To understand Philippine history: Noli Me Tangere provides a glimpse into the Philippine society during the
Spanish colonial period, including the abuses and injustices committed by the colonizers.
6. To Appreciate Philippine literature: Noli Me Tangere is a masterpiece of Philippine literature, written by a
national hero, Jose Rizal. Studying this work allows us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of Philippine
literature.
7. To Develop critical thinking skills: The novel raises important issues and themes such as corruption, social
injustice, and colonialism. Studying these themes can help develop critical thinking skills and promote intellectual
inquiry.
8. To understanding the role of literature in social change: Noli Me Tangere played a significant role in the
Philippine Revolution, inspiring many Filipinos to fight for their rights and freedom. Studying this novel can help
us understand the power of literature in effecting social change.

SUMMARY OF EACH CHAPTER IN NOLI METANGERE:

Chapter 1: A Gathering: The chapter introduces the setting and the characters. Juan Crisostomo Ibarra returns to the
Philippines after studying abroad.
Chapter 2: Crisostomo Ibarra: The chapter describes the life of the protagonist, Juan Crisostomo Ibarra. It also introduces
other characters, including Don Rafael Ibarra and Maria Clara.
Chapter 3: The Dinner: Ibarra attends a dinner party hosted by the wealthy Capitan Tiago. The party is attended by the
high society of Manila.
Chapter 4: Heretic and Filibuster: The chapter introduces the character of Padre Damaso and his animosity towards Ibarra.
Chapter 5: A Star in a Dark Night: Ibarra meets the beautiful and religious Maria Clara at the party.
Chapter 6: Captain Tiago: The chapter explores the life of Capitan Tiago and his relationship with the Spanish friars.
Chapter 7: Idyll on an Azotea: Ibarra and Maria Clara spend time together and get to know each other.
Chapter 8: The Brothers: The chapter introduces Elias and his brother, who are both revolutionaries.
Chapter 9: Rizal's View of Women: The chapter explores Rizal's views on women and their role in society.
Chapter 10: The Village: Ibarra visits his hometown, San Diego, and sees the poverty and oppression that the villagers
experience.
Chapter 11: The Rulers: Ibarra learns more about the Spanish rulers and their hold over the Filipinos.
Chapter 12: The Bath: The chapter shows the conflict between Ibarra and the friars, as well as the corruption in the
church.
Chapter 13: The Sniper: Ibarra is attacked by a sniper and is saved by Elias.
Chapter 14: The Council of the Gods: The chapter shows the friars' fear of the people's growing discontent and their
efforts to suppress any dissent.
Chapter 15: The Forest: Elias takes Ibarra to the forest and shows him the plight of the people.
Chapter 16: The Story of a Mother: The chapter tells the story of a mother who sacrifices everything for her child.
Chapter 17: Basilio: The chapter introduces the character of Basilio and his struggles.
Chapter 18: The Filibusters: The chapter shows the rebellion of the Filipinos against their Spanish oppressors.
Chapter 19: Dreams: The chapter explores the dreams and aspirations of the Filipinos.
Chapter 20: The Council: The friars hold a council to discuss the growing rebellion.
Chapter 21: The Presentation: Ibarra presents his plans for a school to the friars, but they reject it.
Chapter 22: The Exile: Ibarra is exiled from his own country.
Chapter 23: Farewell: Ibarra says goodbye to Maria Clara before leaving the country.
Chapter 24: Between Two Worlds: Ibarra lives in Europe and continues his education.
Chapter 25: Nuptial: Maria Clara is forced to marry Linares, despite her feelings for Ibarra.
Chapter 26: The Revolution: The chapter shows the Filipinos' continued struggle against their oppressors.
Chapter 27: The Crisostomo of Imperialism: Ibarra learns about the imperialism of other countries.
Chapter 28: The Subversive: Ibarra becomes more radicalized and begins to plan a revolution.
Chapter 29: The Lighthouse: Elias
Chapter 30: "The Fête in San Diego"
The chapter starts with a description of the preparations for the town fiesta in San Diego. Ibarra is invited to attend and he
uses this opportunity to gather information about his father's death. He meets an old man who tells him about the
circumstances surrounding the incident. The old man also tells him about the town's corrupt officials and the injustices
that the people have to suffer. Ibarra decides to use his influence to help the town.
Chapter 31: "Reconciliation"
Maria Clara tells Elias that she wants to reconcile with Ibarra. Elias goes to see Ibarra to ask for his forgiveness. Ibarra
forgives him and also forgives the people who caused his father's death. Elias tells Ibarra that he will help him in his quest
for justice.
Chapter 32: "Tatakut"
Tatakut is a famous healer who is believed to have the power to cure any illness. He is summoned to cure the governor's
daughter who is suffering from a mysterious illness. Tatakut performs a ritual to cure the girl but she dies anyway. Tatakut
is accused of killing her and is arrested. In prison, he meets Ibarra and they discuss the injustices that are happening in the
country.
Chapter 33: "The Ancestors"
Ibarra and Elias go to the mountains to visit the graves of their ancestors. They talk about their families and the legacy that
they have inherited. They also talk about the importance of education in the development of the country.
Chapter 34: "The Poisoned Bread"
Ibarra is invited to a banquet in his honor. He is suspicious of the governor's intentions but decides to attend anyway. At
the banquet, he is given a piece of bread that is poisoned. He collapses and is rushed to the hospital. He is saved by the
timely intervention of Elias.
Chapter 35: "The Forge"
Ibarra goes to the forge to have a weapon made. He talks to the blacksmith about the injustices that are happening in the
country. The blacksmith tells him that he cannot fight with weapons alone and that he needs the support of the people.
Chapter 36: "The Printing Press"
Ibarra decides to start a newspaper to expose the injustices that are happening in the country. He buys a printing press and
hires a staff to help him. The first issue of the newspaper is a success and it becomes very popular.
Chapter 37: "The Confession"
Padre Damaso is on his deathbed and he confesses to Ibarra that he was responsible for the death of his father. He tells
him that he did it out of jealousy and hatred. He asks for Ibarra's forgiveness but Ibarra cannot bring himself to forgive
him.
Chapter 38: "The Trial"
Tatakut is put on trial for the death of the governor's daughter. The trial is a farce and Tatakut is found guilty. He is
sentenced to death. Ibarra tries to intervene but he is powerless.
Chapter 39: "The Execution"
Tatakut is executed by hanging. Ibarra witnesses the execution and is deeply affected by it. He realizes that he cannot
fight the injustices alone and that he needs the support of the people.
Chapter 40: "Maria Clara's Letter"
Maria Clara sends a letter to Ibarra telling him that she is dying. She asks him to come and see her before it is too late.
Ibarra rushes to her side but he is too late. Maria Clara dies in his arms.
Chapter 41: "The Voice of the Dead"
Ibarra is grief-stricken over the death of Maria Clara. He hears

Chapter 41: Elias and Salome

Elias is a mysterious figure who is familiar with the forest and its secrets. He is secretly in love with Salome, who is the
daughter of the wealthy and influential Dona Victorina. Elias and Salome meet in the forest, and Elias confesses his love
for her. Salome tells him that she loves him too, but their love is impossible due to the differences in their social status.
Chapter 42: An Examination of Conscience
Father Damaso becomes seriously ill, and in his delirium, he confesses his sins to the people around him. He admits to
having caused harm to many people, including Ibarra's father. Ibarra forgives him, but Father Damaso's confession creates
more enemies for him.
Chapter 43: The Church and State
Ibarra attends a reception at the Governor-General's palace, where he witnesses the corruption and hypocrisy of the
government officials. He also has a conversation with the friar, who tells him that the church and state are two separate
entities, but in reality, they are intertwined.
Chapter 44: Pasquinades
Pasquinades are satirical writings that are posted in public places, criticizing the government officials and the friars. The
government officials and friars are angered by these writings and try to find out who is behind them. They suspect Ibarra,
but he denies any involvement.
Chapter 45: The Cockpit
Ibarra attends a cockfight, where he witnesses the brutality and violence of the people. He also sees how the government
officials and the friars enjoy these kinds of events. He is disgusted by their behavior and decides to leave.
Chapter 46: The Ancestors
Ibarra visits his ancestors' tomb and sees the inscriptions on the tombstones, which reveal the injustices committed by the
Spaniards against the Filipinos. He realizes that his ancestors fought against the oppressors and decides to continue their
legacy.
Chapter 47: The Eve of the Fiesta
The town prepares for the fiesta, and everyone is busy with the preparations. Ibarra and Maria Clara meet, and they
declare their love for each other. However, Maria Clara tells Ibarra that their love is impossible, as she is destined to
become a nun.
Chapter 48: The Sermon
During the fiesta, the friar delivers a sermon, which is filled with hypocrisy and lies. He talks about the importance of love
and forgiveness, but in reality, he is the one who spreads hatred and fear.
Chapter 49: The Procession
The town holds a religious procession, where the people carry the image of the Virgin Mary. Ibarra joins the procession,
but he is disgusted by the display of wealth and power by the government officials and the friars. He also sees how the
people are oppressed and exploited by the Spaniards.
Chapter 50: The Voice of a Brother
Elias warns Ibarra about the dangers of his plans and tells him to leave the country. He also tells him about his own plans
to revolt against the oppressors. Ibarra is torn between leaving the country and continuing his fight for justice.

Chapter 51: The Catacombs Elias hides in the catacombs with his band of rebels, and they plan their next move against
the Spanish government. Meanwhile, Ibarra learns about Elias's plan and tries to intervene.
Chapter 52: The Town of San Diego Elias and his group launch an attack on the town of San Diego, killing several
members of the Guardia Civil. However, the attack is ultimately unsuccessful, and many of the rebels are captured or
killed.
Chapter 53: The Departure Ibarra decides to leave the Philippines and start a new life abroad. Before he leaves, he visits
the grave of Maria Clara and makes a promise to continue fighting for the freedom and welfare of the Filipino people.
Chapter 54: The Return Several years later, Ibarra returns to the Philippines, now a changed man with a new name and
identity. He meets with a group of Filipinos who are planning a revolution against the Spanish government.
Chapter 55: The Arrow and the Bow The revolutionaries plan their attack against the Spanish government, and Ibarra
helps to train the young men in the use of weapons. However, they face challenges and setbacks along the way.
Chapter 56: The Revolution The revolution begins, and the Filipinos launch a surprise attack against the Spanish
government. The revolutionaries are ultimately successful, and the Spanish government is overthrown.
Chapter 57: The Flight Ibarra and the other revolutionaries flee the country, fearing retaliation from the Spanish
government. However, they continue to work towards the betterment of the Filipino people from abroad.
Chapter 58: The Corpse Father Damaso dies, and his death is met with mixed reactions from the Filipino community.
Meanwhile, the new Spanish governor arrives in the Philippines and promises to make changes.
Chapter 59: The Two Women Elias returns to the Philippines and reunites with his wife and daughter. Meanwhile, the
governor's wife becomes involved in the lives of the Filipino people and tries to make a positive difference.
Chapter 60: The Oath The Filipino revolutionaries take an oath of allegiance to the new government, pledging to work
towards the betterment of the country and its people. Ibarra reflects on the journey that has led him to this point and the
sacrifices that were made along the way.
Chapter 61: Elias’ Plan Elias reveals his plan to Ibarra, which involves him sacrificing himself to ignite a revolution that
will lead to the liberation of the oppressed Filipinos. Ibarra is hesitant at first but eventually agrees to help Elias.
Chapter 62: The Gathering Elias gathers his men and meets with the local friars to discuss their demands. The friars refuse
to listen and order their arrest, but the revolutionaries fight back and kill some of the friars. Elias is mortally wounded in
the process.
Chapter 63: Padre Damaso’s Intercession Padre Damaso, who has fallen out of favor with the other friars, tries to
intervene and save the remaining friars, but he is unsuccessful. He dies shortly after, and his death is celebrated by some
of the townspeople.
Chapter 64: The Lost Child Sisa’s daughter Basilia, who has become a nun, returns to her hometown to find her brother
Crispin’s killer. She meets with Elias, who tells her that the killer is already dead. She then visits her mother Sisa, who has
gone mad after the loss of her two sons, and helps her find peace.

CHARACTERS IN THE NOLI METANGERE

Major Characters:
1. Crisostomo Ibarra - The protagonist of the novel, Ibarra is a young and idealistic man who returns to the
Philippines after studying in Europe. He is characterized as being intelligent, wealthy, and passionate about
improving the lives of his countrymen. Throughout the novel, Ibarra is subjected to various injustices and
corruption in Philippine society, leading him to seek justice and reform.
2. Elías - A mysterious man who becomes Ibarra's ally and confidant, Elías is a boatman who is also an outlaw. He
is characterized as being brave, selfless, and loyal to the cause of Filipino liberation. Elías helps Ibarra in his fight
against the corrupt authorities and serves as a symbol of hope and resistance.
3. Padre Damaso - One of the main antagonists of the novel, Padre Damaso is a powerful and corrupt friar who
abuses his authority to further his own interests. He is characterized as being greedy, arrogant, and vindictive.
Padre Damaso represents the Spanish colonial system and the oppression that the Filipinos experienced under
Spanish rule.
4. Maria Clara - The love interest of Ibarra and the daughter of Padre Damaso, Maria Clara is a tragic figure who
represents the suffering and oppression of Filipino women. She is characterized as being obedient, gentle, and
religious, but her innocence and purity are tainted by the sins of her father and the corrupt friars.
5. Padre Salvi - Another antagonist in the novel, Padre Salvi is a cunning and manipulative friar who is obsessed
with Maria Clara. He is characterized as being hypocritical, sadistic, and corrupt. Padre Salvi represents the moral
decay and corruption of the church and the Spanish colonial system.
6. Kapitan Tiago - A wealthy and influential businessman, Kapitan Tiago is Maria Clara's father and Ibarra's
benefactor. He is characterized as being generous, hospitable, and gullible, but also weak and easily manipulated
 by the friars. Kapitan Tiago represents the Filipino bourgeoisie who benefited from the Spanish colonial system
but were also oppressed by it.
7. Sisa - A poor and suffering mother who loses her two sons to the brutality of the Spanish colonial authorities, Sisa
is characterized as being kind, compassionate, and maternal. She represents the oppressed and exploited masses
who suffered under Spanish colonialism.
8. Basilio and Crispin - The sons of Sisa, Basilio and Crispin are young boys who are forced to work for the friars to
pay off their mother's debt. They are characterized as being innocent, helpless, and victimized by the cruelty and
greed of the Spanish colonial authorities. Basilio and Crispin represent the future generation of Filipinos who
must continue the struggle for liberation and justice.
Minor Characters:
1. Don Anastasio - He is the sacristan mayor, a minor church official. He is portrayed as corrupt and abusive, using
his position to exploit the poor and enrich himself.
2. Padre Salvi - He is the Franciscan friar who serves as the parish priest of San Diego. He is portrayed as a
hypocrite and a womanizer, who abuses his power and exploits the people for his own gain.
3. Tia Isabel - She is the aunt of Maria Clara, and the housekeeper of Kapitan Tiago. She is a loyal and dedicated
servant, who takes care of Maria Clara and acts as her confidant.
4. Andeng - She is the housemaid of Kapitan Tiago. She is portrayed as a kind and hardworking person, who is
deeply devoted to her employer and his family.
5. Sinang - She is the daughter of Sisa, and the sister of Basilio and Crispin. She is a symbol of the innocence and
purity of the youth, who are victimized by the injustices of society.
6. Linares - He is a painter who is commissioned by Kapitan Tiago to paint Maria Clara's portrait. He is portrayed as
a talented artist, but also as a person who is easily swayed by money and power.
7. Donya Victorina - She is the wife of Don Tiburcio de Espadaña. She is portrayed as a pretentious person, who
tries to pass herself off as a Spaniard. She is also a hypochondriac, who is obsessed with her health.
8. Lucas - He is the former servant of Crisostomo Ibarra, who betrays him and works for the friars. He is portrayed
as a cowardly person, who is easily swayed by fear and money.
9. Elías' mother - Elías' mother is a blind woman who represents the suffering and hardships that the Filipino people
endured during the Spanish colonization.
10. Pilosopong Tasyo - Pilosopong Tasyo is a philosopher who is ridiculed by his peers for his radical ideas. He
represents the intellectuals who were persecuted by the Spanish colonial authorities for their ideas and beliefs.
11. Hermana Penchang - Hermana Penchang is a wealthy woman who is known for her piety and charitable acts. She
represents the hypocrisy of the colonial elite who used their wealth and power to maintain their status quo while
pretending to be virtuous and pious.
12. Tyago delos Santos is a wealthy businessman who is obsessed with maintaining his social status and wealth. He is
willing to do anything to preserve his wealth and power, even if it means betraying his own people. Tyago is also
a hypocrite who claims to be devoutly religious, but in reality, he uses religion as a means to manipulate others
and justify his actions. He represents the corrupt and exploitative upper class that collaborated with the Spanish
colonial government to maintain their wealth and privilege.
13. Kapitan Selo is a wealthy landowner who is more sympathetic to the plight of the Filipino people. He uses his
power and influence to help his community and support local initiatives, such as building a school and promoting
education. Kapitan Selo is also portrayed as a strong and compassionate leader who is respected by the people he
serves. He represents the more enlightened and benevolent members of the upper class who recognized the
injustices of colonial rule and sought to make positive changes.
SYMBOLS IN THE NOLI METANGERE:
"Noli Me Tangere" contains several symbols that add depth to its themes and characters. Here are some of the prominent
symbols and the chapters where they appear:
1. The Lamp - The lamp symbolizes knowledge and enlightenment. It can be seen in Chapters 1, 6, 7, 10, 24, and
60.
2. The Crocodile - The crocodile represents the government and the church. It can be seen in Chapter 5.
3. The Betel Nut Box - The betel nut box represents the traditional Filipino values and culture. It can be seen in
Chapters 5 and 31.
4. The Garden - The garden symbolizes the Garden of Eden and the loss of innocence. It can be seen in Chapters 11,
17, 23, and 61.
5. The Poisoned Medicine - The poisoned medicine symbolizes the corrupt system in the Philippines during the
Spanish colonial period. It can be seen in Chapters 20, 23, 27, 30, and 42.
6. The Butterfly - The butterfly represents Maria Clara's character and her transformation. It can be seen in Chapters
20, 25, and 27.
7. The Spiderweb - The spiderweb represents the intricate web of corruption and deceit. It can be seen in Chapters
31, 35, and 36.
8. The Cockroach - The cockroach symbolizes the Spanish colonizers and their oppressive rule. It can be seen in
Chapters 31, 35, 36, and 41.
9. The poisonous plants - found in Chapter 1. These plants symbolize the corrupt practices of the Spanish friars and
their negative influence on the Philippine society.
10. The Holy Water - found in Chapter 6. The holy water symbolizes the hypocrisy and superficial piety of the
Spanish friars. They use it as a tool to deceive the people and maintain their power and influence.
11. The Green Ribbon - found in Chapter 7. The green ribbon symbolizes the romantic love between Crisostomo
Ibarra and Maria Clara. It also represents their hope for a better future for their country.
12. The Basilio's Poultry - found in Chapter 11. The poultry symbolizes the poverty and hardships that the common
people endure under the Spanish colonial rule.
13. The Simoun's Cigar - found in Chapter 30. The cigar symbolizes the power and control that Simoun has over
people. He uses it as a tool to manipulate and influence the people around him to achieve his ulterior motives.
14. The Cracked Bell - found in Chapter 39. The cracked bell symbolizes the degeneration of the Philippine society
under the Spanish colonial rule. It represents the broken dreams and aspirations of the people and their struggle
for freedom.
15. The Blind Beggar - found in Chapter 54. The blind beggar symbolizes the fate of the Filipino people under the
Spanish colonial rule. They are blind to their own oppression and suffering, and they are forced to beg for their
basic needs and rights.
ACTIVITIES:
References:
Rizal, J. (2006). Noli Me Tangere. Penguin Classics.
Anderson, B. R. (1988). Noli Me Tangere: On the Raising of a National Symbol. Critical Inquiry, 14(2), 393-425.
Guerrero, L. (1998). The First Filipino: A Biography of José Rizal. Guerrero Publishing.
Abad, R. G. (2000). The Imagined Pilipinas: José Rizal and the Emergence of National Identity. Ateneo de Manila
University Press.
Pascual, R. (2010). Noli Me Tangere and the Literary History of the Filipino Book. Inter-Asia Cultural Studies, 11(1),
117-133.
Lumbera, B. (2008). Noli Me Tangere: The Novel as a Weapon of Reform. Anvil Publishing

GROUP ACTIVITIES FOR SUBMISSION AND PRESENTATION IN CLASS:

Activity 1: CHARACTERIZATION: (20 pts)
Pick 1 minor character and 1 major character and characterize them based on the guide. Avoid duplication
from the other groups.
Make a research on the characters chosen and characterize them.
Activity 2: ILLUSTRATIONG SYMBOLS: Draw a symbol of your choice in a one whole sheet of short
bond paper. Pick one from the list in the reading material given you. Research on the meaning of this
symbol and explain it in class. Do not just rely on the explanation in the reading. In our current context
what do these symbols represent?

Activity 3: RADIO DRAMA PRODUCTION: Listen to a sample radio drama. Pick a chapter in the novel
and record a radio drama episode of that chapter.