Causing, Angelo Josh T.

March 04, 2023

Class Code: 16-182

Preparatory Activity Assessment 5: Rizal Per Chapter

A. Noli Me Tangere: CHAPTER II – “Crisostomo Ibarra”

Chapter II of Noli Me Tangere, titled "Crisostomo Ibarra," introduces the novel's

protagonist. The chapter begins with the arrival of Manila of the young and rich Ibarra after

his studies in Europe. Ibarra is a Spanish mestizo who intends to marry María Clara, his

childhood love. He is greeted by his father's old friend, the monk Father Damaso, but quickly

finds that the government and the church are both corrupt. He also discovers that his father

died in prison due to the friars' schemes, which spurs him to pursue justice.

The importance of this chapter to the book stems from its role as an introduction to the

main character and his goals. Readers are introduced to the harsh reality of Filipino life during

the Spanish colonial era via Ibarra's viewpoint, where powerful friars and unscrupulous

government officials abuse ordinary people. This establishes the novel's overall subject of

social justice while also serving as a criticism of the repressive colonial regime.

The chapter's message and morals emphasize the significance of pursuing justice and

change in a corrupt society. Ibarra's experiences demonstrate that even the affluent and

privileged are not immune to the colonial regime's abuses and that the only way to affect

change is to challenge corrupt institutions straight on.

 Rizal is portrayed in the chapter as a writer who uses his work to expose the injustices and

corruption in the colonial administration and the church. Rizal depicts the Filipino people's

hardships and ambitions against their oppressors via the figure of Ibarra. Rizal's nationalist and

reformer tendencies are evident in his portrayal of Ibarra as seeking change and justice for the

downtrodden.

B. El Filibusterismo: Chapter XXIII – “A Corpse”

Chapter XXIII of El Filibusterismo, entitled "A Corpse," is pivotal in the novel. The

chapter begins with a discovery of a dead body floating in the Pasig River and the authorities'

subsequent investigation. The corpse is eventually identified as the body of the wealthy

businessman Don Custodio, who had earlier been targeted by the main character, Simoun, for

his role in the oppression of the Filipino people. The chapter concludes with Simoun's public

denunciation of the corrupt officials who were complicit in Don Custodio's death.

The significance of this chapter to the entire novel lies in its representation of the

consequences of Simoun's plans for revenge. Simoun, who had been working behind the scenes

to bring about the downfall of the colonial regime, is shown to be a complex character whose

actions have unintended consequences. The chapter also highlights the depth of corruption in

the government and the lengths those in power will go to protect their interests.

The message and moral of the chapter emphasize the need for caution and prudence in

seeking change. Simoun's desire for revenge leads to the death of innocent people, including

Don Custodio, and highlights the dangers of blindly pursuing a singular goal. The chapter also

underscores the importance of personal responsibility and accountability for one's actions.
 The chapter depicts Rizal as a writer who uses his novel to expose the corrupt colonial

system and critique the motivations behind the Philippine Revolution. Rizal's characteristic as

a reformist is evident in his portrayal of Simoun, who represents a revolutionary figure whose

methods are ultimately doomed to fail. The chapter also highlights Rizal's belief in the power

of literature as a tool for social change, as Simoun's public denunciation of the corrupt officials

catalyzes the eventual downfall of the colonial regime.