Jurial, Janna Ann B.
BSSCIED-3C LIFE AND WORKS OF RIZAL
ACTIVITY 6
1. Make a table comparing and contrasting Rizal's & Morga's views on Phil. culture
Aspect of
Philippine Jose Rizal's View
Culture
Influence of Acknowledged the richness and
Indigenous significance of pre-colonial Filipino
Traditions culture, highlighting its achievements
in arts, literature, and social
organization. Emphasized the need to
preserve and celebrate indigenous
traditions.
Spanish Criticized Spanish colonization for
Colonization eroding indigenous culture, customs,
Impact and traditions. Believed that Spanish
influence suppressed the Filipinos' true
identity and cultural heritage.
Writing and Wrote extensively about Philippine
Documentation culture, traditions, and history through
essays, novels, and articles. Advocated
for cultural reforms and education to
empower Filipinos.
Cultural Identity Emphasized the importance of
understanding and embracing Filipino showcasing the superiority of Spanish culture
cultural identity to foster national unity over the native customs of the Philippines,
and pride. Advocated for reforms to
reclaim and preserve indigenous
values and customs.
Antonio de Morga's View
Morga also recognized the sophistication of
pre-colonial Filipino society but often
compared it unfavorably to Spanish culture,
considering it as more primitive and in need of
European influence for advancement.
Morga, being a Spanish colonial official, saw
Spanish influence as a civilizing force,
bringing progress and enlightenment to the
Philippines. He downplayed the significance
of pre-colonial culture and often presented it
as inferior to Spanish civilization.
Morga's work, "Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas,"
was a historical account that documented
Filipino culture and society during the Spanish
colonization period. However, his perspective
was influenced by his role as a colonial
official, depicting Filipino culture from a
Eurocentric viewpoint.
Morga's focus was more inclined towards
considering Spanish influence as beneficial for
the Filipino people.
2. Analyze Rizal's idea as to how to rewrite Philippine History.

Jose Rizal, a pivotal figure in Philippine history, envisioned a transformative

approach to rewriting the country's historical narrative. His vision aimed not only to
revise historical texts but to reshape the Filipino identity and heritage. Rizal's
multifaceted strategy encompassed several crucial aspects:

Firstly, he emphasized celebrating the pre-colonial heritage of the Philippines.

Rizal advocated for acknowledging and cherishing the achievements and cultural
richness that existed before Spanish colonization. He believed that highlighting this
history would instill pride and identity among Filipinos, countering the negative
impacts of colonialism.

Additionally, Rizal sought to challenge biased colonial narratives that

undermined the accomplishments of indigenous Filipino society. His goal was to
present a more authentic view of history, shedding light on both positive contributions
and adverse impacts of colonial rule.

Education was a cornerstone of Rizal's strategy. He advocated for reforms in the

educational system to provide an accurate portrayal of Philippine history. Rizal
believed that this knowledge would empower the youth, fostering a sense of
nationalism and unity.

Furthermore, he stressed the preservation of indigenous traditions, languages, and

customs. Rizal saw these cultural elements as crucial in reclaiming Filipino identity
and heritage, fostering national unity and pride.

Rizal's vision extended beyond historical retelling; it aimed at promoting unity

and social progress. By revising the historical narrative to encompass a more inclusive
representation of Filipino experiences, he aimed to create a society transcending
regional, cultural, and ethnic differences.

In essence, Jose Rizal's approach to rewriting Philippine history was

comprehensive, aiming to restore the Filipino identity, challenge colonial narratives,
promote education, preserve cultural heritage, and foster national unity. His visionary
ideas laid the groundwork for subsequent movements seeking a more accurate,
inclusive, and empowering representation of Philippine history, leaving an enduring
legacy on the nation's consciousness.