UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
Assignment #4
09/23/2023
1. What is the meaning of the novel Noli Me Tangere?
"Noli Me Tangere" is a novel written by the Filipino national hero, Jose Rizal. The title
"Noli Me Tangere" is Latin, and it translates to "Touch Me Not" or "Don't Touch Me" in English.
This phrase is a reference to a biblical passage, specifically to the Gospel of John 20:17 (King
James Version), in which Jesus tells Mary Magdalene not to touch him after his resurrection:
"Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father."
In the context of Rizal's novel, "Noli Me Tangere" carries symbolic and thematic
significance. It serves as a warning, a call for change, and a challenge to the oppressive Spanish
colonial rule in the Philippines during the 19th century. The novel is a social and political
commentary on the injustices and abuses suffered by the Filipino people under Spanish rule.
Rizal used the title to convey a message that Filipinos should not remain passive and subservient
to the colonial authorities but should instead strive for independence and social reform.
The novel "Noli Me Tangere" explores various themes such as nationalism, social
injustice, religion, love, and identity. It played a crucial role in igniting the Philippine Revolution
against Spanish colonization and is considered a seminal work in Philippine literature.
2. Who are the main characters in Noli Me Tangere?
"Noli Me Tangere" by Jose Rizal features several main characters who play significant roles in
the story. Some of the most prominent characters include:
Juan Crisóstomo Ibarra y Magsalin (Crisóstomo Ibarra): The protagonist of the novel,
Crisóstomo Ibarra is a young Filipino who returns to the Philippines after studying in Europe.
He is well-educated and represents the hope for reform and progress in the country. He is
also engaged to María Clara.
María Clara de los Santos y Alba: María Clara is the daughter of Kapitán Tiago and is
romantically involved with Crisóstomo Ibarra. She is portrayed as a symbol of purity and
innocence.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
Padre Dámaso: The Franciscan friar and parish priest of San Diego. He is one of the primary
antagonists in the novel and represents the corrupt and oppressive Spanish clergy. He also has
a personal grudge against Crisóstomo Ibarra's family.
Kapitán Tiago (Don Santiago de los Santos): A wealthy Filipino who is hospitable and
well-liked by the friars. He is also María Clara's father and plays a crucial role in the story.
Elías: Elías is a mysterious and noble-hearted Filipino who helps Crisóstomo Ibarra and is
deeply involved in the revolution against Spanish rule. He is a symbol of the oppressed
Filipino masses.
Sisa: Sisa is a poor and mentally unstable woman who represents the suffering and
oppression of the Filipino commoners. She is the mother of Basilio and Crispín.
Basilio and Crispín: Basilio and Crispín are Sisa's children. They are orphaned and become
central characters in the sequel to "Noli Me Tangere," which is called "El Filibusterismo."
Doña Consolación and Don Tiburcio de Espadaña: A comically dysfunctional married
couple, Doña Consolación is a domineering woman, while Don Tiburcio is her spineless
husband.
Don Rafael Ibarra: Crisóstomo Ibarra's father, who had a tragic fate that serves as a catalyst
for the events in the novel.
Tía Isabel (Isabelo): Tía Isabel is a relative of Kapitán Tiago, and she is often seen as a
comic character in the story.
These are some of the key characters in "Noli Me Tangere." The novel is rich in character
development and explores various aspects of Philippine society during the Spanish colonial
period through the interactions and experiences of these characters
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
3. What is the most tragic story in the novel?
The most tragic story in "Noli Me Tangere" centers around the character of Maria Clara.
Her tragic fate is characterized by her entrapment in a world of deceit, betrayal, and oppressive
forces. Maria Clara is the symbol of purity and innocence in the novel, yet she becomes a tragic
figure as she is torn between her loyalty to her lover, Crisóstomo Ibarra, and her familial duty to
her father, Kapitán Tiago. She is forced into a loveless marriage with another man, Linares, due
to the manipulative schemes of the friars. In the end, she chooses to take her own life by jumping
into the convent's river, a harrowing act that underscores the immense suffering and
powerlessness experienced by many Filipinos under Spanish colonial rule. Maria Clara's tragic
story serves as a poignant illustration of the devastating impact of oppression and social injustice
on individual lives in the novel.
4. What is the meaning, purpose and message of the published novel Noli Me Tangere?
Meaning: "Noli Me Tangere," Latin for "Touch Me Not," serves as a powerful critique of the
Spanish colonial regime in the Philippines during the late 19th century. Through its characters
and plot, it unveils the social injustices, abuses, and corruption perpetuated by both the Spanish
authorities and the clergy. The novel also explores themes of love, identity, and national
awakening, all within the context of a society grappling with colonial oppression.
Purpose: The primary purpose of the novel is to awaken the Filipino people to the harsh realities
of their colonial existence and to inspire them to seek social reform and national liberation. It
serves as a call to action, urging Filipinos to rise against their oppressors and work towards a
better future.
Message: The novel's central message is the need for Filipinos to assert their identity, dignity,
and rights in the face of colonial domination. It advocates for education and enlightenment as
tools for achieving social change. Additionally, it highlights the importance of unity and
collective action in the pursuit of justice and national sovereignty. "Noli Me Tangere" is a
catalyst for the Philippine Revolution, sparking a renewed sense of pride, resistance, and
determination among the Filipino people. It remains a timeless work that champions the ideals of
freedom, justice, and the pursuit of a better society.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
5. What were the reasons Rizal decided to tour in Europe?
Reasons for Rizal's European Tour:
Jose Rizal toured Europe to gain a higher education, broaden his horizons, and immerse
himself in Enlightenment and liberal ideas. He aimed to understand European society, culture,
and politics to better advocate for social reforms and the rights of Filipinos back in the
Philippines.
6. What did Rizal’s reasons and do in his first homecoming in 1887?
Rizal's First Homecoming in 1887:
During his first homecoming in 1887, Rizal founded the La Liga Filipina, an organization
focused on advocating for peaceful reforms and uniting Filipinos. His goal was to alleviate the
suffering of the Filipino people under Spanish rule by championing the cause of social justice
and exposing the abuses of the Spanish authorities. However, his efforts led to his arrest and
exile to Dapitan.
7. What happened to Rizal during his trip to Hong Kong and Macao?
Rizal's Trip to Hong Kong and Macao:
During his trip to Hong Kong and later to Macao, Rizal continued his advocacy for
Filipino reforms and independence from Spanish rule. He established the La Solidaridad
newspaper, providing a platform for the Filipino reform movement in Europe. Rizal's writings
and activities in Hong Kong and Macao contributed significantly to the dissemination of
reformist ideas and the mobilization of Filipinos living abroad in support of their homeland's
liberation.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
Title: Reflection Paper on
"Rizal’s Grand Tour in Europe with Viola (1887)"
Rizal's Grand Tour in Europe with Maximo Viola in 1887 is a significant episode
in the life of Jose Rizal, the Philippines' national hero. This journey allowed Rizal to embark on a
transformative experience that would shape his intellectual, social, and political outlook. One of
the most striking aspects of Rizal's European tour is his unwavering commitment to education
and enlightenment. He recognized that knowledge was a potent tool for social change and
liberation, and he spared no effort in pursuing higher education in Europe. This dedication to
learning was not solely for personal advancement but also for the benefit of his homeland, the
Philippines.
Rizal's tour also exposed him to the vibrant intellectual and cultural climate of Europe
during the late 19th century. He engaged with Enlightenment and liberal ideas, which deeply
influenced his thinking. He was able to visit prestigious libraries, museums, and universities,
which broadened his understanding of history, politics, and the arts. This exposure not only
enriched his own intellectual development but also laid the foundation for the reformist and
revolutionary ideas he would later advocate. Traveling with Maximo Viola, a supportive and
like-minded companion, made the journey even more meaningful. Their shared passion for
education and reform created a synergy that fueled Rizal's dedication to his mission. Viola's
financial support allowed Rizal to pursue his studies and literary work without financial
constraints.
Furthermore, Rizal's European tour marked the genesis of his two most significant
literary works: "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo." These novels became powerful
instruments of change, awakening the Filipino people to the injustices they suffered under
Spanish colonial rule and inspiring them to seek social reforms and national identity. In
conclusion, Rizal's Grand Tour in Europe with Viola was not merely a leisurely voyage but a
purposeful and transformative journey. It was a period of profound intellectual growth, cultural
exposure, and the incubation of ideas that would later propel him into the forefront of the
Philippine Revolution. This tour exemplifies the power of education, enlightenment, and
unwavering dedication to a cause, and it serves as a testament to Rizal's indomitable spirit and
his commitment to freeing his homeland from oppression.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
Title: Reflection Paper on
"Rizal’s first homecoming (1887-1888)"
Jose Rizal's first homecoming to the Philippines in 1887-1888 was a significant and
pivotal period in his life as well as in the history of the Philippines. This homecoming marked
the beginning of Rizal's active involvement in the quest for social reform and the realization of
his role as a catalyst for change. Rizal's return to the Philippines was motivated by a strong
desire to see firsthand the conditions of his countrymen under Spanish colonial rule. His
observations during this time deepened his understanding of the injustices and abuses inflicted
upon the Filipino people. This firsthand experience fueled his passion for reform and intensified
his commitment to bringing about positive change.
One of the most important contributions of Rizal during his first homecoming was the
founding of the La Liga Filipina, an organization dedicated to advocating for peaceful reforms
and uniting Filipinos in their struggle for justice and dignity. The Liga aimed to address issues
such as equal rights, improved education, and representation for Filipinos in the Spanish
government. Unfortunately, Rizal's efforts were met with suspicion by Spanish authorities,
leading to his arrest and exile to Dapitan. Rizal's time in Dapitan, though marked by
confinement, was not wasted. He used this period to engage in various activities that benefited
the local community. He established a school, engaged in scientific research, and provided
medical services to the people of Dapitan. This demonstrated his unwavering commitment to
education and the betterment of society, even in the face of adversity.
In reflection, Rizal's first homecoming was a testament to his courage and determination.
It showcased his willingness to put himself at great personal risk for the sake of his countrymen
and their future. It marked the beginning of his journey as a national hero and a catalyst for
change, and it exemplified his commitment to peaceful reform, education, and the pursuit of
justice. Rizal's actions during this period continue to inspire generations of Filipinos to strive for
a just and enlightened society.
UNIVERSITY OF CALOOCAN CITY
College of Business and Accountancy
Prepared by: LAGRIMAS, VENESSE B. - BSA 2B
Title: Reflection Paper on
"Rizal’s 2nd sojourn in Hong Kong and Macao (1888)"
Jose Rizal's second sojourn in Hong Kong and Macao in 1888 was a crucial chapter in his
life and his ongoing struggle for the liberation of the Philippines from Spanish colonial rule. This
period marked his dedication to advocating for reforms and his unwavering commitment to the
cause of Filipino independence. During this time in exile, Rizal continued to be a beacon of hope
and inspiration for his fellow Filipinos. He established the ‘La Solidaridad’, a newspaper that
served as a platform for Filipino reformists in Europe to communicate their ideas and aspirations
to the people in the Philippines. Through his writings and editorials, Rizal aimed to awaken the
Filipino consciousness and galvanize them into action.
Moreover, Rizal used this opportunity to establish connections with other like-minded
individuals, both Filipino exiles and foreign sympathizers, who supported the Filipino cause. His
networking efforts helped build international support for the Filipino reform movement and
increased awareness of the Philippines' plight on the global stage. Rizal's time in Hong Kong and
Macao showcased his resilience and unwavering dedication to the principles of justice, freedom,
and the right of the Filipino people to self-determination. Despite being in exile and far from his
homeland, he continued to be the voice of reason and enlightenment, advocating for peaceful
reforms while preparing the groundwork for more significant actions in the future.
In retrospect, Rizal's second sojourn in Hong Kong and Macao demonstrates his strategic
thinking, his ability to mobilize support for the Filipino cause on a broader scale, and his
willingness to endure personal sacrifices for the greater good. This period was not just a phase of
exile; it was a continuation of his lifelong commitment to the betterment of the Philippines and
its people. Rizal's actions during this time continue to inspire a spirit of patriotism, activism, and
dedication to social justice among Filipinos today.