EL FILIBUSTERISMO (A LECTURE ON THE LIFE AND WORKS OF JOSE RIZAL)

Summary

In SS041, the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal are explored, focusing on his novel 'El Filibusterismo.' The narrative delves into the complex portrayal of priests, the educational system in the Philippines, and the rumblings of revolution. Key characters like Simon Ibarra, Basilio, and Isagani reflect societal issues and Rizal's views on revolution. The discussion also touches on the novel's publication history, its significance, and its impact on Philippine culture and nationalism.

Takeaways

• 📚 Dr. Jose Rizal's 'El Filibusterismo' is one of his two greatest novels, reflecting the social and political climate of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period.
• 🏛 The novel is dedicated to the three martyred priests of Cavite, whose execution was a significant event that influenced the title and themes of the book.
• 👨‍🏫 The portrayal of priests in the novel is diverse, showcasing both Spanish and Filipino priests with varying attitudes towards the Filipino people, including pro- and anti-Filipino stances.
• 🏫 The novel depicts the life of students at the University of Santo Tomas, highlighting the educational system and the students' dissatisfaction with Spanish rule.
• ⚔️ Rumors of a revolution are present in the novel, indicating a growing discontent among the masses and their desire for change, even before the formation of the Katipunan in 1892.
• 🏮 The role of the Chinese community is highlighted, showing how Chinese businessmen aided revolutionaries by smuggling arms, reflecting the support from various sectors of society.
• 📰 The character Ben Zayb represents the media, criticizing the newspapers of the time for being blind to the truth and not reporting on the abuses of the government and the church.
• 💔 Rizal's personal frustrations, particularly his unrequited love for Leonor Rivera, are mirrored in the novel through the character of Paulita and her wedding to Juanito Pelaez.
• 🔍 Rizal's view on revolution is complex; he suggests through the failed assassination plot that he does not believe revolution is the solution to societal problems.
• 👨‍🎓 The novel challenges the youth, as seen in Padre Florentino's challenge to the youth when Simone is dying, expressing Rizal's hope and belief in the potential of the younger generation.

Q & A

What is the significance of the title 'El Filibusterismo' in relation to the novel's content?

The title 'El Filibusterismo' is significant as it reflects the revolutionary sentiments and the activities of the characters within the novel, particularly the titular character, Simoun, who is a filibuster or revolutionary. It also alludes to the broader context of the Philippine society's growing unrest and the planning of a revolution against Spanish rule.

Who are the three martyred priests to whom Dr. Jose Rizal dedicated 'El Filibusterismo'?

Dr. Jose Rizal dedicated 'El Filibusterismo' to the three martyred priests of the Cavite Mutiny, who were executed for their alleged involvement in the uprising against Spanish colonial rule.

How does the novel 'El Filibusterismo' depict the different types of priests during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines?

The novel portrays a variety of priests, including Spanish and Filipino priests who were both pro- and anti-Filipino. It shows corrupt priests as well as those with liberal minds, highlighting the complex role of the clergy in the society of that era.

What role does the character Padre Gorentino play in 'El Filibusterismo', and who was he patterned after?

Padre Gorentino in the novel is a sympathetic figure who supports the Filipino cause. He is patterned after the real-life Father Leon Lopez, a priest known for his progressive views and support for the Filipino people.

How does 'El Filibusterismo' reflect the educational system and student life in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period?

The novel provides insights into the educational system through the experiences of Filipino students, particularly at the University of Santo Tomas. It shows their frustrations with the system and their growing nationalist sentiments.

What is the significance of the character Ben Zayb in 'El Filibusterismo'?

Ben Zayb represents the media or print media during Rizal's time. His character highlights the role of newspapers, which often turned a blind eye to the abuses of the government and the church, and the potential power of the press in shaping public opinion.

How does 'El Filibusterismo' portray the role of the Chinese community in the Philippines during the colonial period?

The novel shows the Chinese community as supportive of the revolutionary cause, with Chinese businessmen helping to smuggle arms for the revolutionaries, indicating their involvement in the resistance against Spanish rule.

What is the view of Dr. Jose Rizal on revolution as depicted in 'El Filibusterismo'?

Rizal, through the novel, suggests that he does not believe revolution is the solution to society's problems. This is evident in the failed assassination plot in Capitan Tiago's house, indicating his skepticism about the effectiveness of violent uprisings.

Who is Simon Ibarra in 'El Filibusterismo', and how does his character evolve from 'Noli Me Tangere'?

Simon Ibarra is believed to be the same character as Crisostomo Ibarra from 'Noli Me Tangere', who was thought to be dead. He returns to the Philippines as a wealthy jeweler, disguised as Simoun, seeking revenge for his sufferings. His character evolves from a reformer and educator to a rebel, resorting to subterfuge and violence.

What are some important facts about the writing and publication of 'El Filibusterismo'?

Dr. Jose Rizal began writing 'El Filibusterismo' in Calamba during his first homecoming in 1887. It was published in Ghent, Belgium, and the original manuscript was later acquired by the Philippine government. The novel was dedicated to the three martyred priests, and it was serialized by a Spanish newspaper, indicating its impact and reach.