05.2 - Rizal Exile, Trial, and Death (Part 2) | Life and Works of Rizal

Summary

The video script delves into the life and beliefs of Filipino national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, particularly his stance against revolution as expressed in his 'Rizal Manifesto.' It highlights Rizal's use of strong language like 'absurd' and 'criminal' to describe rebellion, suggesting he viewed it as dangerous and misguided. Despite this, the script reveals Rizal's desire for a prepared and educated Philippines to achieve independence. The narrative also poignantly describes Rizal's final moments, his interactions with family, and his execution by a Filipino firing squad under Spanish orders. It concludes with the irony of Rizal's unfulfilled last wishes and the enduring legacy he left behind, influencing the nation's perspective on freedom and identity.

Takeaways

• 📜 Rizal's Manifesto: The transcript discusses Rizal's opposition to the concept of revolution, as evidenced by his own words in the 'Rizal Manifesto'.
• 🔍 Rizal's Disapproval: Rizal used strong language such as 'absurd,' 'disastrous,' and 'criminal' to describe the revolution, indicating his disapproval.
• 🏛️ Desire for Independence: Despite his disapproval of the violent approach, Rizal did express a desire for the Philippines to become independent, but with proper preparation first.
• 📚 Education as Prerequisite: Rizal emphasized the importance of education for the Filipino people as a prerequisite for achieving independence and liberty.
• 💌 Last Letters: Rizal wrote his final letters to loved ones, including his close friend Ferdinand Blumentritt and his brother Paciano.
• 🚶‍♂️ Walk to Bagumbayan: The script describes Rizal's final walk to Bagumbayan, where he was executed, reflecting on places he passed and his life.
• 🔫 Firing Squad: Rizal faced a firing squad composed of Filipino soldiers under Spanish colonial command, highlighting the complex dynamics of colonial power.
• 🗣️ Final Requests: Rizal made specific requests for how he wanted to be executed, showing his courage and dignity in the face of death.
• 🕰️ Time of Death: The exact time of Rizal's death is noted as 7:03 a.m., marking a significant moment in Philippine history.
• 📌 Legacy and Burial: Rizal's body was not initially given a proper burial or returned to his family, but was later moved to a monument in his honor.
• 📚 Posthumous Works: Josephine Bracken, Rizal's wife, translated his last poem into Tagalog to inspire revolutionaries, showing the ongoing impact of his work.

Q & A

What is the main theme discussed in Renato Constantino's essay 'Veneration Without Understanding' regarding Rizal's views?

The essay discusses Rizal's opposition to the concept of revolution, as evidenced by his Manifesto where he used words like 'absurd,' 'disastrous,' and 'criminal' to describe the violence of the revolution.

What does the term 'Rizal Manifesto' refer to in the script?

The 'Rizal Manifesto' refers to a document or statement where Rizal expressed his disapproval of revolution, stating that he opposed it from the very beginning and considered it impossible.

According to Ambeth Ocampo, what was Rizal's stance on Philippine independence?

Ambeth Ocampo suggests that Rizal did desire independence for the Philippines but emphasized the need for preparation through education and development of a national personality before seeking independence.

What significant literary work did Rizal compose while in prison, as mentioned in the script?

While in prison, Rizal composed the poem 'Mi Ultimo Adios,' which was found hidden inside an alcohol stove given to him by his sister Trinidad during a visit.

Describe the emotional scene between Rizal and his mother during her visit before his execution.

The script describes a heart-wrenching moment where Rizal's mother, Teodora, and his sister Trinidad visited him. They wept and Rizal fell to his knees asking for forgiveness, but were not allowed to embrace each other by the Spanish guards.

What were Rizal's final requests before his execution?

Rizal requested to be shot without blindfold and facing the firing squad. When his request to be shot in the front was denied, he asked to be shot in the back, near the heart, instead of in the head.

How did Rizal maintain his composure during his walk to Bagumbayan for his execution?

Rizal remained calm, appreciating the beauty of the scenery and even sharing nostalgic memories with the priests accompanying him, showing his composure despite the circumstances.

What was the reaction of the crowd as Rizal was led to his execution?

The crowd had mixed reactions; some felt sympathy for Rizal, while others, particularly the Spanish, were impatient for his execution. There were also some who hoped for a last-minute rescue by revolutionaries.

Who composed the firing squad that executed Rizal, and what was significant about their composition?

The firing squad that executed Rizal was composed of Filipino soldiers, which was significant as it highlighted the irony of Filipinos being used to carry out the execution ordered by the Spanish colonial government.

What was the immediate aftermath of Rizal's execution as described in the script?

After Rizal was shot, a man approached and gave him a 'tiro de gracia' or mercy shot to the head to ensure his death. His body was not returned to his family nor given a proper burial by the Spanish, but was instead buried in an unmarked territory.

How did Rizal's wife, Josephine Bracken, honor his memory after his death?

Josephine Bracken honored Rizal's memory by translating his final poem into Tagalog and distributing it among revolutionaries to inspire them.