Selected Chapters on Rizal’s El Filibusterismo
February 27, 2008
о ₪ Basilio ₪ о
It is almost time for Christmas Eve midnight mass when Basilio secretly makes his way to the forest previously owned by the Ibarra family. He visited his mother’s grave and reminisced what had happened in the last thirteen years of his life. Basilio was sent to study and was even sent to Ateneo to take up medicine through the help of Capitan Tiago. He is in his last year of studies and will be a physician in a couple of months. He plans to retire in his hometown and to marry his sweetheart Juliana.
Issues: Generosity, Second chances, love for studies, dedication towards work
“We see here a reversal of fortunes: the boy who used to wander the streets, dirty, unkempt and disdained by society, is now about to become a respected physician. I see it as Rizal’s way of showing that there is always hope and chances for people and for the country to achieve growth and development. It all lies on the extreme passion towards work and diligence in putting into heart every task a person have to accomplish. Basilio actually serve as a medium to make the readers realize that more work plus a little luck will always lead to a positive outcome. The country has yet to discover that the only way to success is through putting people’s hearts in the achievement of a sole purpose. There should be unity among Filipinos. All must be driven to work for the goal and be united to live out the dream of progress. The Filipinos, especially the youth, have all the potential to achieve whatever they want to achieve. They have the time and the capabilities. Filipinos are naturally patient and industrious which are good traits of a dedicated worker. Filipinos must seek success and strive for their personal growth and development. If all will work and become successful, it will create a domino effect leading to economic and social progress: the ultimate aims of Rizal. Educate Filipinos and they will surely be more capable and more progressive.”
о ₪ Simoun ₪ о
Simoun begins digging for the treasure buried thirteen years ago in the same forest Basilio was. Basilio announces his presence and acknowledges Simoun as the person who helped Basilio bury his mother, the latter however, points a revolver at Basilio. Fortunately for Basilio, Simoun does not pull the trigger even if he realizes that Basilio’s newfound knowledge jeopardizes the plans of Simoun. The two had a discussion between Science (or medicine) and Politics (or the aspiration to be an independent nation).and the ways to improve the Philippine system. Basilio advocates reliance on Spain especially since he believes Spanish can unite the people not only with the Government, but with other peoples in other islands. Simoun, on the other hand advocated a total transition which can be attained, as he believes, through a bloody revolution.
Issues: love for the country, hope, conflicting ideas, different approaches,
“Some people say that this chapter is one of the more powerful chapters of Jose Rizal’s El Filibusterismo. I certainly do agree. It somehow depicted thoroughly the idea that the there are two approaches that Filipinos can use to achieve growth and development: its either they stay as Spain’s colony or they set a bloody socio-political uprising. In one of Simoun’s rebuttal statements, he uttered the statement, “A people without character, and a nation without liberty.” Do we Filipinos really lack a culture that is uniquely ours? Or are we a confused blend of Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, American and other cultures? Then again, it does not necessarily mean we lack an identity, I guess we still have truly Filipino qualities. Elias, just like Basilio, was also for independence of the nation, but he did not support violent methods. Simoun is Machiavellian in the sense that he believes that the end justifies the means. Between the two, I choose to stand with the ideas of Simoun. You see, time had already passed and a not so much has really changed. The country is still in the midst of extreme oppression. Use of pro-life approaches never really worked. It is about time that someone rise up and lead the people to put an end to the problems of social injustices. Simoun was the one.”
о ₪ Merry Christmas ₪ о
The miracle that Juli expected did not happen — there was no money at the foot of the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. All that remained there were Juli’s prayers. As a result, Juli resigned herself to serving as Hermana Penchang’s maid to raise money for ransom after some bandits kidnapped Cabesang Tales, Tandang Selo’s son. Tandang Selo didn’t have any gifts to give to anyone. His granddaughter was going to become a maid and she didn’t even greet him "Merry Christmas." Women passing by the house notice that Selo is mute. Of course the bad news quickly spreads through the chismis or gossip network. Selo’s woes don’t end there. His son, Cabesang Tales, is still missing. With all these misfortunes, including his son’s land being unjustly taken away, it’s no wonder that Selo discovers he can no longer speak.
Issues: grieve misfortunes, sacrifice, strong irrational faith, hopelessness, love for family
“Christmas is supposed to be a time for people to celebrate and have fun. It is supposed to be a time for people to exchange gifts, family reunions, make salo- salo on Christmas Eve, and appreciate how much other people love us. Unfortunately, these are often undone by the people who had experienced grieve misfortunes over the year. Some people tend to condemn God for the miserable things that have had happened to them. Some, but a I guess only a few, rely predominantly on their faith as the only way to resolve the problems that they are encountering. Our family always prepares something for Christmas and it’s odd to think that we celebrate when in fact there are a lot of people who do not really have the comfort of a family and the joy of having something during the important celebration for the season. Tandang Selo, as one person who couldn’t take life’s catastrophes, is one of them. He lost his sons, some properties and now, he is about to lose her granddaughter as a sacrifice to take a little something back. Sigh. What would you do if all the things that matter to you slowly are taken away from you? What would you do when you are penniless, pitied, and alone as you watch the entire community celebrating Jesus’ birth? Well, if I were in his situation, I guess I would end up losing my mind (worse case scenario). I deeply value the things I care for and I couldn’t even imagine a time when I would be bound to leave all these things behind. I think I would bring a strong fight for these not to be away from me, even if it would mean sacrificing some things. I love my family, more than anything. I would do anything for them. “
о ₪ Pilates ₪ о
The town is abuzz with talk about the misfortunes of Selo and his family, and already a number of people are claiming they are not to blame. The alferez or lieutenant of the guardia civil said he was merely following orders when he confiscated the weapons of Cabesang Tales and it was not his fault if Tales was subsequently kidnapped. The person grabbing Tales’ land likewise said he was not the person to blame bcause he argued that if Tales remained at home (and not patrolled the land), he would not have been kidnapped. Hermana Penchang, Juli’s new mistress, said she does not feel responsible either for Juli’s circumstances. Instead, she blames Old Man Selo because he does not know how to pray (and neither did he teach Juli how to pray properly). Hence, Hermana Penchang took it upon herself to teach Juli; she also asked Juli to read the book Tandang Basiong Macunat, a late 1800s Tagalog narrative about how Indios should trust only in the friars and shun learning (because it leads to sin). It’s funny to read how Hermana Penchang appears scandalized when Juli does not pause at the "proper" words in the Hail Mary, or when Juli stresses the wrong syllable in some Latin prayers.
Cabesang Tales does show up in his house. He discovers that his dad no longer speaks, that his land is being taken away, that he is being evicted from his home, and that Juli is now a lowly maid.
Issues: Scapegoat, discrimination, lack of knowledge
“The chapter showcased the severity of situation experienced by the family of Tandang Selo. We all know for the fact that the people talk about their misfortunes, but the thing that makes it hard for them is the fact that no one really admits their involvement in such hideous acts. Do Filipinos force somebody to take the blame for them? At some point, I agree, but Filipinos for me are more of the ones abused and the ones who are the subject of the conflict of who’s who and who’s not. When I watched the ABS-CBN program NOYPI: Pinoy Ikaw ba ‘to?, I realized that Filipinos often take responsibility of things even if they are not really obliged to do such. We see a lot of beggars around being given food by generous passers, people who were entertained and guided when they asked someone the right direction to a certain place and people who are helped in making their assignments at Xavier Hall. I see that one of the important traits of the Filipinos is the consideration of social acceptance which is manifested on the way they help others. Filipinos wholeheartedly reach out to others even if they never know who they are helping. It somehow becomes socially unacceptable if one ignored an old lady asking him to accompany her cross the street. This inherent trait in the Philippine culture of not to scapegoat is often abused and misunderstood. Because of the lack of knowledge of some Filipinos, they are often cheated when it comes to business matters. You will not be surprised to see Filipinos filing a complaint against a foreign businessman for issuing a bouncing check, for signing an invalid contract and even for promising them he would help in business operation but not disclosing the fact that it will be done illegally. Poor Filipinos. I strongly support Rizal’s argument of educating Filipinos. I believe it is the only way for them to realize their full potentiality.”
о ₪ Wealth and Misery ₪ о
Simoun visits the house of Cabesang Tales located between the towns of San Diego and Tiani. Tales is impoverished, but Simoun brings food and other necessities, along with cases of jewelry. Simoun shows off his revolver or pistol to Tales. Soon, the jewelry buyers arrive: Capitan Basilio, Capitana Tika, Sinang (and her husband and child), and Hermana Penchang (who wants to buy a diamond ring for the Blessed Virgin at Antipolo). Simoun opens the two pieces of luggage filled with jewelries of different types, shapes and histories. Some of the jewelry include:
Necklace of Cleopatra
Rings found in the ruins of Carthage
Some treasures brought back by Hannibal after the Battle of Cannae
Ring of Sulla
Earrings found in the villa of Annius Mucius Papilinus in Pompeii
Sapphire from Ceylon, emeralds from Peru, ruby, turquoises from Persia, diamonds (black, rosy, green)
Ring of the Princess of Lamballe
Pendants to a lady-in-waiting of Marie Antoinette
Oriental mother-of-pearl
Others from the Golconda mines
None of the buyers were interested in the old, historical jewels, so Simoun brought out the modern ones. Simoun also wanted to buy something, so he asked Cabesang Tales if he had any jewelry for sale. Sinang reminds Tales about the locket given to Juli. Simoun immediately offered Five Hundred Pesos because that was the locket of his love, Maria Clara. Hermana Penchang reminds Tales that Juli chose to become a maid over selling that locket, so Tales decides to consult first with Juli. Tales goes out to meet his daughter, but along the way sees the friar and the new tenant of Tales’ land. Those insensitive two laugh at Tales when they see him. Tales felt as if some guy took his wife to a private room and laughed at him before entering the room. Tales does not go to see his daughter. Instead, he follows those two men.
Simoun orders his servants to proceed to Los Baños via the lake. He, on the other hand, decides to travel on land. Simoun is delighted to discover that the guardia civil have arrested Tandang Selo only to realize that this will anger Tales even more. It turns out that Tales murdered three people the previous evening: the friar, the new tenant, and his wife. It was a gruesome murder: their mouths were filled with soil, the wife’s neck was slashed, and the other two had been shot in the head. Beside the wife’s corpse was a note with Tales’ name finger-traced in blood. The chapter ends with a sarcastic assurance to the citizens of Calamba that they will not be blamed for the crime committed by Tales.
Issues: promises, vengeance, important values, cruelty
“Bloody Hell! - This was the thing I said after I read the chapter. Who would have thought that the chapter would end with such cruelty? How far will people go as they seek vengeance? Are they willing to commit crimes like murder just to secure to them the revenge they seek? The society will never forgive Tales for what he did but some part of me wanted to justify his decision to do such. I have really never been in a situation when I actually lost a lot so I really couldn’t empathize with him. But, considering how intense he valued his land and important properties, and even his family, which was all taken away from him, I think it is really worth avenging for. The irony is that Tales was in a situation with a very little emphasis on human dignity and justice. He had no choice. Maybe he may have even lost his mind. Tsk Tsk. “
Tags: El Filibusterismo
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Selected Chapters on Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere
о ₪ The Oppressed ₪ о
Elias looked for Capitan Pablo in the forest. He was taken to a cave where they talked about the plan of attack. Elias suggested to avoid the shredding of innocent blood and convinced the people urging for an attack to entrust their lives to Ibarra. Elias suggested that Ibarra will try to propose peaceful measures before they venture into their plan of bloody attack. After all, according to Elias, the unarmed always pay.
Issues: Plot to execute a plan of revolution: hopelessness, promotion of other people’s welfare, revenge
“The chapter actually talked about an important plot to execute a plan of revolution against the Spanish oppression. It depicted the struggle of the Filipinos to start a bloody uprising to secure freedom from injustices and to ultimately promote people’s human dignity. The story presented conflict as to the different motivations of the characters such as cravings for vengeance, and unbearable sufferings they have experienced. It showcased the hopelessness of the people and their courageous way of trying to resolve the problem… through a forceful revolution. It depicted the moral legacies of Rizal relating to love for the country, initiative, love for justice, will-power, self-sacrifice, and I guess the most important of all, self-control. The people then have had endured the brutalities of the colonizers and for that, I salute them. Their self-control, more manifested in their patience and courage not to give up, was so remarkable. Knowing that there was a plan to carry out an attack, it is nice to know that the Filipinos as portrayed in Rizal’s work were not really vulnerable and stupid. It’s up to us, the present Filipinos, to prove it and live by the challenge.”
о ₪ The Cockpit ₪ о
At the cockpit arena, Lucas approaches Bruno and Tarsilo, recruiting them to attack the town barracks. Lucas declares that aside from joining the attack organized by Ibarra against the barracks, they can exact their revenge on the members of the guardia civil who killed their father.
Issues: Gambling, greed, prestige, honor, power, sacrifice, vengeance
“This chapter made me realize that Filipinos are indeed very fond of gambling. In fact, today, there are a number of games-of-luck that Filipinos wholeheartedly patronize. Not to mention jueting, cockfighting, mahjong, lotto, bingo, tic-tac-toe, and many more. Who wouldn’t complain now that the price of lotto ticket went doubled? I have nothing against these things. For a fact, I know that Filipinos really wanted to earn fast and easy. The ironic thing is they spend whatever they have (or won) so fast that they are left with nothing for savings. They become stagnant, and relied so much with these games. They believe that it is more than just having money to spend; it also leads to having prestige, honor, and power. If a person won a 34 million lotto jackpot, he would instantly be the talk-of-the-town; others may even claim him as a long lost relative just to have a part on the winnings or have a balato. However, gambling changes a person. People who have tasted staying at the pedestal of richness and fame, tend to become addicted with the game and very eager to win, even if it would mean losing all his properties. People become so greedy. Others were forced to sacrifice, and “kumapit sa patalim”. Thus, they lose track of what are really important- like love, family and life of simplicity. For others, it may seem be true that it is more than just a game… it is life in itself. But life is more than just that. It is about reaching for the goals of genuine happiness and success by working for it; not on mere reliance on luck.”
о ₪ Two Ladies ₪ о
Doña Victorina and Don Tiburcio pass by the house of the alferez, as Doña Consolacion mocks and ridicules Doña Espadaña and her crippled husband. The two women start exchanging insults and almost get into a fight that is averted by the arrival of the alferez and Padre Salvi. To defend her honor, Doña Victorina asks Linares to challenge the alferez to a duel.
Issues: the Trying hard Filipino, Discrimination, Trying to belong, bragging about a person’s accomplishment, superiority
“The chapter was able to capture my attention by making me realize the fact that Filipinos indeed have embraced the western culture. People tried to relate to others by adopting the traditions not genuinely their own. Look at yourself and try to see how the culture of the foreign people has changed you. I can’t help but notice the transition of the Filipino dresses before and when the colonizers came in to the country. Before, it is okay for Filipinos to wear bahag, cover their bodies with tattoos, and perhaps wear tribal accessories. When the colonizers came and somehow imposed to do this and that, Filipinos [ironically] responded nicely. Women wore long shoulder-to-toe dresses, huge hats, and lesser accessories. Men wore long sleeves, and pants. These things I find funny because the country is a tropical one and there is no doubt that the clothes make them look inappropriate. Women end up carrying rattan-made fans just to relieve themselves from extreme heat. Haha. You see, the culture of the Filipinos is different from the culture of Spain and so as in other countries. Culture includes language, geographical stats, and of course, climate. Spanish people wore big dresses because the temperature in Europe is not as hot as it is here in the Philippines. Their houses are made of bricks to make their walls thick and protect them from intense cold. They have chimneys to serve as their way to raise body temperature back to normal when at their homes during winter. I don’t see the point why Filipinos have to embrace all these without question nor hesitation. Why do they have to wear long dresses? Why do they have to make house with walls so thick? Why do they dream of having their household fireplace? Do they consider themselves cool or superior when they have such? Sigh. Today, there is no room for a “trying-hard” Filipino here in the country. After all, these trying-to-belong and trying-to-have-the-latest are the ones who promote discrimination. They brag at things they don’t have and on the person their not. Let us not be like Doña Victorina. Filipinos are more than just copycats.”
о ₪ A Puzzle ₪ о
Ibarra wishes to inform Maria Clara that his excommunication is lifted, but upon arriving at her house, he sees Maria Clara with Linares. He is invited to come into the house, but he visits instead the site of the school building, asking the supervisor, Ñor Juan about its progress.
Issue: Jealousy, Hope, Love, Joy of freedom, forced marriage
“Who had known forced marriage existed (or is existing) here in the country? Well, I know. I have a friend whose parents set her arranged marriage. I totally disagree on the plan, in fact, as a whole on the parent’s intrusion to decide on the child’s future. I see it as a wrong way of showing love and concern. If I will be a parent someday (surely I will), I will leave my sons and daughters to decide on their own and make mistakes. It is from learning from their mistakes that they understand life’s realities. We are not defined on the wrong choices that we make but on the way we respond on these wrong decisions. Love is not about pushing them to what’s good for them. It is about making our loved ones feel that you stand by their side in every courses of action they take as they seek for happiness. Genuine love should never be broken by jealousy and selfish desires. It must remain strong despite the challenges it face. It must live with hope and trust. One must realize its importance as it stems from our own individual freedom. We may not realize it yet, but be are so fortunate that we are given freedom to do whatever we want. However, it should never be abused, but rather be used as a way to reach out to others, to consider other people’s welfare and to make sound decisions. Be a better citizen. Serve the community. Love the country. Live by what Rizal want Filipinos to be.”
о ₪ Spokesman of the Oppressed ₪ о
Elias meets Ibarra at the lakeside. He narrates the conversation he has had with Capitan Pablo. Elias says that, Ibarra, because of his education and position in society, can ask the Spanish government to implement radical reforms such as fewer privileges for religious corporations, security for a citizen and more respect for a man’s dignity. Ibarra objects, saying that such institutions as the priesthood, religious corporations, and the guardia civil, are necessary evils that must be tolerated by the society.
Issues: False hope, struggle, persuasion, love for others,
“The chapter showcased an opposing opinion of two important characters in the novels of Rizal. I like to believe that this is the most important chapter in Noli Me Tangere. It depicted contrary views on how the country can be able to attain progress. Is it by letting the colonizers lead us towards it but endure their unjust treatment? Or is it by aspiring for freedom and independence and relying on our own to God-knows-where-it-would-take-us? Despite the strong arguments of Ibarra, I tend to believe Elias. The Filipinos have had enough sufferings that it is about time top end it. The colonizers may lead us towards progress but where is the achievement in that, when we are not the ones who pioneered it? Isn’t it right that we stand on our own and claim what is rightfully ours? Isn’t it time to have our lands named after our own accounts and not on foreign people? Is it too much to demand justice and security of human dignity? We may have a lot of benefits from the colonizers but these never compensate the brutalities they give us. In fact, it such continues, assuming that I was there in those times, we will end up relying in them predominantly and somehow getting “immune” with the maltreatment they bestow upon us. What could be worse than having the history know the Filipinos to be vulnerable and so irrational? What could be worse than having Webster define Filipinos as the abused race, or the couldn’t-stand-on-its-own race? Sigh. I think this poses a challenge to the Filipinos even as of today. We must use our intellect to assess situations and fight for what we believe is right. Filipinos are not weaklings. We are patient but brave, and silent but marked by a burning passion to succeed. “
February 27, 2008
о ₪ Basilio ₪ о
It is almost time for Christmas Eve midnight mass when Basilio secretly makes his way to the forest previously owned by the Ibarra family. He visited his mother’s grave and reminisced what had happened in the last thirteen years of his life. Basilio was sent to study and was even sent to Ateneo to take up medicine through the help of Capitan Tiago. He is in his last year of studies and will be a physician in a couple of months. He plans to retire in his hometown and to marry his sweetheart Juliana.
Issues: Generosity, Second chances, love for studies, dedication towards work
“We see here a reversal of fortunes: the boy who used to wander the streets, dirty, unkempt and disdained by society, is now about to become a respected physician. I see it as Rizal’s way of showing that there is always hope and chances for people and for the country to achieve growth and development. It all lies on the extreme passion towards work and diligence in putting into heart every task a person have to accomplish. Basilio actually serve as a medium to make the readers realize that more work plus a little luck will always lead to a positive outcome. The country has yet to discover that the only way to success is through putting people’s hearts in the achievement of a sole purpose. There should be unity among Filipinos. All must be driven to work for the goal and be united to live out the dream of progress. The Filipinos, especially the youth, have all the potential to achieve whatever they want to achieve. They have the time and the capabilities. Filipinos are naturally patient and industrious which are good traits of a dedicated worker. Filipinos must seek success and strive for their personal growth and development. If all will work and become successful, it will create a domino effect leading to economic and social progress: the ultimate aims of Rizal. Educate Filipinos and they will surely be more capable and more progressive.”
о ₪ Simoun ₪ о
Simoun begins digging for the treasure buried thirteen years ago in the same forest Basilio was. Basilio announces his presence and acknowledges Simoun as the person who helped Basilio bury his mother, the latter however, points a revolver at Basilio. Fortunately for Basilio, Simoun does not pull the trigger even if he realizes that Basilio’s newfound knowledge jeopardizes the plans of Simoun. The two had a discussion between Science (or medicine) and Politics (or the aspiration to be an independent nation).and the ways to improve the Philippine system. Basilio advocates reliance on Spain especially since he believes Spanish can unite the people not only with the Government, but with other peoples in other islands. Simoun, on the other hand advocated a total transition which can be attained, as he believes, through a bloody revolution.
Issues: love for the country, hope, conflicting ideas, different approaches,
“Some people say that this chapter is one of the more powerful chapters of Jose Rizal’s El Filibusterismo. I certainly do agree. It somehow depicted thoroughly the idea that the there are two approaches that Filipinos can use to achieve growth and development: its either they stay as Spain’s colony or they set a bloody socio-political uprising. In one of Simoun’s rebuttal statements, he uttered the statement, “A people without character, and a nation without liberty.” Do we Filipinos really lack a culture that is uniquely ours? Or are we a confused blend of Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, American and other cultures? Then again, it does not necessarily mean we lack an identity, I guess we still have truly Filipino qualities. Elias, just like Basilio, was also for independence of the nation, but he did not support violent methods. Simoun is Machiavellian in the sense that he believes that the end justifies the means. Between the two, I choose to stand with the ideas of Simoun. You see, time had already passed and a not so much has really changed. The country is still in the midst of extreme oppression. Use of pro-life approaches never really worked. It is about time that someone rise up and lead the people to put an end to the problems of social injustices. Simoun was the one.”
о ₪ Merry Christmas ₪ о
The miracle that Juli expected did not happen — there was no money at the foot of the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. All that remained there were Juli’s prayers. As a result, Juli resigned herself to serving as Hermana Penchang’s maid to raise money for ransom after some bandits kidnapped Cabesang Tales, Tandang Selo’s son. Tandang Selo didn’t have any gifts to give to anyone. His granddaughter was going to become a maid and she didn’t even greet him "Merry Christmas." Women passing by the house notice that Selo is mute. Of course the bad news quickly spreads through the chismis or gossip network. Selo’s woes don’t end there. His son, Cabesang Tales, is still missing. With all these misfortunes, including his son’s land being unjustly taken away, it’s no wonder that Selo discovers he can no longer speak.
Issues: grieve misfortunes, sacrifice, strong irrational faith, hopelessness, love for family
“Christmas is supposed to be a time for people to celebrate and have fun. It is supposed to be a time for people to exchange gifts, family reunions, make salo- salo on Christmas Eve, and appreciate how much other people love us. Unfortunately, these are often undone by the people who had experienced grieve misfortunes over the year. Some people tend to condemn God for the miserable things that have had happened to them. Some, but a I guess only a few, rely predominantly on their faith as the only way to resolve the problems that they are encountering. Our family always prepares something for Christmas and it’s odd to think that we celebrate when in fact there are a lot of people who do not really have the comfort of a family and the joy of having something during the important celebration for the season. Tandang Selo, as one person who couldn’t take life’s catastrophes, is one of them. He lost his sons, some properties and now, he is about to lose her granddaughter as a sacrifice to take a little something back. Sigh. What would you do if all the things that matter to you slowly are taken away from you? What would you do when you are penniless, pitied, and alone as you watch the entire community celebrating Jesus’ birth? Well, if I were in his situation, I guess I would end up losing my mind (worse case scenario). I deeply value the things I care for and I couldn’t even imagine a time when I would be bound to leave all these things behind. I think I would bring a strong fight for these not to be away from me, even if it would mean sacrificing some things. I love my family, more than anything. I would do anything for them. “
о ₪ Pilates ₪ о
The town is abuzz with talk about the misfortunes of Selo and his family, and already a number of people are claiming they are not to blame. The alferez or lieutenant of the guardia civil said he was merely following orders when he confiscated the weapons of Cabesang Tales and it was not his fault if Tales was subsequently kidnapped. The person grabbing Tales’ land likewise said he was not the person to blame bcause he argued that if Tales remained at home (and not patrolled the land), he would not have been kidnapped. Hermana Penchang, Juli’s new mistress, said she does not feel responsible either for Juli’s circumstances. Instead, she blames Old Man Selo because he does not know how to pray (and neither did he teach Juli how to pray properly). Hence, Hermana Penchang took it upon herself to teach Juli; she also asked Juli to read the book Tandang Basiong Macunat, a late 1800s Tagalog narrative about how Indios should trust only in the friars and shun learning (because it leads to sin). It’s funny to read how Hermana Penchang appears scandalized when Juli does not pause at the "proper" words in the Hail Mary, or when Juli stresses the wrong syllable in some Latin prayers.
Cabesang Tales does show up in his house. He discovers that his dad no longer speaks, that his land is being taken away, that he is being evicted from his home, and that Juli is now a lowly maid.
Issues: Scapegoat, discrimination, lack of knowledge
“The chapter showcased the severity of situation experienced by the family of Tandang Selo. We all know for the fact that the people talk about their misfortunes, but the thing that makes it hard for them is the fact that no one really admits their involvement in such hideous acts. Do Filipinos force somebody to take the blame for them? At some point, I agree, but Filipinos for me are more of the ones abused and the ones who are the subject of the conflict of who’s who and who’s not. When I watched the ABS-CBN program NOYPI: Pinoy Ikaw ba ‘to?, I realized that Filipinos often take responsibility of things even if they are not really obliged to do such. We see a lot of beggars around being given food by generous passers, people who were entertained and guided when they asked someone the right direction to a certain place and people who are helped in making their assignments at Xavier Hall. I see that one of the important traits of the Filipinos is the consideration of social acceptance which is manifested on the way they help others. Filipinos wholeheartedly reach out to others even if they never know who they are helping. It somehow becomes socially unacceptable if one ignored an old lady asking him to accompany her cross the street. This inherent trait in the Philippine culture of not to scapegoat is often abused and misunderstood. Because of the lack of knowledge of some Filipinos, they are often cheated when it comes to business matters. You will not be surprised to see Filipinos filing a complaint against a foreign businessman for issuing a bouncing check, for signing an invalid contract and even for promising them he would help in business operation but not disclosing the fact that it will be done illegally. Poor Filipinos. I strongly support Rizal’s argument of educating Filipinos. I believe it is the only way for them to realize their full potentiality.”
о ₪ Wealth and Misery ₪ о
Simoun visits the house of Cabesang Tales located between the towns of San Diego and Tiani. Tales is impoverished, but Simoun brings food and other necessities, along with cases of jewelry. Simoun shows off his revolver or pistol to Tales. Soon, the jewelry buyers arrive: Capitan Basilio, Capitana Tika, Sinang (and her husband and child), and Hermana Penchang (who wants to buy a diamond ring for the Blessed Virgin at Antipolo). Simoun opens the two pieces of luggage filled with jewelries of different types, shapes and histories. Some of the jewelry include:
Necklace of Cleopatra
Rings found in the ruins of Carthage
Some treasures brought back by Hannibal after the Battle of Cannae
Ring of Sulla
Earrings found in the villa of Annius Mucius Papilinus in Pompeii
Sapphire from Ceylon, emeralds from Peru, ruby, turquoises from Persia, diamonds (black, rosy, green)
Ring of the Princess of Lamballe
Pendants to a lady-in-waiting of Marie Antoinette
Oriental mother-of-pearl
Others from the Golconda mines
None of the buyers were interested in the old, historical jewels, so Simoun brought out the modern ones. Simoun also wanted to buy something, so he asked Cabesang Tales if he had any jewelry for sale. Sinang reminds Tales about the locket given to Juli. Simoun immediately offered Five Hundred Pesos because that was the locket of his love, Maria Clara. Hermana Penchang reminds Tales that Juli chose to become a maid over selling that locket, so Tales decides to consult first with Juli. Tales goes out to meet his daughter, but along the way sees the friar and the new tenant of Tales’ land. Those insensitive two laugh at Tales when they see him. Tales felt as if some guy took his wife to a private room and laughed at him before entering the room. Tales does not go to see his daughter. Instead, he follows those two men.
Simoun orders his servants to proceed to Los Baños via the lake. He, on the other hand, decides to travel on land. Simoun is delighted to discover that the guardia civil have arrested Tandang Selo only to realize that this will anger Tales even more. It turns out that Tales murdered three people the previous evening: the friar, the new tenant, and his wife. It was a gruesome murder: their mouths were filled with soil, the wife’s neck was slashed, and the other two had been shot in the head. Beside the wife’s corpse was a note with Tales’ name finger-traced in blood. The chapter ends with a sarcastic assurance to the citizens of Calamba that they will not be blamed for the crime committed by Tales.
Issues: promises, vengeance, important values, cruelty
“Bloody Hell! - This was the thing I said after I read the chapter. Who would have thought that the chapter would end with such cruelty? How far will people go as they seek vengeance? Are they willing to commit crimes like murder just to secure to them the revenge they seek? The society will never forgive Tales for what he did but some part of me wanted to justify his decision to do such. I have really never been in a situation when I actually lost a lot so I really couldn’t empathize with him. But, considering how intense he valued his land and important properties, and even his family, which was all taken away from him, I think it is really worth avenging for. The irony is that Tales was in a situation with a very little emphasis on human dignity and justice. He had no choice. Maybe he may have even lost his mind. Tsk Tsk. “
Tags: El Filibusterismo
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Selected Chapters on Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere
о ₪ The Oppressed ₪ о
Elias looked for Capitan Pablo in the forest. He was taken to a cave where they talked about the plan of attack. Elias suggested to avoid the shredding of innocent blood and convinced the people urging for an attack to entrust their lives to Ibarra. Elias suggested that Ibarra will try to propose peaceful measures before they venture into their plan of bloody attack. After all, according to Elias, the unarmed always pay.
Issues: Plot to execute a plan of revolution: hopelessness, promotion of other people’s welfare, revenge
“The chapter actually talked about an important plot to execute a plan of revolution against the Spanish oppression. It depicted the struggle of the Filipinos to start a bloody uprising to secure freedom from injustices and to ultimately promote people’s human dignity. The story presented conflict as to the different motivations of the characters such as cravings for vengeance, and unbearable sufferings they have experienced. It showcased the hopelessness of the people and their courageous way of trying to resolve the problem… through a forceful revolution. It depicted the moral legacies of Rizal relating to love for the country, initiative, love for justice, will-power, self-sacrifice, and I guess the most important of all, self-control. The people then have had endured the brutalities of the colonizers and for that, I salute them. Their self-control, more manifested in their patience and courage not to give up, was so remarkable. Knowing that there was a plan to carry out an attack, it is nice to know that the Filipinos as portrayed in Rizal’s work were not really vulnerable and stupid. It’s up to us, the present Filipinos, to prove it and live by the challenge.”
о ₪ The Cockpit ₪ о
At the cockpit arena, Lucas approaches Bruno and Tarsilo, recruiting them to attack the town barracks. Lucas declares that aside from joining the attack organized by Ibarra against the barracks, they can exact their revenge on the members of the guardia civil who killed their father.
Issues: Gambling, greed, prestige, honor, power, sacrifice, vengeance
“This chapter made me realize that Filipinos are indeed very fond of gambling. In fact, today, there are a number of games-of-luck that Filipinos wholeheartedly patronize. Not to mention jueting, cockfighting, mahjong, lotto, bingo, tic-tac-toe, and many more. Who wouldn’t complain now that the price of lotto ticket went doubled? I have nothing against these things. For a fact, I know that Filipinos really wanted to earn fast and easy. The ironic thing is they spend whatever they have (or won) so fast that they are left with nothing for savings. They become stagnant, and relied so much with these games. They believe that it is more than just having money to spend; it also leads to having prestige, honor, and power. If a person won a 34 million lotto jackpot, he would instantly be the talk-of-the-town; others may even claim him as a long lost relative just to have a part on the winnings or have a balato. However, gambling changes a person. People who have tasted staying at the pedestal of richness and fame, tend to become addicted with the game and very eager to win, even if it would mean losing all his properties. People become so greedy. Others were forced to sacrifice, and “kumapit sa patalim”. Thus, they lose track of what are really important- like love, family and life of simplicity. For others, it may seem be true that it is more than just a game… it is life in itself. But life is more than just that. It is about reaching for the goals of genuine happiness and success by working for it; not on mere reliance on luck.”
о ₪ Two Ladies ₪ о
Doña Victorina and Don Tiburcio pass by the house of the alferez, as Doña Consolacion mocks and ridicules Doña Espadaña and her crippled husband. The two women start exchanging insults and almost get into a fight that is averted by the arrival of the alferez and Padre Salvi. To defend her honor, Doña Victorina asks Linares to challenge the alferez to a duel.
Issues: the Trying hard Filipino, Discrimination, Trying to belong, bragging about a person’s accomplishment, superiority
“The chapter was able to capture my attention by making me realize the fact that Filipinos indeed have embraced the western culture. People tried to relate to others by adopting the traditions not genuinely their own. Look at yourself and try to see how the culture of the foreign people has changed you. I can’t help but notice the transition of the Filipino dresses before and when the colonizers came in to the country. Before, it is okay for Filipinos to wear bahag, cover their bodies with tattoos, and perhaps wear tribal accessories. When the colonizers came and somehow imposed to do this and that, Filipinos [ironically] responded nicely. Women wore long shoulder-to-toe dresses, huge hats, and lesser accessories. Men wore long sleeves, and pants. These things I find funny because the country is a tropical one and there is no doubt that the clothes make them look inappropriate. Women end up carrying rattan-made fans just to relieve themselves from extreme heat. Haha. You see, the culture of the Filipinos is different from the culture of Spain and so as in other countries. Culture includes language, geographical stats, and of course, climate. Spanish people wore big dresses because the temperature in Europe is not as hot as it is here in the Philippines. Their houses are made of bricks to make their walls thick and protect them from intense cold. They have chimneys to serve as their way to raise body temperature back to normal when at their homes during winter. I don’t see the point why Filipinos have to embrace all these without question nor hesitation. Why do they have to wear long dresses? Why do they have to make house with walls so thick? Why do they dream of having their household fireplace? Do they consider themselves cool or superior when they have such? Sigh. Today, there is no room for a “trying-hard” Filipino here in the country. After all, these trying-to-belong and trying-to-have-the-latest are the ones who promote discrimination. They brag at things they don’t have and on the person their not. Let us not be like Doña Victorina. Filipinos are more than just copycats.”
о ₪ A Puzzle ₪ о
Ibarra wishes to inform Maria Clara that his excommunication is lifted, but upon arriving at her house, he sees Maria Clara with Linares. He is invited to come into the house, but he visits instead the site of the school building, asking the supervisor, Ñor Juan about its progress.
Issue: Jealousy, Hope, Love, Joy of freedom, forced marriage
“Who had known forced marriage existed (or is existing) here in the country? Well, I know. I have a friend whose parents set her arranged marriage. I totally disagree on the plan, in fact, as a whole on the parent’s intrusion to decide on the child’s future. I see it as a wrong way of showing love and concern. If I will be a parent someday (surely I will), I will leave my sons and daughters to decide on their own and make mistakes. It is from learning from their mistakes that they understand life’s realities. We are not defined on the wrong choices that we make but on the way we respond on these wrong decisions. Love is not about pushing them to what’s good for them. It is about making our loved ones feel that you stand by their side in every courses of action they take as they seek for happiness. Genuine love should never be broken by jealousy and selfish desires. It must remain strong despite the challenges it face. It must live with hope and trust. One must realize its importance as it stems from our own individual freedom. We may not realize it yet, but be are so fortunate that we are given freedom to do whatever we want. However, it should never be abused, but rather be used as a way to reach out to others, to consider other people’s welfare and to make sound decisions. Be a better citizen. Serve the community. Love the country. Live by what Rizal want Filipinos to be.”
о ₪ Spokesman of the Oppressed ₪ о
Elias meets Ibarra at the lakeside. He narrates the conversation he has had with Capitan Pablo. Elias says that, Ibarra, because of his education and position in society, can ask the Spanish government to implement radical reforms such as fewer privileges for religious corporations, security for a citizen and more respect for a man’s dignity. Ibarra objects, saying that such institutions as the priesthood, religious corporations, and the guardia civil, are necessary evils that must be tolerated by the society.
Issues: False hope, struggle, persuasion, love for others,
“The chapter showcased an opposing opinion of two important characters in the novels of Rizal. I like to believe that this is the most important chapter in Noli Me Tangere. It depicted contrary views on how the country can be able to attain progress. Is it by letting the colonizers lead us towards it but endure their unjust treatment? Or is it by aspiring for freedom and independence and relying on our own to God-knows-where-it-would-take-us? Despite the strong arguments of Ibarra, I tend to believe Elias. The Filipinos have had enough sufferings that it is about time top end it. The colonizers may lead us towards progress but where is the achievement in that, when we are not the ones who pioneered it? Isn’t it right that we stand on our own and claim what is rightfully ours? Isn’t it time to have our lands named after our own accounts and not on foreign people? Is it too much to demand justice and security of human dignity? We may have a lot of benefits from the colonizers but these never compensate the brutalities they give us. In fact, it such continues, assuming that I was there in those times, we will end up relying in them predominantly and somehow getting “immune” with the maltreatment they bestow upon us. What could be worse than having the history know the Filipinos to be vulnerable and so irrational? What could be worse than having Webster define Filipinos as the abused race, or the couldn’t-stand-on-its-own race? Sigh. I think this poses a challenge to the Filipinos even as of today. We must use our intellect to assess situations and fight for what we believe is right. Filipinos are not weaklings. We are patient but brave, and silent but marked by a burning passion to succeed. “
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