Christian Garin

CS301P

Rizal's Life and Works

Instructions

Directions:  Read the items carefully and provide an argument or stand for each.

1. In no more than three (3) sentences, answer the following questions:

a. Why did the Catholic Church actively oppose the passing of the Rizal Bill?

Because of its anti-critical elements, the Catholic Church actively opposes the passage of the Rizal Bill.
The bill was controversial because it included a mandatory reading of Rizal's writings, which they
claimed insulted Catholic dogmas. Furthermore, the Church intended to put an end to a dark period in
Philippine history in which its priests were more concerned with temporal power than with eternal life
and Christ's teachings.

b. What provision from the Rizal Bill allowed the government to approve it that answers
the arguments provided by the Catholic Church?

The restrictions imposed by the Catholic Church on the Rizal bill enabled the government to approve it
in response to the church's arguments. Furthermore, if the bill is passed, Catholic schools have
threatened to close in protest. Recto quickly countered that if this occurred, schools would be
nationalized, which the church did not want.

c. Did the Church's views on the study of Jose Rizal's life and works changed over the
years? Why or why not?

I believe the Church's perspectives on Rizal's life and work have evolved over time, but the values for
which Rizal fought cannot be realized by spreading lies and exaggerations about a Philippine institution
that plays an important role in Filipinos' lives. The issue is not just the state of Catholicism in the
Philippines or the rise or fall of Rizal's fame. It is also about having a truer, more complete picture of
ourselves as a nation, our institutions, and our heroes; without this, we will be unaware of our nation's
strengths and weaknesses.
 2. In no more than three (3) sentences, answer the following questions:

a. What is the Rizal Law all about?

Republic Act 1425 is the basis for the introduction of the Rizal course as a prerequisite for all students
enrolled in various colleges and universities. At a time when the country's identity is fading, this law
encourages Filipinos to develop a stronger sense of nationalism. Rizal Law instills a sense of patriotism in
our hearts and minds, as well as teaches us lessons from all of our history's events.

b. Why do we need to study the Rizal Law?

We must study Rizal Law because it is a required subject for all college students under Republic Act
1425. Aside from that, learning about Rizal may inspire students to rededicate their lives to the
libertarian and nationalist values for which our heroes fought and died. Furthermore, by studying Rizal's
life, works, and writings, we can honor our national hero for devoting his life and efforts to developing
the Filipino character and obtaining an inspiring source of patriotism.

c. What can you benefit from studying Jose Rizal's life and works?

By studying Rizal's Life and Works, I hope to gain a better understanding of the significance of Rizal's
principles and teachings in light of current societal conditions and events. It may also inspire students to
apply such values to current societal and personal issues. Finally, to gain a better appreciation and
understanding of everything Rizal fought and died for.

3. Why did Rizal consider Cervantes "the best writer of art and virtue" in his literary piece, "The
Council of the Gods (El Consejo del los Dioses)?"

El Consejo de los Dioses (The Council of Gods) was Rizal's allegorical drama. According to the judges,
who were all Spaniards, Rizal's work won first prize for its literary brilliance. It was a Spanish-language
play that was first published in Manila by the Liseo Artistico Literario de Manila in 1880, and then by the
La Soledaridad in 1883.

4. What drove the Filipinos to actively pursue Rizal's literary works in their quest for national
identity?

Our culture and history compelled Filipinos to actively pursue Rizal's literary works in their search for
national identity. Rizal has provided direction and demonstrated what is important as Filipinos strive to
discover themselves and look to other countries for assistance. As demonstrated by the struggle with
the Spaniards, Filipinos must band together and work together to defeat a common foe.