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Rizals Essays Poems and Other Literary Works
Rizals Essays Poems and Other Literary Works
Presented by:
CORREA, Samantha R.
TRINIDAD, Jomelyn B.
Presented to:
9 December 2023
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 1
OUTLINE & TASK DISTRIBUTION
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 2
(To the Young Women of Malolos)
● Rizal's Letters (composed of
correspondence to Father Pablo
Pastells, his brother Paciano, and
other activists)
Poems (6)
● "Farewell to 1883"
● "Por la Educación Recibe Lustre la
Patria" (Through Education Is the
Nation Glorified)
● "Sa Aking mga Kabata" (To My
Fellow Youth)
● "Mi último adiós" (My Last
Farewell)
● "Goodbye to Leonor"
Plays (4)
● El Consejo de los Dioses (The
Council of the Gods)
● Junto Al Pasig (Along the Pasig)
● San Euistaquio, Mártyr (Saint
Eustache, the martyr)
● Por Telefono (By Phone)
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 3
ARTICLES AND ESSAYS
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 4
○ It highlights concerns about the country's administration, attributing its issues
to a variety of factors, including the Colonial Ministry, the Captain General,
and the influence of different factions.
○ The author criticizes the lack of understanding and engagement by those in
power with the actual conditions and needs of the Philippines.
○ The tone is satirical and critical, exposing the perceived flaws in the colonial
government.
● The key aspect of the literary work lies in its critique of the colonial government
structure, particularly the roles of the Colonial Ministry and the Captain General.
○ It emphasizes the lack of qualifications, understanding, and responsibility in
the individuals occupying high positions of power in the Philippines.
○ The argument centers on the inherent problems in the governance system,
attributing the issues to the military-centric approach and political
maneuvering.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 5
"A La Defensa" (To La Defensa)
● A La Defensa (To La Defensa) This was in response to the anti-Filipino writing by
Patricio de la Escosura published by La Defensa on March 30, 1889 issue. Written on
April 30, 1889, Rizal's article refuted the views of Escosura, calling the readers'
attention to the insidious influences of the friars to the country.
● This was in response to the anti-Filipino writing by Patricio de la Escosura published
by La Defensa on March 30, 1889 issue.
● Written on April 30, 1889, Rizal’s article refuted the views of Escosura, calling the
readers’ attention to the insidious influences of the friars to the country.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 6
● Rizal's critique of the Spanish-administered education system in the Philippines is
grounded in several key observations. He highlights the inadequacy of the mandated
medium of instruction—Spanish—stating that it was not well understood by the
native population. The physical conditions of town schools, with limited access,
makeshift structures, and insufficient facilities, contribute to an environment that does
not foster a desire for learning.
● The curriculum's narrow focus on the basics (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic) and the
inclusion of gender-specific subjects for girls further restrict the educational
opportunities. Rizal criticizes the emphasis on rote memorization, the lack of practical
skills development, and the separation of boys and girls in the educational process.
● The essential part of Rizal's critique lies in his recommendations for reform. He
suggests the use of the native language for instruction, addressing the communication
barrier between teachers and students. Rizal also advocates for compulsory
elementary education in Philippine laws, emphasizing the importance of expanding
educational access and ensuring a broader curriculum that includes practical skills.
○ In this essay, Rizal exposed the depressed conditions of the town schools in
the Philippines, in terms of physical conditions, curriculum, methods and
principles of teaching
● Rizal's recommendations continue to have implications for the current education
system in the Philippines. The use of the native language for instruction has been
recognized as crucial in promoting effective learning. While the education system has
evolved, issues of accessibility, infrastructure, and curriculum limitations persist.
Rizal's call for compulsory elementary education remains relevant, reflecting the
ongoing need for policies that ensure widespread access to quality education and a
curriculum that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 7
traditional Tagalog poetry in the 19th century. His narrative poem, Florante at
Laura, reflects the complexities of Filipino society and tyranny.
○ The shift to prose occurred with Pedro Paterno's Ninay, the first Filipino novel
written in Spanish. Jose Rizal, the national hero, chose the realistic novel as a
medium, using Spanish to challenge the oppressors directly. Rizal's Noli Me
Tangere and El Filibusterismo became powerful critiques of corruption and
oppression, influencing revolutionary sentiments.
● An essential part of this literary evolution is the role of native writers and translators
in preserving and adapting traditional forms. Gaspar Aquino de Belen's Mahal Na
Pasion ni Jesu Christo, a Tagalog poem, marked the intersection of native expression
and the influence of Christianity. Balagtas, caught between two cultures, contributed
Florante at Laura, serving as a bridge between the native and colonial/classical
traditions.
○ Rizal's novels became essential for their realistic portrayal of societal issues
and the call for reforms. The novels ignited revolutionary fervor, prompting a
violent response to oppression. The prominence of native languages in
revolutionary literature, as seen in Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Jacinto's
works, reflects the commitment to communicate in the language of the people.
● The dominance of Rizal's figure in Philippine literature signifies the lasting impact of
his ideas on education, human dignity, and national identity. The decline of Spanish
and the rise of nativism in the early 20th century contributed to a renaissance of
literature in native languages. The acknowledgment of indigenous languages and
literature remains a significant aspect of Philippine cultural identity.
○ The themes of oppression, corruption, and the quest for societal improvement
depicted in historical literary works have enduring relevance. The call for
reforms and social justice continues to resonate in contemporary Philippine
literature, reflecting the ongoing struggle for human rights and equality. The
rich tapestry of Philippine literature serves as a repository of cultural memory
and a source of inspiration for navigating the challenges of the present day.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 8
for the organization. Yet, despite Rizal's absence, the league was reorganized during
his exile, with Domingo Franco and Andrés Bonifacio playing crucial roles.
● The essential part of La Liga Filipina lies in its vision to mobilize the Filipino people
actively in the pursuit of reforms. It was designed as a platform for mutual support,
education, and financial assistance. The league symbolized the collective aspirations
of Filipinos to address social issues and advocate for their rights.
○ The dissolution of La Liga, triggered by the arrest of Rizal and internal
leadership conflicts, led to a significant development. The split within the
membership resulted in two groups: the conservatives formed the Cuerpo de
Compromisarios, pledging continued support for La Solidaridad, while the
radicals, led by Bonifacio, shifted focus to a new secret society—the
Katipunan.
● The history of La Liga Filipina reflects the resilience and determination of Filipinos to
organize and fight for their rights against oppressive regimes. The league's
transformation into the Katipunan, a more radical and militant group, suggests the
evolution of strategies in the pursuit of national independence.
○ In the present context, the legacy of La Liga underscores the importance of
unity and collective action in addressing societal issues. The spirit of mutual
aid and self-help resonates in contemporary movements advocating for social
justice, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for the fulfillment of the Filipino
people's aspirations for a just and equitable society. The historical transition
from La Liga to the Katipunan also serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature
of resistance movements and the need for adaptability in the face of evolving
challenges.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 9
you dishonor and whose merits you cheapen? How do I find you?
Arrogant to the poor and fawning to those who are not afraid of you!”
○ Augustine, in the fiction, told Rodriguez that he (Augustine) was
commissioned by God to tell him (Rodriguez) of his stupidity and his penance
on earth that he (Rodriguez) shall continue to write more stupidity so that all
men may laugh at him.
■ “There is hardly any difference—empty heads and bloated stomachs!
No wonder up there, they always tease me because of you all,
particularly of you.”
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 10
● "Una Profanacion" (A Desecration/A Profanation)
● "Verdades Nuevas" (New Facts/New Truths)
● "Crueldad" (Cruelty)
● "Diferencias" (Differences)
● "Inconsequencias" (Inconsequences)
● "Llanto Y Risas" (Tears and Laughter)
● "Ingratitudes" (Ingratitude)
● "Cosas de Filipinas" (Things About the Philippines)
● "Sobre La Nueva Ortografia De La Lengua Tagala" (On The New Orthography of The
Tagalog Language)
● "A La Nacion Espanola" (To the Spanish Nation)
● "Defensa Del Noli" (Reply to Barrantes' Criticism of the Noli Me Tangere)
● "Nameless"
● "Let Us be Just"
● "Philippine Affairs"
● "More on the Negros Affair"
● "Cowardly Revenge"
● "A Reply to Mr. Isabelo de los Reyes' Las Luchas de Nuestros Dias"
● "How the Philippines is Governed"
● "On the Calamba Incidents"
● "Executives of the town of Calamba"
● "La Mano Roja" (The Red Hand)
● "Pobres Frailes" (Poor Friars)
● "By-laws of the Association of Dapitan Farmers"
● "Date for My Defense"
● "Additions to My Defense"
● "Notes on Melanesia, Malaysia, and Polynesia"
● "Estado de religiosidad de los pueblos en Filipinas" (The Religiosity of the Filipino
People)
● "Colonisation Du British North Borneo, Par De Familles De Iles Philippines"
(Colonization Of British North Borneo By Families From The Philippine Islands)
● "Proyecto De Colonization Del British North Borneo Por Los Filipinos" (Project Of
The Colonization Of British North Borneo By The Filipinos)
HISTORICAL COMMENTARIES
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 11
○ In response to colonial abuses, Filipinos became aware to defend their national
identity and resist oppression.
○ Rizal criticized the ruling class because of inequality, injustice, and corruption.
○ Rizal encouraged Filipinos to address social and political issues through
reforms.
○ Rizal questioned the uncertain future of the Philippines, raising question about
whether it will remain a Spanish colony, gain autonomy, or seel independence.
○ Rizal emphasized the importance of national unity and solidarity among
Filipinos to preserve their national identity.
○ Rizal warned against the dangers of tyrannical rule and the potential for
resistance from the people.
○ Rizal called for a government that respects the rights of citizens and works
towards the common good.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 12
● Rizal wrote this to provide insights into the changes and challenges faced by Filipinos
during December 1872 in Manila.
● First, it is not a political treatise, as most Rizal manuscripts are wont to be, and was
therefore kept below the radar. Second, it was called a rough draft and thus it
remained in the eyes of publishers as work unfinished or in progress. Finally, it was
misidentified in a volume classified as political and historical (Flores, 2015).
● At the time, assuming he wrote it in 1872, he was then an “externe” at Ateneo. That
year, Burgos, Gomez and Zamora were executed by garrote in Bagumbayan.
● Key Points:
○ Rizal described the decline in the liveliness of festivities and a lack of
spontaneous gaiety during December, where it usually had pre-Christmas
masses, music, orchestras, dinners, and banquets.
○ Despite outward celebrations, the people of Manila seem to carry an inner
sadness and mourning, possibly connected to political events involving
governor-general, military, and friars.
○ Instances of violence and repression during the period, with mentions of house
searches and persecution of individuals subscribing to European periodicals.
○ Illustrates the atmosphere of fear and censorship, where certain names and
pictures were taboo.
○ Narrates instances where accusations of being a filibuster could lead to arrests
and exile without due process.
○ Issues a cautionary note to readers, advising those who prefer a peaceful
existence to avoid uncovering the mysteries and to live circumspectly.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 13
Europeans through cultural understanding.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 14
○ In the second of five letters Rizal wrote from his Dapitan exile to his former
teacher, he makes an impassioned defense of the small or modest cause.
Pastells had chided Rizal for wasting his talents (on reformist and separatist
initiatives).
○ Rizal replies: “It is very possible that there may be better ones than those I
have embraced, but my cause is good and this is enough for me. Others
undoubtedly will yield more profit, more renown, more honors, more glories,
but the cane, on being born in this land, is for the purpose of supporting nipa
huts and not the heavy bulk of the buildings of Europe … But He who has
arranged it thus sees what the future brings, does not err in any of His acts, and
knows very well for what use are even the smallest things.”
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 15
the capabilities of Filipinos.
○ Political implications: The speech subtly critiques the Spanish colonial
system and calls for reforms.
○ Timeless message: The speech's themes of unity, solidarity, dedication, and
self-belief remain relevant for Filipinos today.
● Implications for the current situation
○ Unity and solidarity: In the face of contemporary challenges, Rizal's call for
unity and solidarity remains crucial.
○ Education and empowerment: Rizal's emphasis on education and
preparation resonates with the need for Filipinos to continuously strive for
knowledge and self-improvement.
○ National identity: The speech encourages Filipinos to celebrate their heritage
and maintain a strong sense of national identity in today's globalized world.
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 16
● Implications for the current situation
○ Critique of Authoritarianism
○ Importance of Civic Engagement
○ Struggle for Equality
POEMS
"Farewell to 1883"
● "Farewell to 1883" is a speech written by Jose Rizal on December 31, 1883, reflecting
on the past year and looking forward to the future.
● Key Points
○ Personal reflections: Rizal reviews his personal experiences in 1883,
including his studies in Madrid, his travels to Europe, and his interactions with
his family and friends.
○ Social and political commentary: Rizal offers thoughtful observations on the
state of Philippine society under Spanish colonial rule.
○ Vision for the future: Rizal expresses hope and optimism for the future of the
Philippines.
● Implications for the current situation
○ Continuing struggle for social justice
○ Importance of education and enlightenment
○ Aspirations for national freedom and self-determination
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 17
Philippine national hero Jose Rizal in Tagalog. Though its authorship and exact date
of composition are debated, it is considered one of the most significant works in
Philippine literature.
● Key Points
○ "Ang hindi magmahal sa kanyang salita / Mahigit sa hayop at malansang isda"
○ "Kung sa bayan ng bansa'y magtanggol / Ang kabataan ang siyang lulupig"
○ "Ang wika ng bayan ay kaluluwa / Ng isang bansang Malaya"
● Implications for the current situation
○ Continuing struggle for national identity: Despite gaining independence
from Spain and the United States, the Philippines continues to grapple with
issues of cultural identity and linguistic diversity.
○ Importance of education: The poem emphasizes the importance of education
in empowering the youth to become leaders and agents of change.
○ Globalized world: In a world increasingly dominated by English, the poem
reminds Filipinos of the importance of preserving and promoting their native
languages.
"Goodbye to Leonor"
● "Goodbye to Leonor" is a poem written by Jose Rizal in 1889. It expresses his
profound sorrow and longing for his beloved Leonor Rivera while he was studying
abroad in Europe.
● Key Points
○ “And so it has arrived—the fatal instant, the dismal injunction of my cruel
fate."
○ "Goodbye, Leonor, goodbye!"
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 18
○ "O Melancholy absence! Ah, what pain!"
● Implication to the current situation
○ Separation due to migration
○ Longing for home and identity
○ Struggle for freedom and justice
○ Importance of love and connection
PLAYS
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 19
● .and won first place prize award in 1880 - 1881 literacy contest commemorating the
death of cervantes
● In December 1900 the Play El Consejo de los Dioses was translated into Tagalog and
this version was adapted into sarswela by Pascual H Poblete and published in El
Comercio de Filipinas.
● Lope Blas Hucapte made arrangement for sta staging in 1951
● In 1961 it was edited with a prolonged by Astrana Maria in EL Cervantismo de Heroe
Filipino Rizal
● Nick Joaquin translated the play into English
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 20
discrimination about Noli Me Tangere and for initiating the banning of Noli in the fall
of 1889. The first pamphlet was printed in Barcelona under the authorship of Dimas
Alang.
● The play opens with Father Font calling the provincial priest to discuss the state of the
Philippines. Father Font is concerned about the growing discontent among the
Filipino people, and he believes that the Spanish government needs to take steps to
address the situation. The provincial priest, on the other hand, is more optimistic. He
believes that the Filipinos are content with their lot in life, and that they have no
desire for independence."
● The two friars spend the rest of the play arguing about the future of the Philippines.
Father Font argues that the Spanish government needs to grant the Filipinos more
autonomy, while the provincial priest argues that the Filipinos are not ready for
self-government.
● The play ends with Father Font and the provincial priest agreeing to disagree. Father
Font vows to continue working for the betterment of the Philippines, while the
provincial priest vows to continue defending Spanish rule.
MUSICAL COMPOSITIONS
Kundiman ni Rizal
● Jose Rizal wrote “Kundiman” in Tagalog on September 12,1891. A kundiman is
actually a traditional Filipino love song used by a young man to serenade the woman
of his love. The theme of Rizal’s “Kundiman” is his intense love for his Motherland.
His words reflected his optimism that the Philippines would be freed from injustice
and bondage.
● The last verse should leave no doubt that Rizal believed that a bloody revolution was
a distinct possibility. Compare this last verse and the first two verses of another
kundiman of Rizal's "Alin Mang Lahi" , and then to a verse in his "Mi ultimo adios
● In the case of Kundiman, Rizal used and wrote it to express his love for the country, at
the same time, to express his abomination towards Spanish violence and the injustice
which was obvious at that time. The poem/song clearly brought out the threats behind
those words and the plans that may occur in its future. Maybe that's why it was used
as evidence against Rizal during his trial. The song also showed how optimistic and
hopeful Rizal was, thinking that someday, our country would have its
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 21
willing to dedicate themselves if they are being deprived of freedom. Even if it will
result from being killed, they will accept it wholeheartedly with a smile on their face.
It is an honor to fight for your own country in any race. May his works, and acts be a
reminder to us Filipinos that intelligence is our greatest weapon, and our heart is our
greatest force in fighting for our own country
Ang kamatayan man, kung saka-sakaling
Igiginhawa ng mga kalahi
Tatanggapin nakangiti
Kaaliwa’t tuwang di mumunti.
● In this stanza, Rizal clearly stated that even death can’t stop someone for fighting and
seeking freedom. Our heroes didn’t die in vain, they fought for a good course and
they will never be forgotten. Patriotism is being selfless and sacrificing for the
betterment of your country. Some are willing to sacrifice themselves just to fight,
there are many ways to show patriotism and we can all play our part.
Leonor
● Prior to his departure for Europe, Jose Rizal composed the song Leonor as a farewell
poem with music for Leonor Rivera, the girl to whom he was engaged to be married.
He composed the melody during a sojourn in Dagupan, Pangasinan.
● It was in Dagupan where the love story of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal and Leonor
Rivera blossomed; it was also where their romance met a heart-wrenching end.
● Rizal’s composition, Leonor is a Kundiman of music. It sounds sweet but the content or
its lyrics contains his being “heartbroken” with Leonor.
● Leonor was one of the most important women in the life of Jose Rizal. She was the second
to win Rizal’s heart. Leonor Rivera first met Rizal when she was only twelve years old and
Jose was eighteen years old. Her parents were distant relatives of Rizal whom he
addressed “Tia Betang” and “Tio Antonio.” The management of their boarding house
which they called “Casa Tomasina” was Tia Betang’s responsibility.
● The song, written in Spanish, shows another facet of Rizal’s intellectual prowess. One
line went: “Recuerdo triste tan solo mi anhelo ay! Leonor (Always remember my sad
longing for you, Leonor).”
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 22
READING MATERIALS
REFERENCES
6 messages of Jose Rizal’s sa mga kababaihang taga Malolos (To the women of Malolos).
(2023, August 11). Study Rizal.
https://www.studyrizal.com/2023/08/6-messages-of-jose-rizals-sa-mga.html
Colonialism in “Manifesto to certain Filipinos” by Jose Rizal essay. (n.d.). IvyPanda.
https://ivypanda.com/essays/colonialism/
Group 9 Rizal. (2020, July 18). The Philippines: A Century Hence Summary [YouTube
Video]. https://youtu.be/_iUr3BIT9ho?si=_vpbjE8VwBaAPCQR
Lim, J. R. (2011, August 27). The indolence of the Filipinos: Summary and analysis. The Life
and Works of Rizal.
https://thelifeandworksofrizal.blogspot.com/2011/08/indolence-of-filipinos-summary-
and.html
Mañebog, J. (2013). Jose Rizal’s essays and articles. OurHappySchool.
https://ourhappyschool.com/literature/jose-rizal%E2%80%99s-essays-and-articles
Nery, J. (2011, June 28). The 10 most important letters Rizal wrote. Inquirer.
https://opinion.inquirer.net/7014/the-10-most-important-letters-rizal-wrote
BSN 3-7 (Group 10) - Rizal’s Essays, Poems, and other Literary Works | 23