MINDANAO STATE UNIVERSITY-ILIGAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

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Rizal Unveiled: The Cinematic Canvas and Literary Legacy of the Philippine
National Hero

A Critical Essay submitted to:

Professor Celyn Junio Teatro

Department of History

College of Arts and Social Science

In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements

In
GEC109 Life and Works Of Rizal
B3-1

Submitted by:

Miape, Kaye Eule Paz S.

Bachelor of Science in Economics

NOVEMBER 2023
 Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology
College of Arts and Social Science
Department of History

Rizal Unveiled: The Cinematic Canvas and Literary Legacy of the Philippine
National Hero

In the tapestry of Philippine history, one figure stands as a beacon of

intellectual brilliance and unwavering patriotism - Jose Protacio Rizal. Born on June
19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, Rizal's life unfolded against the backdrop of Spanish
colonial rule, marked by the indomitable spirit that would later fuel the flames of
revolution. From a young age, Rizal exhibited an insatiable thirst for knowledge,
mastering multiple languages and delving into a myriad of disciplines. His journey
took him across continents, with academic pursuits leading him to the prestigious
universities of Europe, where he honed his skills in medicine, philosophy, and the
arts.
However, Rizal was not merely a scholar; he was a visionary who used his
pen as a mighty sword against the injustices of his time. His literary masterpieces,
such as "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," became catalysts for social
awakening, challenging the status quo and inspiring a generation to rise against
oppression. Beyond his intellectual prowess, Rizal's commitment to reform and
justice manifested in his civic engagements. He advocated for equality, education,
and the eradication of societal ills that plagued his beloved homeland. His activism
and ideals ignited the spark that would later blaze into the Philippine Revolution
against Spanish tyranny.
Rizal's life was a tapestry interwoven with love, as he cultivated deep
connections with family and friends. His romantic entanglements, notably with
women like Leonor Rivera and Josephine Bracken, added a human dimension to his
complex persona. Despite personal trials, Rizal's love for country remained
unwavering, and he ultimately paid the ultimate price for his convictions, facing
execution on December 30, 1896, at Bagumbayan, now known as Luneta Park. As
we reflect on the 20 facets of Jose Rizal's life, we see not just a man, but a luminary
who illuminated the path towards freedom and nationhood. His legacy endures as a
testament to the enduring power of ideas, the resilience of the human spirit, and the
indomitable will to chart one's destiny amidst the tumultuous currents of history.
Rizal's life serves as an educational resource for people, both in the
Philippines and around the world. His story is a rich source of historical, cultural, and
philosophical insights. Books and films about Rizal help convey important historical

Miape, Kaye Eule Paz S.

Bachelor of Science in Economics- II
College of Economics, Business and Accountancy
 Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology
College of Arts and Social Science
Department of History
lessons, including the colonial history of the Philippines, the intellectual awakening
during the late 19th century, and the complexities of the struggle for independence.
For instance, in the 1998 film "Jose Rizal" directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya is a
remarkable cinematic representation of the Philippine national hero. Through his
compelling performance, the film provides a window into Rizal's life and the
multifaceted symbolism within the narrative. The film also explores Rizal's romantic
relationships, and the scene depicting his courtship of Leonor Rivera is a poignant
example. Montano's portrayal of Rizal's affection and devotion to Leonor Rivera
symbolizes the personal sacrifices made by Rizal as he balanced his love life with his
commitment to the national struggle. This duality of Rizal's character reflects the
complexities of his life and his role in the fight for Philippine independence.
Rizal's retraction before his execution is another pivotal moment. Montano's
performance captures the controversy and internal conflict surrounding this event.
The scene symbolizes the debates and uncertainties that continue to surround
Rizal's retraction, leaving room for interpretation and discussion, much like the
historical reality. The film also sheds light on Rizal's friendships, and the scenes with
his close friends and compatriots are significant. Montano's interactions with
characters like Jose Alejandrino and Juan Luna symbolize the camaraderie and unity
among the Filipino reformists during the Propaganda Movement. These scenes
emphasize the collaborative efforts of Rizal and his contemporaries in the fight for
national identity and independence. The portrayal of Rizal's intellectual pursuits, such
as his studies in Europe, serves as another layer of symbolism. Montano's depiction
of Rizal's thirst for knowledge symbolizes the importance of education and
enlightenment in the quest for social and political change. It underscores Rizal's
belief in the power of knowledge to transform society.
In the book "Rizal: Philippine Nationalist and Martyr" by Austin Coates, the life
of Jose Rizal is vividly depicted through meticulous research and engaging
storytelling. Coates delves into the personal and public aspects of Rizal's life, offering
a well-rounded portrayal. He draws on a wide range of primary sources, including
Rizal's own writings and letters, to provide an intimate look at Rizal's thoughts,
emotions, and motivations. Through his extensive research, Coates reveals the
family background and early influences that shaped Rizal, making it clear that his
upbringing played a pivotal role in his later convictions and actions. Coates explores
how Rizal's experiences as a young student in the Philippines and his later education
in Europe broadened his horizons, leading to his deepening commitment to the
Philippine cause. By weaving these personal and academic elements together, the
book showcases how Rizal's journey was influenced by both his individual
Miape, Kaye Eule Paz S.
Bachelor of Science in Economics- II
College of Economics, Business and Accountancy
 Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology
College of Arts and Social Science
Department of History
experiences and the broader socio-political landscape. For instance, Coates writes,
"His mother, a remarkable woman, taught him the rudiments of reading and writing;
then she and the Jesuit Brother Leoncio Lopez instructed him further in the rudiments
of education" (Coates, 1976, p. 16). Through such references, Coates constructs a
comprehensive narrative of Rizal's youth, establishing a solid foundation for the rest
of the biography.
Furthermore, "Rizal: Philippine Nationalist and Martyr" discusses Rizal's role
as a reformist and the various societies and movements he was involved in, such as
La Liga Filipina and Propaganda Movement. Coates presents Rizal as a pragmatic
idealist who believed in peaceful reform as the initial path towards Philippine
independence. The book provides a nuanced understanding of Rizal's approach to
social and political change, emphasizing his dedication to non-violence and
education as instruments for transformation.
"Jose Rizal" (1998) and "Rizal: Philippine Nationalist and Martyr" by Austin
Coates offer distinct yet complementary ways of exploring the life of Jose Rizal. The
film harnesses the visual and emotional power of cinema to draw the audience into
Rizal's world. It capitalizes on the sensory experience of storytelling, making
historical events more engaging and relatable. However, this visual impact and
emotional resonance come at a cost, as films often need to simplify complex events
to fit within a limited timeframe. Creative liberties may also be taken to heighten
drama, which can blur the line between historical fact and fiction. While the film is
accessible to a wide audience, it may not provide the in-depth historical context and
nuanced perspective that a book can offer.
"Rizal: Through a Glass Darkly" by Nick Joaquin offers a distinctive and
literary exploration of Jose Rizal's life, presenting the national hero as a multifaceted
individual whose influence reverberates through Philippine society. Joaquin, a
celebrated Filipino writer and National Artist, adopts a narrative style that goes
beyond conventional biography, employing a literary lens to unveil the complexities of
Rizal's character. Joaquin's nuanced analysis delves into Rizal's thoughts, struggles,
and his profound impact on the Philippines. The author bravely confronts the darker
and more ambiguous facets of Rizal's character, providing readers with a realistic
and humanized perspective. Through eloquent prose, Joaquin invites readers to
perceive Rizal "through a glass darkly," suggesting that understanding Rizal's
motivations and the consequences of his actions is not always straightforward.
In the book, Joaquin navigates both the public and private spheres of Rizal's
life, exploring his relationships and the psychological nuances that shaped his
decisions. This literary endeavor adds layers to the comprehension of Rizal, urging
Miape, Kaye Eule Paz S.
Bachelor of Science in Economics- II
College of Economics, Business and Accountancy
 Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology
College of Arts and Social Science
Department of History
readers to grapple with the intricate web of his legacy and its profound impact on the
Filipino psyche. "Rizal: Through a Glass Darkly" stands as a testament to Joaquin's
literary prowess, showcasing his ability to unravel the enigma of Rizal's life in a
manner that captivates and challenges readers.
"The First Filipino" by Leon Maria Guerrero offers a comprehensive
exploration of Jose Rizal's life, portraying him as a pivotal figure in Philippine history
rather than just a national hero. Guerrero skillfully unfolds Rizal's narrative within the
intricate tapestry of 19th-century Philippines, providing a detailed account of his
formative years, education, and travels. The biography meticulously traces Rizal's
intellectual evolution, highlighting his roles as a scholar, writer, and advocate for
social and political reform.
A prominent theme emphasized by Guerrero is Rizal's commitment to
peaceful reform and his unwavering belief in education as a powerful catalyst for
societal change. The book underscores Rizal's strategic approach to addressing the
injustices of Spanish colonial rule through intellectual means, portraying his writings
as influential tools that ignited a national consciousness. Guerrero vividly illustrates
Rizal's pivotal role in inspiring a reawakening among Filipinos, encouraging them to
challenge the prevailing social order and envision a future free from oppression.
Guerrero delves beyond the public persona, providing readers with a nuanced
understanding of Rizal's personal life.
In the end, both the film and the book play crucial roles in enriching our
understanding of Rizal's life and legacy. They cater to different preferences and
objectives. While the film appeals to a broad audience by invoking emotions and
visually recreating history, the book delves deeper into historical accuracy, research,
and nuanced exploration. Together, these mediums provide a multifaceted
perspective on a national hero's life, ensuring that Rizal's legacy endures in the
hearts and minds of many, whether they are drawn to the vivid imagery of the screen
or the scholarly depth of written history.

Miape, Kaye Eule Paz S.

Bachelor of Science in Economics- II
College of Economics, Business and Accountancy
 Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology
College of Arts and Social Science
Department of History
Reference:

De Pedro, J. (2005). Rizal, through a glass darkly: A Spiritual Biography.

Furay, H. B. (1953). The stories of Nick Joaquin. Philippine Studies: Historical and
Ethnographic Viewpoints, 1(2), 144–154.
https://www.philippinestudies.net/ojs/index.php/ps/article/download/3470/60
05
Guerrero, L. M. (2003). The First Filipino, a biography of José Rizal.
http://ci.nii.ac.jp/ncid/BA87201923
Lietz, P. S., & Coates, A. (1969). Rizal: Philippine nationalist and martyr. The
American Historical Review, 75(1), 190. https://doi.org/10.2307/1842030
Pollard, V. K. (1999). Jose Rizal. Directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya. Manila: GMA
Films, 1998. 178 minutes. The Journal of Asian Studies, 58(4),
1203–1204. https://doi.org/10.2307/2658576
Zaide, G. F., & Zaide, S. M. (1984). Jose Rizal : life, works, and writings of a
genius, writer, scientist and national hero. In National Book Store.
http://ci.nii.ac.jp/ncid/BA43306334

Miape, Kaye Eule Paz S.

Bachelor of Science in Economics- II
College of Economics, Business and Accountancy