RIZAL’S LIFE AND WORKS

SAINT VINCENT COLLEGE OF CABUYAO S.Y. 2023-2024 (2ND SEMESTER)

REACTION PAPER
(NOLI ME TANGERE)

G. MARKGIL H. MENGUITA, LPT

PROFESSOR

CIELO GRACE A. CACHO/BSA 4TH YEAR

NAME AND COURSE

March 18, 2024

DATE

REACTION PAPER

1 Referensiya: Filipino sa Piling Larang (Akademik), Florante C. Garcia, PhD, SIBS Publishing House, 2017
 RIZAL’S LIFE AND WORKS
SAINT VINCENT COLLEGE OF CABUYAO S.Y. 2023-2024 (2ND SEMESTER)

NOLI ME TANGERE
SUMMARY:

"Noli Me Tangere," written by Filipino national hero Jose Rizal, is a novel

published in 1887 during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines. The title, translated
as "Touch Me Not," is taken from the Latin phrase spoken by Jesus to Mary Magdalene in
the Gospel of John. The novel is considered a seminal work in Philippine literature and is
often required reading in Filipino schools.
The story revolves around Crisostomo Ibarra, a young Filipino who returns to the
Philippines after seven years of education in Europe. He seeks to bring positive change to
his hometown, San Diego, by building a school and advocating for reforms. However, he
encounters opposition from corrupt friars, government officials, and other influential
figures who abuse their power for personal gain.
Throughout the novel, Rizal highlights various social issues prevalent during the Spanish
colonial period, such as the oppression of the native Filipino population, abuse by the
clergy, corruption within the government, and the detrimental effects of colonialism on
Filipino society. The characters in "Noli Me Tangere" represent different facets of
Philippine society, including the oppressed peasants, the exploitative friars, and the
educated middle class.
Key events in the novel include Ibarra's efforts to establish a school, his romance with
Maria Clara (the daughter of a wealthy estate owner and a symbol of the Filipino elite), the
injustices suffered by the peasants(poor farmer) and indigenous people, and the tragic
fate of Ibarra's father, who is falsely accused of rebellion and dies in prison.
"Noli Me Tangere" serves as a critique of Spanish colonial rule and a call for reform and
national consciousness among Filipinos. It played a significant role in inspiring the
Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonialism and continues to be regarded as a
symbol of Filipino identity and resistance.

CONNECTION IN SOCIETY TODAY:

The connection of NOLI ME TANGERE in our society today is continues to

resonate in contemporary society as a powerful critique of social injustice, political
corruption, and the enduring struggle for freedom, equality, and dignity. It serves as a
reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by societies striving for a more just and
equitable world.

ONE CHARACTER THAT RESEMBLES YOU NOR REFELCTS YOU.

I resonate with Basilio's resilience, determination, and commitment to his loved

ones. Like him, I strive to persevere in the face of difficulties and work towards achieving
my goals while staying true to my principles.
On the other hand, a character who may not reflect me entirely is Don Tiburcio de
Espadaña. Don Tiburcio is portrayed as a dishonest and opportunistic individual who
exploits others for his own gain. His character embodies deceit and selfishness, qualities
that I aim to avoid in my own life.

2 Referensiya: Filipino sa Piling Larang (Akademik), Florante C. Garcia, PhD, SIBS Publishing House, 2017
 RIZAL’S LIFE AND WORKS
SAINT VINCENT COLLEGE OF CABUYAO S.Y. 2023-2024 (2ND SEMESTER)

REFLECTION:

Reflecting on "Noli Me Tangere," I am struck by its enduring relevance and

profound exploration of the human condition amidst social and political turmoil. Jose
Rizal's magnum opus serves as a timeless mirror reflecting the complexities of society,
the struggles for justice, and the quest for national identity.One aspect that resonates
deeply with me is the novel's portrayal of social injustice and oppression. Through vivid
characters and compelling narratives, Rizal exposes the pervasive corruption, abuse of
power, and exploitation prevalent during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines. The
plight of the marginalized, the indignities suffered by the peasantry, and the hypocrisy of
the ruling elite are depicted with unflinching honesty, challenging readers to confront the
harsh realities of their own society.Furthermore, "Noli Me Tangere" explores the complex
interactions between politics, religion, and culture, shedding light on the manner in which
these factors influence both the individual and societal fates. Characters like Elias
represent the fortitude and spirit of resistance against tyranny, while corrupt clergy
members like Padre Damaso represent the perversion of spiritual authority for personal
gain. Thinking back on the themes and characters of "Noli Me Tangere," I am reminded of
the ongoing struggles for justice and freedom in our modern world. The novel's critique of
injustice, affirmation of human dignity, and demand for reform resonate over place and
time, motivating us to address contemporary injustices and fight toward a more just and
equitable society.
In conclusion, "Noli Me Tangere" is more than just a literary masterpiece; it is a
profound reflection on the human condition and a powerful call to action. As we grapple
with the challenges of our own time, let us heed the lessons of Rizal's masterpiece and
strive to build a world guided by compassion, justice, and solidarity.

3 Referensiya: Filipino sa Piling Larang (Akademik), Florante C. Garcia, PhD, SIBS Publishing House, 2017