I.

Introduction

 Hook: Start with a captivating quote or anecdote related to the impact of society
on individuals.
 Introduction to the Topic: Briefly introduce the overarching theme of how
society shapes individual character.
 Thesis Statement: Clearly state your argument regarding the impact of societal
events on Jose Rizal's character, specifically focusing on the events of the 19th
century such as the ascendance of the Chinese mestizo and the issue of the friar
lands.

II. Understanding Society's Influence on Character

 Explanation of Societal Influence: Discuss the concept of societal influence on

individual character, touching upon factors such as cultural norms, socio-
economic dynamics, and historical events.
 Importance of Context: Highlight the significance of considering historical
context when analyzing how societal factors shape an individual's character.

III. The 19th Century Philippine Context

 Overview of 19th Century Philippines: Provide a brief overview of the socio-

political and economic landscape of the Philippines in the 19th century.
 Key Events and Issues: Discuss pivotal events such as the ascendance of the
Chinese mestizo class and the issue of the friar lands, emphasizing their
significance in shaping Philippine society and influencing individual perceptions
and actions.

IV. Impact of the Ascendance of the Chinese Mestizo Class

 Description of the Chinese Mestizo Class: Provide background information on

the rise of the Chinese mestizo class in Philippine society.
 Effects on Jose Rizal's Character: Analyze how Rizal's interactions with and
observations of the Chinese mestizo class may have influenced his views on
social inequality, identity, and reform.

V. The Issue of the Friar Lands

 Explanation of the Friar Lands Issue: Discuss the socio-economic and political
implications of the friar lands issue in 19th century Philippines.
 Impact on Jose Rizal: Explore how Rizal's exposure to the injustices
surrounding the friar lands issue may have shaped his advocacy for agrarian
reform and his critique of Spanish colonial rule.

VI. Synthesis: Society's Impact on Jose Rizal's Character

  Analysis of Combined Effects: Reflect on how the combined influence of
societal factors, including the ascendance of the Chinese mestizo class and the
issue of the friar lands, contributed to shaping Jose Rizal's character.
 Integration of Thesis: Revisit your thesis statement and demonstrate how your
discussion supports your argument regarding the impact of societal events on
Rizal's character.

VII. Conclusion

 Summary of Key Points: Recap the main arguments and insights presented in
the essay.
 Final Reflection: Offer a concluding thought or reflection on the broader
implications of understanding the influence of society on individual character.
 Closing Statement: End with a compelling closing statement that reinforces the
significance of analyzing societal influences on historical figures like Jose Rizal.

Notes:

The events in the 19th century, the ascendance of

the Chinese mestizo, and the issue of the friar lands shaped
Jose Rizal into a courageous advocate for reform, nationalism,
and social justice.
The events in the 19th century, including the rise of
nationalism and the Philippine Revolution against Spanish
colonization, deeply influenced Rizal's character. Growing up
in a time of political awakening, Rizal witnessed the injustices
and abuses inflicted upon the Filipino people, which fueled his
passion for reform and independence. He became a prominent
advocate for social and political change, using his writings and
intellectual prowess to expose the inequalities and advocate
for the rights of the Filipino people.
The ascendance of the Chinese mestizo, a term used to refer
to individuals of mixed Chinese and Filipino heritage, had an
impact on Rizal's identity. As a mestizo himself, Rizal
experienced firsthand the complexities of belonging to both
Filipino and Chinese cultures. This multicultural
background influenced his perspective and understanding of
the diverse identities and struggles within the Philippine
society.
The issue of the friar lands, which pertained to the vast
landholdings owned by the Catholic Church in the Philippines,
also shaped Rizal's character. The friars held significant power
and influence over the Filipino people, and their oppressive
practices and abuses ignited Rizal's determination to fight for
land reform and challenge the authority of the friars.
His experiences and encounters with the friars motivated him
to expose their misdeeds through his writings, such as his
novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo."
Overall, the events of the 19th century, the ascendance of the
Chinese mestizo, and the issue of the friar lands deeply
influenced Jose Rizal's character, shaping him into a
courageous and visionary leader who fought for the rights and
liberation of the Filipino people. His experiences and
observations during this time contributed to his ideals of
nationalism, social justice, and reform, which continue to
inspire generations of Filipinos.