Noli Me Tangere Flashcards
What were some of the literary and artistic works that influenced Rizal in writing Noli Me Tangere?
Several works influenced Rizal, including Juan Luna’s painting, Spoliarium, which depicted human suffering due to inequalities, and Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, which addressed slavery in America
Where and when did Rizal work on and complete the manuscript of Noli Me Tangere?
Rizal began writing the novel in Spain, continued in France, and completed the draft in 1886.
In what year and city was Noli Me Tangere published, and what was the initial number of copies printed?
The novel was published in 1887 in Berlin, Germany, with an initial printing of 2,000 copies.
Who was responsible for the cover design of Noli Me Tangere, and what was its purpose?
Jose Rizal personally designed the cover of Noli Me Tangere to contain symbols that depict the social conditions of the Philippines when it was written.
How was the publication of Noli Me Tangere financially supported?
The publication was delayed due to a lack of funds. Maximo Viola, a fellow ilustrado, provided Rizal with a loan of 300 pesos to cover the printing costs.
What does the title Noli Me Tangere mean, and what is its origin?
The title, Noli Me Tangere, is Latin for “Touch me not”. It has a Biblical reference to the Gospel of John, where Jesus says these words to Mary Magdalene after his resurrection: “Touch me not, for I am not yet ascended to my Father”
What was Rizal’s original language choice for writing Noli Me Tangere, and why did he ultimately choose Spanish?
Rizal initially planned to write his novel in French, which was considered the language of intellectuals in Europe. However, he shifted to Spanish because he intended to reach out to his countrymen in the Philippines.
What was the primary objective behind Rizal’s writing of Noli Me Tangere?
The main goal of writing Noli Me Tangere was to expose the ills of Philippine colonial society under Spain. Through the novel, readers also get a glimpse of how Rizal viewed his country.
What is the significance of the dedication “A Mi Patria” in Noli Me Tangere?
The dedication titled “A Mi Patria” in the initial pages of the Noli clearly articulated Rizal’s purpose for writing the novel.
Can you summarize the central plot of Noli Me Tangere?
The story revolves around Juan Crisostomo Ibarra after his return to the Philippines from Europe. The novel begins with a homecoming gathering organized by Capitan Tiago. The narrative follows the characters as they navigate the complex realities of colonial Philippines. Ibarra also rekindles his relationship with his betrothed, Maria Clara, and learns about the problems and abuses, particularly by the friars, that plagued his town and victimized his late father, leading to conflict with Padre Damaso.
What were some of the initial challenges and conflicts Ibarra faced upon his return to the Philippines?
Upon his return, Ibarra encountered Padre Damaso, the former curate of San Diego, who became his antagonist and ordered the exhumation and reburial of Ibarra’s father’s corpse in the Chinese cemetery.
Despite the difficulties he faced, what was Ibarra determined to accomplish in San Diego?
Despite his personal struggles, Ibarra persevered in his plan to build a school in San Diego, driven by his belief in the importance of education for the nation’s progress.
Who saved Ibarra from a potentially fatal incident, and what prior advice did this person give him?
Elias, a boatman, saved Ibarra. Elias had previously cautioned Ibarra about actions that could anger the friars.
Describe the significant confrontation that occurred at Ibarra’s luncheon.
During a luncheon organized by Ibarra, Padre Damaso attended uninvited, leading to another confrontation. In anger, Ibarra threatened Damaso with a knife, publicly revealing the friar’s abuses and the desecration of his father’s remains. Maria Clara intervened to prevent Ibarra from killing Damaso.
How did Padre Damaso retaliate against Ibarra after their confrontation?
In an act of revenge, Damaso persuaded Capitan Tiago, Maria Clara’s father, to prevent his daughter from marrying Ibarra.
What event led to Ibarra’s imprisonment?
Ibarra was falsely blamed for a revolt, which resulted in his incarceration.
Who aided Ibarra in escaping from prison?
Elias helped Ibarra escape from imprisonment
What transpired during Ibarra’s meeting with Maria Clara after his escape?
When Ibarra went to see Maria Clara, he found that she was soon to marry someone else chosen by her father. In a heartbreaking confrontation, they exchanged accusations, and it was revealed that Damaso was Maria Clara’s true father.
What was Maria Clara’s reaction upon believing that Ibarra had died?
Believing Ibarra was dead, Maria Clara was filled with endless grief and requested to be confined to a nunnery to avoid taking her own life
What were the fates of Ibarra and Elias at the end of the novel’s summarized plot?
It was revealed that Ibarra was not dead, but Elias was fatally shot. In his final moments, Elias instructed the young Basilio to find Ibarra’s buried treasure and use it for education, urging him to never lose hope and to remember those who suffered if the country ever achieved freedom and progress.
Who is Crisostomo Ibarra in Noli Me Tangere?
Crisostomo Ibarra is a Filipino who studied in Europe for seven years and the son of Don Rafael Ibarra. He is also Maria Clara’s sweetheart and love interest.
Describe Elias’s role in the story.
Elias is portrayed as Ibarra’s mysterious friend and a master boater who helps Ibarra escape. He is also identified as a fugitive.
Who is Maria Clara, and what is her parentage?
Maria Clara is Ibarra’s sweetheart and the beautiful daughter of Captain Tiago. However, she is the illegitimate daughter of Father Damaso and Pia Alba.
What is Father Damaso’s full name and his relationship to Maria Clara?
Father Damaso’s full name is Damaso Verdolagas, and he is a Franciscan friar and Maria Clara’s biological father.
