Historical Context of El Filibusterismo

The Historical Context of El Filibusterismo

• El Filibusterismo is Rizal's second novel, a sequel to Noli Me Tangere, published in 1887.
• Rizal began writing El Filibusterismo in October 1887, in Calamba, Laguna, following his return from Europe.
• His return was challenging due to:
  • Spanish backlash to Noli Me Tangere, resulting in legal cases against Rizal's family.
  • Calamba farmers, including Rizal's family, facing land disputes reaching the Supreme Spanish court.
• Rizal aimed to expose Spanish oppression, corruption, and cruelty by Spanish officials and friars in El Filibusterismo.

The Inspiration for El Filibusterismo

• Rizal's personal experiences, including family persecution, Calamba farmer land issues, and general Filipino mistreatment, motivated El Filibusterismo.
• The novel presents more intense anger and a darker theme compared to the initial Noli Me Tangere as Rizal's experiences deepened.
• Writing served as a tool against injustice, discrimination, and exploitation for Rizal.
• El Filibusterismo's portrayal of Filipino anger and hatred is more explicit than the subtle tone of Noli Me Tangere.

Personal Experiences in El Filibusterismo

• Simoun embodies Rizal's personal experiences and emotions.
  • Simoun's isolation reflects Rizal's longing for Leonor Rivera, who married another.
  • Simoun represents Rizal's discontent with fellow Filipinos' initial support that later waned.

The Writing and Publication of El Filibusterismo

• Rizal fled the Philippines on February 3, 1888, due to ongoing Spanish persecution, seeking refuge in Europe.
• He wrote El Filibusterismo amidst his travels through London, Paris, Madrid, and Brussels.
  • Rizal completed the manuscript in Biarritz, France, on March 10, 1891.
• Publishing faced financial hurdles:
  • Rizal initially sought a printing press in Ghent, Belgium, but funding was lacking
  • Progress stalled at approximately page 100 due to financial issues.
• Rizal's friend, Valentin Ventura, provided funds to complete the printing of the work. The printing was completed in September 1891.

Dedication of El Filibusterismo

• In Ghent, Belgium, Rizal dedicated El Filibusterismo to the three martyred priests: Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora (Gomburza).
• The dedication pays tribute to Gomburza's sacrifices, an inspiration in their fight for justice.
• The execution of Gomburza deeply impacted Rizal, highlighting the need for radical change.

The Impact of El Filibusterismo

• El Filibusterismo is a significant political novel that aims to address the injustices of the time, highlighting issues like oppression and corruption.
• The transition from Crisóstomo Ibarra in Noli Me Tangere to Simoun in El Filibusterismo reflects increased frustration and despair due to the injustices they faced.
• This reflects the sacrifices of the Gomburza martyrs and Rizal's desire to amplify their aspirations.
• It criticizes the oppression, corruption, and injustices of the Spanish colonial era. Rizal stresses the need for courage, intelligence, and determination to make a real difference.
• Rizal's work serves as an enduring inspiration for Filipinos in their continued fight for freedom and justice.