Jose Rizal's Life and Works Quiz

Rizal's Life and Works

Rizal's Legacy

Dr. Jose Rizal is a national hero in the Philippines, celebrated for his contributions to the country's independence from Spanish colonial rule. His legacy extends beyond his political and social activism, encompassing his literary works as well. Rizal's novels, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," are considered the Philippine national epics, and they have had a significant impact on the country's history and culture.

Rizal's Exile

After the publication of "Noli Me Tangere" in 1887, Rizal faced persecution from the Spanish authorities. He was exiled to Dapitan, a remote town in the southern Philippines, where he was confined for several years. During his exile, Rizal focused on his medical studies, practicing medicine on the local population and establishing the first hospital in the town.

Rizal's Childhood

Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, Philippines. He was the third of six children of Francisco Mercado Rizal and Teodora Alonzo. Rizal's father was a civil servant, and his mother was a descendant of Chinese immigrants. Rizal's childhood was marked by his parents' financial struggles, which forced him to work at a young age to support the family.

El Filibusterismo

"El Filibusterismo" is the sequel to "Noli Me Tangere," published in 1891. The novel continues the story of Crisostomo Ibarra and Maria Clara, focusing on their struggles against the Spanish colonial system. "El Filibusterismo" is considered a classic of Filipino literature, and it has had a profound influence on the country's cultural and political history.

Noli Me Tangere

"Noli Me Tangere" was published in 1887 and is Rizal's most famous work. The novel is a scathing critique of the Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines, exposing the corruption and brutality of the Spanish friars. The novel's title, which means "Touch Me Not," is a reference to a scene in which the protagonist, Crisostomo Ibarra, is confronted by a friar who attempts to seduce Maria Clara.

In conclusion, Rizal's life and works have had a significant impact on the Philippines. His legacy as a national hero and his literary contributions, including "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," have shaped the country's history, culture, and identity.