Life and Works of Jose Rizal Quiz

Early Life and Education of Jose Rizal

• At a young age, Jose Rizal showed eagerness to learn how to read and write, taught by his family members.
• His mother taught him to read, write, and do basic arithmetic, while his brother Paciano guided him and taught him patriotism.
• His father's vast collection of books in their library further fueled his desire to learn.
• He was particularly influenced by the story of the moth or the "Foolish Butterfly" from "Children's Friend" by Abbé Sabatier.

Childhood Development

• At age three, he learned his alphabet from his mother.
• His father hired a private tutor who taught him reading, writing, and the rudiments of Latin.
• At age seven, he was sent to a private school in Calamba, but was sent home after a few weeks for already knowing everything the teacher had to teach.
• At age eight, he wrote the poem "Sa Aking Mga Kabata", promoting the love for one's language.

Education in Biñan

• At age nine, he was sent to study in Biñan under Justiniano Aquino-Cruz, a strict disciplinarian.
• After a few months, he was sent home for having already learned as much as his teacher.

Education in Ateneo

• At age eleven, he entered Ateneo Municipal, marking the start of his formal education.
• Ateneo Municipal was known for its equal treatment of Filipino and Spanish students.
• Rizal earned excellent marks in his subjects and wrote the award-winning poetry "Junto Al Pasig".
• He also practiced drawing, painting, and clay modeling.
• He graduated as 'sobresaliente' (excellent) with the highest honors, receiving his bachelor's degree in art on March 14, 1877.