1.
Summary of Noli Me Tangere:
Noli Me Tangere is a novel written by Filipino national hero, Jose Rizal. Set in the 19th century Philippines
during the Spanish colonial era, the story revolves around the life of Crisostomo Ibarra, a young and
idealistic Filipino who returns to his homeland after studying abroad in Europe.
Upon his return, Ibarra discovers the deeply rooted corruption and abuses suffered by the Filipino
people under Spanish rule. He witnesses the injustices committed by the Spanish friars and government
officials, as well as the social and economic disparities among the Filipinos.
Ibarra's passion for reform and desire for justice lead him to question the oppressive system and the role
of the Church in perpetuating such inequality. As he becomes more involved in advocating for change, he
faces various challenges, including personal vendettas, betrayal, and romantic entanglements.
The novel also explores the lives of other characters, such as Maria Clara, Ibarra's love interest, who
represents the struggles of Filipino women and their limited agency in society. It delves into the lives of
different social classes, revealing the harsh realities faced by the impoverished masses and the privileges
enjoyed by the ruling elite.
Noli Me Tangere serves as an indictment of the Spanish colonial regime and a call for social and political
reform. It portrays the rampant corruption, abuse of power, and religious hypocrisy prevalent during that
period. The novel played a significant role in awakening Filipino national consciousness and inspiring the
Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule.
2. Story Behind the Noli Me Tangere:
The story behind Noli Me Tangere begins with Jose Rizal's experiences during his studies in Europe,
where he witnessed the mistreatment of Filipinos under Spanish colonial rule. Rizal's exposure to the
ideas of nationalism, liberalism, and political reform in Europe greatly influenced his perspective on the
Philippine situation.
Inspired by his desire to expose the injustices suffered by his fellow countrymen, Rizal decided to write a
novel that would shed light on the social, political, and religious issues prevalent in the Philippines. He
aimed to awaken the Filipino people to the need for change and reform.
Rizal started writing Noli Me Tangere in 1884 while he was still studying in Europe. The novel was
completed and published in 1887 in Berlin, Germany, due to difficulties in getting it published in the
Philippines because of its controversial content.
The title, Noli Me Tangere, is Latin for "Touch Me Not," which is derived from a biblical passage. It
symbolizes the protagonist's struggle against the oppressive system and serves as a warning against
those who perpetrate injustice.
Upon its publication, Noli Me Tangere faced immediate backlash from the Spanish authorities and the
Catholic Church. The novel was seen as a threat to their power and sparked intense debates and
discussions among Filipinos.
While some criticized Rizal's work, others embraced it as a powerful tool for awakening national
consciousness and inspiring resistance against Spanish colonial rule. Noli Me Tangere played a significant
role in shaping the nationalist movement in the Philippines and contributed to the eventual Philippine
Revolution in 1896.
Despite the controversies surrounding it, Noli Me Tangere remains a significant literary work that
continues to be studied and celebrated for its portrayal of social issues, patriotism, and the fight for
justice and equality.
