What is freedom?
Freedom is the freedom to act, speak, and think without restraint,
encompassing political, personal, and social dimensions. It is a fundamental human right
allowing individuals to pursue their own paths and make choices that shape their lives.
How is the lack of freedom portrayed in the novel? Dr. Jose Rizal eloquently depicts the loss of
freedom that the Filipino people endured under Spanish colonial control in "Noli Me Tangere."
In the oppressive society portrayed in the novel, the ruling class uses violence, intimidation, and
manipulation to control the masses. Characters like Crisostomo Ibarra stand in for the fight for
reform and enlightenment in the face of oppression and ignorance. People like Padre Damaso,
who represents the dishonest priesthood that takes advantage of religious authority to keep
control over the populace, are prime examples of the repressive dictatorship.
In the course of the story, the absence of freedom takes many different shapes. For example,
colonial officials and local elites oppose Ibarra's attempts to open a school because they believe
that education will empower the masses. This This speaks to a larger topic in the book:
information is viewed as a danger to the powerful because it encourages critical thinking and
questions accepted wisdom.Furthermore, Rizal illustrates how indigenous Filipinos are subjected
to systematic abuses like arbitrary arrests, high taxes, and forced labor (polo y servicio), which
deprive people of their autonomy and dignity. There is no opportunity for hope or advancement
because of the fear to authorization.
How is the situation in the novel different from today? Even if "Noli Me Tangere" depicts a
particular historical period marked by colonial oppression, modern society offers a distinct
picture of freedom. The Philippines is a democratic country today, with citizens having the legal
right to vote, freely express their opinions, and participate in civic affairs without direct
intervention from an authoritarian government.
But it's important to recognize that problems still exist. Civil liberties are still impacted by
problems including press freedom threats, socioeconomic inequality, and corruption in
government institutions. Modern methods allow residents to express their discontent through
peaceful protests or legal procedures, in contrast to Rizal's time when dissent was faced with
serious effects, such as jail or execution.
Additionally, communication routes have changed due to technological improvements, making it
easier for citizens to mobilize for change and obtain information. Social media platforms offer
new problems in the form of disinformation and harassment, but they also provide activism tools
that were unthinkable in Rizal's day.
In conclusion, even though "Noli Me Tangere" emphasizes the great fights against oppression and
injustice during colonial times, the current situation shows both advancements toward increased
freedoms and continuous struggles against different types of oppression that call for citizens to
be vigilant and actively involved.
Important Characters in Noli Me Tangere
1. Crisostomo Ibarra: The protagonist of the novel, Ibarra represents the educated Filipino
elite who aspire for reform and enlightenment. His experiences reflect the struggle
between traditional values and progressive ideas as he seeks to improve his country
through education and social change.
2. Maria Clara: Ibarra’s love interest, Maria Clara symbolizes purity and the idealized Filipino
womanhood. She represents the societal expectations placed on women during that era
but also embodies the conflict between personal desires and familial obligations.
3. Elias: A significant character who serves as a guide for Ibarra, Elias represents the
oppressed masses of Filipinos who have suffered under colonial rule. He advocates for
revolution as a means to achieve justice and freedom, contrasting with Ibarra’s more
reformist approach.
4. Father Florentino: A priest who serves as a moral compass in the story, Father Florentino
represents the corrupt clergy that exploits their power over the people. His character
highlights the hypocrisy within religious institutions during Spanish colonization.
5. Pilosopo Tasio: An old philosopher known for his wisdom, Tasio symbolizes enlightenment
and critical thinking. He challenges societal norms and encourages others to question
authority, representing Rizal’s advocacy for intellectual freedom.
6. Sisa: A tragic figure in the novel, Sisa is a mother driven to madness by her search for her
lost sons, Crispin and Basilio. She embodies the suffering of mothers under colonial
oppression and reflects on how systemic injustices can devastate families.
7. Don Rafael Ibarra: Crisostomo’s father, Don Rafael is portrayed as an honorable man
who suffers due to his refusal to conform to corrupt practices within society. His character
illustrates how integrity can lead to persecution under oppressive regimes.
8. Capitan Tiago (Don Santiago de los Santos): Maria Clara’s adoptive father, Capitan
Tiago represents those who collaborate with colonial authorities for personal gain while
sacrificing their principles. His character showcases how some Filipinos chose comfort over
resistance.
9. Doña Victorina: A mestiza who tries hard to assimilate into Spanish culture while looking
down on her fellow Filipinos, Doña Victorina symbolizes self-hatred among some Filipinos
who aspire to be accepted by their colonizers at any cost.
10. Basilio: One of Sisa’s sons, Basilio represents hope for future generations despite
suffering immense hardships throughout his life. His journey from innocence to awareness
reflects Rizal’s belief in education as a tool for liberation.
