CHAPTER: 7
“A Chapter Review of Noli Me Tangere: A Reflection on and
Its Enduring Legacy”
A REFLECTION PAPER
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
In the Subject GE1804
Rizal’s Life and Works
To be Submitted to
Mr. Estrañero, Arvien
Submitted by
NIEVA, MICHAEAL
UNTONG, ANABEL ADAM
Date of Submission: 20, October 2024
ABSTRACT
This review goes through the pages of this novel, Noli Me Tangere, written by José Rizal. This
chapter investigates the enduring relevance of the novel, how it exerts an influence on modern
society and how the themes brought out are still relevant to date.
The analysis breaks down to the characters, story, and themes of a chapter, focusing on the literary
problem of how the novel is portrayed on colonial tyranny and how it has a long-lasting impact on
Filipino identity. The review shall be based on the major topics of the book: the evolution of
nationalism, patriotism, and volunteerism, which shall be discussed to help reflect their connection
with current life in the Philippines.
This review will use a personal perspective to explain why one must understand the past to navigate
its complexity.
Chapter Title: The Dinner Party:
Characters Involved: Juan Crisóstomo Ibarra - A young man protagonist who’s returning to his
hometown after years of studying abroad, Don Rafael Ibarra – Juan’s deceased father, a respected
figure in the community who was falsely accused of rebellion, Maria Clara de los Santos – Young
man’s childhood sweetheart and the daughter of a rich and influential family, Padre Damaso - A
shameful and tyrannical friar who holds a deep grudge against the Ibarra family, Don Filipo – A
wealthy landowner and friend of the Ibarra family, Sisa – A poor mother of Basilio and Crispin.
Chapter Summary:
The night occasion brings out the glaring socioeconomic difference in the neighborhood, powerful
and wealthy gaiety being treated to sumptuous celebrations while humble ones fight to get by. It is
during this night that Padre Dámaso's presence proves not to illuminate the occasion but casts a
shadow over it due to his obvious animosity towards the Ibarra family. The overall narrative of the
chapter is one of a grand celebration dinner thrown by Don Filipo to celebrate Ibarra's return.
Another great part of this chapter is the tragic tale of Sisa whose sons, Basilio and Crispin, are
maltreated by friars.
Interpretation of Junior High School Teacher:
My junior high school teacher focused on the social structure of the chapter and the power
relationships existing between the colonizers and the colonized people. She pointed out the duplicity
of the friars when they used their position to oppress the Filipino people, despite their claimed
spiritual leadership.
Reflections of the Issue in the Chapter to Modern Society:
Unfortunately, the issues of abuse of power and corruption and the socioeconomic inequalities of
the modern world are no less pertinent. The gap between the rich and poor continues to widen, and
many countries remain plagued by corruption. This chapter is helpful as a reminder that problems
like these are not new, but themselves have a long history.
Existence of the Literary Dilemma in the Modern Society:
The central literary problem of Noli Me Tangere is how to best fight injustice without using force.
In many countries, social injustice and inequality are widespread, so the issue remains one of political
relevance. Readers in search of ways to question the status quo continue to identify with the novel’s
treatment of this difficult subject.
Implied Topic Covered in this Chapter:
The chapter mentions the historical points of colonialism and its impact on Filipino identity. In
referring to the friars, the social order, and the violation of power, a good inference can be seen of
the oppressiveness of Spanish colonialism. The book narrates how this oppression characterizes and
determines Filipinos and their struggle for liberation.
Personal Reflection:
Noli Me Tangere much showed the shape of the perception of Filipino history and my identity. It
has made me realize the complexity of our history and the ways through which colonialism lasts with
the greatest lengths depicted by the injustices that the Filipinos go through during the Spanish rule.
All those aspects which the characters faced, their aspirations, and the things that they have given up
strike a chord for me, showing how essential it is essential to fight for fairness and equality.
The novel touches on elements of nationalism, patriotism, and volunteerism that really resonate
within me. Being a Filipino, I am reminded of the sacrifices our ancestors made in the struggle for
freedom and independence each day through history. Being motivated by the theme about
togetherness and working together, I will participate actively and make my community and country
better. This novel, urging education and critical thought, draws attention to the fact that it is merely
those who can access this knowledge and think critically about their situation who could resist
oppression or question the established order. This is quite a message that gets straight to my heart
because education is one of the most efficacious tools in empowering people or bringing social
change. Noli Me Tangere is not a historical novel-it stands as a strong declaration of human
resilience in the fight for freedom and justice. Themes and characters continue to nudge us to reflect
on the world and work towards a better tomorrow.
References:
Agoncillo, T. A. (1990). The Revolt of the Masses: The Story of Bonifacio and the Katipunan.
Quezon City: University of the Philippines Press.
Constantino, R. (1975). The Philippines: A Past Revisited. Quezon City: The Foundation for
Nationalist Studies.
Jocano, F. L. (2001). Philippine Prehistory: Archaeology and the Study of Culture. Quezon City: The
University of the Philippines Press.
Rizal, J. (2018). Noli Me Tangere. (M. A. de los Reyes, Trans.). Manila: National Commission for
Culture and the Arts.
Zaide, G. F. (1999). Rizal: Life, Works, and Writings. Manila: All Nations Publishing Co. Inc.
