Overview
This lecture discusses the early life of Dr. Jose Rizal, focusing on his family background, childhood experiences, and early education.
Birth and Family Background
- Jose Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna.
- He was baptized on June 22, 1861, by Father Rufino Colliantes; his name was chosen after Saint Joseph.
- Rizal’s father, Francisco Mercado Rizal, was born in Binan and was educated in Latin and philosophy.
- His mother, Doña Teodora Alonso Realonda, was educated at the College of Santa Rosa and was skilled in literature, business, and mathematics.
- The Rizal family belonged to the principalia (town aristocracy) and was well-off and well-educated.
- The family's original surname was Mercado, later supplemented with "Rizal" by Spanish authorities.
Rizal's Siblings
- Rizal had ten siblings: Saturnina, Paciano, Narcisa, Olimpia, Lucia, Maria, Concepcion (Concha), Josefa, Trinidad, and Soledad.
- Most siblings were educated; some married, while others remained unmarried.
Family Life and Social Status
- The Rizal family rented land from the Dominican Order to farm rice, corn, and sugar cane.
- They also raised animals and managed several businesses, including a goods store and flour mill.
- The family home had a private library with over 1,000 volumes and owned a carriage—a symbol of social status.
Childhood Memories and First Sorrow
- Rizal was close to his sister Concha, who died at age three, causing him his first sorrow.
- As a child, he was frail and often cared for by a nursemaid.
- Rizal enjoyed a loving, religious family environment with daily prayers and family gatherings.
Artistic Talents and Interests
- At age five, Rizal began making sketches and modeling objects in clay and wax.
- He painted a religious banner better than the original for his town’s fiesta.
- He enjoyed riding a pony and spending time outdoors.
Early Education
- Rizal’s first teacher was his mother, who taught him the alphabet at age three.
- He had private tutors, including Maestro Celestino, Maestro Lucas Padua, and Leon Monroy, who taught him Spanish and Latin.
- After Monroy's death, he attended a private school in Binan, Laguna.
Schooling in Binan
- Rizal was homesick but excelled academically in Spanish and Latin.
- He experienced bullying but stood up for himself, gaining respect among classmates.
- Rizal endured punishments but was recognized for his intellect.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Principalia — the local aristocratic class during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines.
- Ilustrado — a member of the educated Filipino elite.
- Ayah — a nursemaid or caregiver for children.
- Mercado — Spanish for "merchant," the original family surname.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Proceed to the second part of Dr. Jose Rizal’s life in the next lecture.