Synopsis of Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal

Publication

• Published in Berlin, 1887

Main Characters

• Crisostomo Ibarra: Young, wealthy Filipino who returns from studies in Europe.
• Maria Clara: Ibarra's fiancée, daughter of Capitan Tiago.
• Capitan Tiago (Santiago de los Santos): Host of the opening reception, Maria Clara's supposed father.
• Don Rafael Ibarra: Crisostomo's deceased father.
• Padre Damaso: Former parish priest of San Diego, antagonist.
• Padre Salvi: Franciscan parish priest of San Diego.
• Elias: Mysterious peasant who becomes an ally to Ibarra.
• Sisa, Basilio, and Crispin: Tragic family; Sisa is driven insane by the loss of her sons.

Synopsis

Opening Reception

• Setting: Captain Tiago's house on Calle Analogue.
• Guests: Includes prominent figures like Padre Damaso and various officials.

Plot Overview

• Ibarra's Return: He returns after 7 years abroad.
• Father's Death: Learns Don Rafael was imprisoned unjustly and died in jail.
• Maria Clara's Tease: Suggests Ibarra forgot her in Europe.
• Grave Desecration: Ibarra discovers his father's remains were desecrated by Padre Damaso.
• San Diego Visit: Meets locals including philosopher Tasio and various civic figures.
• Sisa's Tragedy: Her sons, Crispin and Basilio, suffer under church authorities; Crispin dies, Sisa goes mad.

Key Events

• Picnic Incident: Ibarra saves Elias from a crocodile, strengthening their bond.
• Schoolhouse Project: Ibarra works to build a school, facing opposition.
• Fiesta Sabotage: Ibarra survives a trap set by his enemies during the event.

Climax

• Padre Damaso Insult: Ibarra assaults Padre Damaso, breaking engagement with Maria Clara.
• Excommunication: Ibarra is excommunicated but supported by the liberal governor.

Tragic Outcomes

• Elias' Sacrifice: Elias helps Ibarra escape imprisonment.
• Maria Clara's Choice: Learns her true parentage and enters a convent.

Epilogue Outcomes

• Maria Clara: Lives unhappily as a nun.
• Capitan Tiago: Becomes an opium addict.
• Padre Damaso: Found dead after reassignment.
• Others: Includes various fates of other townspeople and officials.

Themes and Context

• Based on Reality: Reflects true Philippine conditions under Spanish rule.
• Characters: Modeled after real people known to Rizal.
• Lost Chapter: "Elias and Salome" was a deleted chapter removed for economic reasons.

Important Concepts

• Social Critique: Explores issues of colonialism, social injustice, and the power dynamics of the time.
• Symbolism: Uses characters and events to symbolize broader societal issues.