Lecture on Jose Rizal and His Romantic Relationships

Introduction

• Jose Rizal is a prominent figure in Philippine history, known for his life and works.
• He had amorous relationships with a significant number of women, 18 in total, 10 of whom were foreign.

Key Relationships

Segunda Katigbak

• First Heartbreak: Rizal's first heartbreak at age 16 with Segunda, who was 14.

Leonor Valenzuela (Orang)

• Neighbor and Love Notes: Rizal’s neighbor during his studies at the University of Santo Tomas. He sent her love notes in invisible ink.
• Outcome: Orang accepted other suitors after Rizal departed for Spain.

Leonor Rivera

• One True Love: First cousin and sweetheart for 11 years.
• Family Opposition: Rivera's family disapproved due to Rizal's political stance.
• Marriage to Henry Kipping: Forced marriage with strict conditions after family interference.

Consuelo Ortiga y Perez

• Poetic Exchange: Met in Madrid; Rizal dedicated a poem to her.
• Loyalty and Friendship: Rizal backed out to remain loyal to Leonor Rivera and protect friendship with Eduardo de Lete.

Osei-san (Seiko Usui)

• In Japan: Rizal met her while working at the Spanish embassy. Could have married her but chose patriotism.

Gertrude Beckett

• In London: Rizal met her while living with her family. She assisted him in artworks.
• Brief Relationship: Rizal left to avoid deepening the relationship.

Nelly Boustead

• Serious Intentions: Considered marrying her; religion was a barrier as she wanted him to convert to Protestantism.

Suzanne Jacoby

• In Brussels: Lived in her family’s boarding house; she was emotionally affected by his departure.

Josephine Bracken

• Final Love: Rizal’s last romantic involvement; faced family suspicion and political challenges.
• Live-in Relationship: Could not marry due to Rizal's refusal to retract political stance.
• After Rizal’s Death: She later remarried and lived a modest life until her death in Hong Kong.

Discussion Points

• Role of Religion in Relationships: Rizal’s romance with Nelly Boustead was hindered by religious differences.
• Impact of Political Beliefs: Rizal’s political stance affected his personal relationships, especially with Leonor Rivera and Josephine Bracken.

Conclusion

• Jose Rizal’s romantic life was complex and intertwined with his political and social ideals.
• His relationships reflect the challenges of balancing personal desires with nationalistic duties.