Overview
This lecture covers Jose Rizal's life and activities during his years abroad, focusing on his studies, struggles, writings, relationships, and efforts for Philippine reform, ending with his plans to return to Manila in 1892.
Rizal's Secret Departure and Journey to Europe
- Rizal secretly left the Philippines on May 3, 1882, supported by his brother Paciano and a few friends.
- Main goal was to study in Europe and also fulfill a secret mission for the Philippines.
- Arrived in Barcelona on June 16, 1882, then moved to Madrid for studies.
Studies and Early Activities in Spain
- Enrolled in medicine and philosophy at Universidad Central de Madrid; also took art classes and learned languages.
- Joined Circulo Hispano-Filipino, a student organization advocating for Filipino rights.
- Faced financial difficulties due to family’s declining fortunes; survived on Paciano’s allowance.
Writings and Political Involvement
- Wrote for Diariong Tagalog under pseudonym "Laong Laan"; first essay was "El Amor Patrio."
- Stopped writing politically charged articles after "El Amor Patrio" due to family concerns.
- Gained fame after his 1884 speech at a banquet for Filipino artists, sparking controversy.
Specialization and European Travels
- Moved to Paris in 1885 to specialize in ophthalmology, then to Germany for further study.
- Worked with Dr. Louis de Wecker (Paris) and Dr. Otto Becker (Germany).
- Befriended Ferdinand Blumentritt, exchanging letters and cultural knowledge.
Major Works and Further Hardships
- Translated European works into Tagalog, including "William Tell" and Andersen’s fairy tales.
- Struggled with poverty in Berlin; with friend Maximo Viola's help, published "Noli Me Tangere" in 1887.
Return to the Philippines and Repercussions
- Returned to the Philippines in August 1887; faced hostility from friars and local officials due to his novel.
- Received threats and was considered dangerous; protected by family and authorities.
Propaganda Movement and European Life
- The Propaganda Movement aimed for Philippine assimilation as a Spanish province and expulsion of friars.
- Rizal traveled through Hong Kong, Japan (where he met O-Sei-San), and the US before settling in London to research Philippine history.
Continued Advocacy and Setbacks
- Received news of persecution of supporters and family eviction from Calamba due to friar conflicts.
- Finished "El Filibusterismo" and continued contributing to La Solidaridad.
Internal Conflicts and Later Years Abroad
- Experienced conflict with Marcelo H. del Pilar and other Filipinos in Spain; refused leadership of Madrid group.
- Practiced medicine in Hong Kong, reunited with family, and sought to help evicted Calamba tenants settle in North Borneo.
Preparations for Return to Manila
- Wrote articles calling for justice for Calamba tenants and explaining decision to return home.
- Agreed to meet with Governor-General Despujol to discuss the Borneo settlement.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Ilustrado — educated Filipino belonging to the elite class, often studied abroad.
- Propaganda Movement — campaign by Filipino expatriates for reforms and equal rights under Spanish rule.
- Licentiate — degree that allowed practice of medicine in Europe.
- Noli Me Tangere — Rizal’s first novel exposing abuses of Spanish colonials.
- El Filibusterismo — Rizal’s second novel, continuing themes of reform and revolution.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review Rizal’s speeches and writings, especially "El Amor Patrio," "Noli Me Tangere," and "El Filibusterismo."
- Prepare for discussion on Rizal’s death in the next lecture.