Noli Me Tangere and Agrarian Conflict Overview

Noli Me Tangere Controversy

• Release and Initial Reaction

  • Release Date: July 3, 1887, with only 20 copies.

  • Rizal's Arrival: Returned to Manila on August 6, 1887, amidst controversy regarding the book.

  • Impact: The novel exposed societal ills and criticized corrupt friars, leading to harassment from Spanish authorities.

  • Common Saying: "Batu-bato sa langit, ang tamaan huwag magalit" (A metaphor implying that criticism should not be taken personally).

• Supporters vs. Detractors

  • Supporters: Notable figures included Antonio Luna, Graciano Lopez Jaena, Antonio Ma. Regidor, etc.

  • Detractors: Critics included Fr. Salvador Font, Fr. Jose Rodrigues, Vicente Barrantes, and others, highlighting the divided opinion about Rizal's work.

  • Government Response: Rizal was summoned to Malacanang on August 9, 1887, by Governor-General Emilio Terrero regarding the controversy.

• Meeting with Governor-General

  • Discussion Points: Rizal provided clarifications about the themes and messages of his novel.

  • Governor-General's Request: Terrero asked for a copy of the book for himself; however, the copy sent by Rizal did not reach him.

• Symbolism of Cockfighting

  • Significance: A means of expressing frustrations against Spanish colonial rule.

  • Color Symbolism:

  • Red Cock: Originally represented dominance, later turned to symbolize the oppressor.

  • White Cock: Represented the underdog and was symbolized as the superior bet in the novel.

  • Power Dynamics: Cockfighting depicted the struggle between colonizers (rulers) and the natives (ruled).

  • Emotion in Arena: Victories of underdogs brought extreme joy, showcasing the desire for justice and freedom.

• Continued Criticism

  • Perception of Rebellion: Critics associated Rizal with rebellion due to the novel's content.

  • University of Santo Tomas Evaluation: A critical committee called Noli Me Tangere scandalous and heretical.

  • Censorship Decision: On December 29, 1887, the Permanent Commission on Censorship endorsed the prohibition of the novel based on the committee’s findings.

Agrarian Conflict

• Friars' Control of Land

  • Colonization led to friars owning most agricultural land, resulting in power abuse particularly by Dominican priests.

• Investigation Ordered

  • Governor-General Terrero initiated an investigation into land conflicts affecting tenants in Calamba.

• Tenant Grievances

  • Tenants, assisted by Rizal, voiced grievances against Dominican friars, notably regarding unjust rent increases.

  • Issues included:

  • Increased rents without justification based on harvest quality.

  • Lack of receipts for collected rent, highlighting corruption and exploitation.

• Opposition by Don Francisco

  • Don Francisco (Rizal's father) strongly opposed the unreasonable rent hikes, illustrating the broader resistance against colonial injustices.