José Rizal
Biography
José Rizal (1861–1896) was a Filipino nationalist, novelist, poet, and polymath, regarded as the national hero of the Philippines. Born in Calamba, Laguna, he studied medicine in Manila and Madrid. His two novels, Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891), exposed the corruption of Spanish colonial rule and the Catholic friars in the Philippines, inspiring the Philippine independence movement. Written in Spanish, these novels are considered the founding works of Filipino literature. Rizal was executed by the Spanish colonial government at age 35, becoming a martyr for Philippine independence.
Common themes in José Rizal's work
Philippine literature
A recurring theme throughout José Rizal's writing.
Anti-colonialism
A recurring theme throughout José Rizal's writing.
Spanish colonial rule
A recurring theme throughout José Rizal's writing.
National hero
A recurring theme throughout José Rizal's writing.
Books
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Why José Rizal is still read today
Rizal’s novels are foundational texts of Philippine national identity and anti-colonial literature. They are required reading in Philippine schools and have been translated into dozens of languages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was José Rizal?
José Rizal (1861–1896) was a Filipino novelist and national hero whose novels inspired the Philippine independence movement. He was executed by Spain at age 35.
What are his major works?
Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. Both are available free on TextStack.
Why is he the Philippine national hero?
His novels exposed colonial oppression and inspired the independence movement. His execution made him a martyr for Filipino freedom.
Where can I read Rizal free?
TextStack offers both of Rizal’s novels to read free online.
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