How Dr. Jose Rizal’s Choice of Language Helped in Developing the Message of His Poems and Novels

Introduction to Dr. Jose Rizal and His Literary Legacy

Dr. Jose Rizal is considered one of the most significant literary figures in Philippine history. As a polymath, author, and national hero of the Philippines, Rizal’s contributions extend beyond literature. He utilized his understanding of language to serve a greater political and cultural purpose, particularly through his most famous works, the novels Noli Me Tange and El Filibusterismo. This article explores how the choice of language in these works played a pivotal role in driving his message forward and inspiring his fellow countrymen.

T pprapliquas of Language: A Critical Analysis

The poem mentioned at the beginning, “What ON EARTH is the point of doing a course where other people do all your work for you What will you have learnt by the time that you receive you meaningless qualification NOTHING!,” highlights the importance of personal effort and the inherent value in self-reliance. It serves as a critique of the university system and a call for individual initiative. This sentiment resonates with Rizal’s own beliefs and educational philosophies, which were shaped by his experiences and observations.

Language as a Tool for National Identity

For a long time, educated Filipinos wrote in Spanish, the language of their conquerors, the Spanish colonial rulers. However, Rizal recognized that this choice reinforced the cultural dominance of the Spanish. By opting to write in Tagalog, the native language of his people, he aimed to invoke a sense of cultural identity and pride. This strategic decision was more than just a linguistic choice; it was a political and cultural assertion. Rizal’s decision to communicate in Tagalog in his works Noli Me Tange and El Filibusterismo was a deliberate attempt to galvanize the Filipino people and foster a sense of unity and resistance against the colonial regime.

Art and Propaganda: The Impact of Rizal's Literary Works

Noli Me Tange and El Filibusterismo serve not only as powerful literary works but also as vehicles for social and political commentary. Through his narratives, Rizal provided a stark critique of Spanish colonialism and the social injustices prevalent in the Philippines. The use of Tagalog in these works allowed him to directly connect with the native Filipinos, bypassing the barriers of Spanish. This made the message of resistance and cultural resurgence more accessible and relatable.

Legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal

Dr. Jose Rizal’s use of Tagalog in his writings was a significant act of defiance and resistance. It underscored the importance of cultural identity and the power of language as a tool for change. His works are still studied and celebrated today, not only for their literary merit but also for the profound impact they had on the national consciousness and the struggle for independence.

Conclusion: The Enduring Influence of Tagalog in the Philippines

The choice of language by Dr. Jose Rizal in his literary works was a masterful maneuver that elevated the status of Tagalog and fostered a sense of national identity. His legacy continues to be celebrated and studied, reminding us of the power of words to shape culture and inspire change. Today, Tagalog remains a vital part of the Philippine identity, and the works of Rizal continue to resonate with the Filipino people.

Keywords: Dr. Jose Rizal, Noli Me Tange, El Filibusterismo, Tagalog, Spanish.