Noli Me Tangere

***Noli Me Tangere*** (Latin for ***"Touch me not"***) is a novel originally written in the Spanish language by Philippine writer and national hero Jose Rizal. It was published in 1887 at the Berliner Buchdruckerei-Aktiengesellschaft in Berlin, German Empire, with partial funding from Máximo Viola, one of Rizal's close friends. In the modern Philippines, *Noli Me Tangere* is a high school-level educational requirement as mandated by Republic Act No. 1425, or the Rizal Law.

In *Maria Clara At Ibarra*, Maria Clara Infantes is sent to the world of *Noli Me Tangere* by her college professor, Mr. Jose R. Torres, where she witnesses the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines firsthand.

## Background

"Noli Me Tangere" is a novel written by Filipino national hero, Dr. José Rizal. It was published in 1887 and is considered one of the most important literary works in the Philippines. The title "Noli Me Tangere" is Latin for "Touch Me Not" or "Don't Touch Me," taken from the Bible.

The background of "Noli Me Tangere" is deeply rooted in the historical and social context of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. Here are key aspects of its background:

1. Spanish Colonialism: During the 16th to 19th centuries, the Philippines was under Spanish colonial rule. Spain's control over the archipelago had a profound impact on the political, social, and cultural aspects of Filipino society. "Noli Me Tangere" explores the injustices, abuses, and oppressive system imposed by Spanish authorities on the Filipino people.
2. Enlightenment and Reform Movements: The late 19th century saw the rise of Enlightenment ideals and reform movements across the world. In Europe and other colonies, these movements sought to challenge the existing social and political structures. Dr. José Rizal, the author of "Noli Me Tangere," was inspired by these movements and their ideas of liberty, equality, and justice.
3. Rizal's Experiences: Dr. José Rizal, a prominent Filipino nationalist and reformist, drew inspiration from his own experiences and observations while studying and living in Europe. He witnessed the injustices suffered by his fellow countrymen under Spanish colonial rule and sought to expose these issues through his writing.
4. Satirical Critique: "Noli Me Tangere" serves as a scathing critique of Spanish colonial society in the Philippines. Rizal uses satire, symbolism, and vivid storytelling to expose the abuses of power, corruption, social inequality, and religious hypocrisy prevalent at the time. The novel sheds light on the harsh realities faced by Filipinos and calls for social and political reforms.
5. Impact and Nationalism: "Noli Me Tangere" played a crucial role in awakening Filipino national consciousness and sparking the movement for independence from Spanish colonial rule. The novel's depiction of the struggles faced by Filipinos and its call for social change resonated with the growing nationalist sentiments of the time.

The background of "Noli Me Tangere" reflects the turbulent period of Spanish colonialism in the Philippines and the efforts of Filipino intellectuals and reformists to expose the injustices and fight for change. The novel remains a powerful testament to the quest for national identity, social justice, and the preservation of Filipino cultural heritage.