RIZAL 101
ASSIGNMENT 4

Name: Course/Year: Date:
Essay. Be responsive to the question. 5 points each

1. Why was Jose the only one who used the surname Rizal?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. What is “freemasonry” and why did Rizal join in it?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Why Rizal’s departure for Europe was kept a secret?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. What were Rizal’s reasons for writing the “Noli”?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Why was Jose the only one who used the surname Rizal?
Jose Rizal was the only one in his family to adopt the surname “Rizal” as a means of distinguishing himself and asserting his identity. The name “Rizal,” which means “green field” or “new pasture,” was chosen to symbolize his aspirations for reform and progress in the Philippines. Additionally, during the Spanish colonial period, many Filipinos were forced to adopt Spanish surnames, and Rizal’s choice reflected his desire to break away from the traditional naming conventions and to establish a unique identity that would be associated with his reformist ideals.

What is “freemasonry” and why did Rizal join it?
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that promotes moral and ethical development, philanthropy, and the pursuit of knowledge. It is characterized by its secretive nature and the use of symbols and rituals. Jose Rizal joined Freemasonry as he believed it aligned with his ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Through Freemasonry, Rizal sought to connect with like-minded individuals who were also advocating for social reforms and the betterment of society. His involvement in Freemasonry provided him with a platform to promote his ideas and to work towards the liberation of the Filipino people from colonial oppression.

Why was Rizal’s departure for Europe kept a secret?
Rizal’s departure for Europe was kept a secret primarily to protect him from the scrutiny and potential repercussions of the Spanish authorities. At the time, Rizal was already under suspicion for his reformist ideas and writings, which were seen as a threat to the colonial government. By keeping his departure discreet, Rizal aimed to avoid arrest and to continue his education and advocacy for reform without interference. This secrecy allowed him to gather knowledge and support for his cause while minimizing the risk of being silenced by the authorities.

What were Rizal’s reasons for writing the “Noli”?
Jose Rizal wrote “Noli Me Tangere” (Touch Me Not) to expose the social injustices and corruption prevalent in Philippine society under Spanish rule. He aimed to awaken the consciousness of his fellow Filipinos and to inspire them to seek reform and change. The novel served as a critique of the colonial government, the Catholic Church, and the social conditions of the time. Rizal believed that literature could be a powerful tool for social change, and through “Noli,” he sought to encourage his readers to reflect on their situation and to take action towards achieving freedom and equality.