03/11/2025
"El Filibusterismo" (subtitled “Ang Paghahari ng Kasakiman” or “The Reign of Greed” in English) is the second novel written by Dr. José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. It is the sequel to Noli Me Tangere and was first published in 1891 in Ghent, Belgium.
Here’s a summary and key information about it 👇
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📘 Basic Information
Author: Dr. José Rizal
Published: 1891
Language: Spanish
Sequel to: Noli Me Tangere
Genre: Political novel, historical fiction, social commentary
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🧠 Summary
The story takes place 13 years after Noli Me Tangere. The main character, Crisóstomo Ibarra, returns to the Philippines under a new identity — Simoun, a wealthy jeweler who is secretly plotting a revolution against the corrupt Spanish government.
Simoun plans to use his wealth and influence to corrupt officials and encourage social unrest, hoping to destroy the government from within. Unlike in Noli Me Tangere, where Ibarra sought peaceful reform, El Filibusterismo reflects Rizal’s growing disillusionment with peaceful change and emphasizes revenge and revolution.
However, his plan ultimately fails, and Simoun dies after confessing his sins to Padre Florentino, who throws Simoun’s jewels into the sea — symbolizing that true freedom cannot be bought with greed and violence.
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🔑 Major Characters
Simoun (Crisóstomo Ibarra): The main character; a jeweler seeking revenge against the Spanish authorities.
Basilio: A young medical student whose family suffered in Noli Me Tangere; represents the new generation’s hope.
Isagani: An idealistic student and poet; symbolizes youthful nationalism and idealism.
Padre Florentino: A good priest who symbolizes moral integrity and the Filipino conscience.
Kabesang Tales: A farmer whose land was taken by friars; represents the oppressed Filipinos.
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⚖️ Themes
Revenge vs. Reform
Corruption and Greed
Colonial Oppression
Social Injustice
The Power of Education and the Youth
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🕯️ Moral / Message
Rizal wanted to show that violence and revenge cannot bring true freedom — change must come from education, integrity, and unity among Filipinos.
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