Summary
Highlights
Rizal's novel, 'Noli Me Tángere,' causes a significant stir. Filipinos express admiration and hope, seeing it as a voice against Spanish oppression, while Spanish friars and officials denounce it as subversive and an attack on the Church and government.
Rizal learns of his mother's blindness and decides to return to the Philippines to cure her. His return is met with joy by his family, especially his mother and Leonor, who eagerly await his arrival.
Rizal successfully treats his mother's blindness, bringing immense happiness and gratitude to his family. Meanwhile, the Spanish authorities, particularly the Governor-General, become increasingly aware of his influential and controversial writings, leading to security concerns and potential persecution.
Leonor's parents, fearing for their family's safety due to Rizal's growing notoriety and the Spanish authorities' crackdown, forbid her from seeing him. This creates a heartbreaking conflict between Leonor's love for Rizal and her parents' concern for their well-being.
Governor-General Terrero summons Rizal, expressing his intent to read Rizal's novel personally to determine if it is indeed subversive. He assigns a guard, Jose de Andrada, to Rizal, highlighting the precarious situation Rizal is in due to the strong reactions to his work.
Due to the escalating threats and pressure from authorities, Rizal is compelled to leave Calamba. His loved ones express their unwavering support, despite the dangers they face for being associated with him, emphasizing the sacrifices made for their country's cause.