CHAPTER 7: PARIS TO BERLIN (1885-1887)

Good morning/afternoon everyone, today we delve into a pivotal chapter of Jose Rizal's
life: his European sojourn in Paris and Berlin (1885-1887). We'll explore why he left the
Philippines, his pursuit of knowledge, and how these experiences shaped the
revolutionary hero we know today.
Let's rewind a bit. In Madrid, Rizal completed his medical degree, fueled by a personal
tragedy: his mother's failing eyesight. Driven by filial love and a thirst for knowledge, he
set his sights on Europe, the medical Mecca of the era. Ophthalmology became his
chosen field, his scalpel a beacon of hope for his mother's future.
Paris, the City of Lights, welcomed Rizal with open arms. He immersed himself in his
studies, working as an assistant to renowned oculists, honing his skills with dedication.
But learning wasn't confined to classrooms. He devoured French literature, engaged in
lively debates, and broadened his cultural horizons. Paris became a melting pot,
shaping his political thought and igniting his passion for social reform.
Moving to Berlin, the bustling capital of a unified Germany, Rizal continued his medical
quest. He wasn't just a diligent student; he was a recognized researcher, publishing a
paper on eye diseases in the prestigious "Archiv für Augenheilkunde." His intellect and
expertise impressed renowned scientists like Dr. Feodor Jagor and Dr. Rudolf Virchow,
solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the scientific community.
But Berlin wasn't just about academia. Rizal forged meaningful friendships with
prominent personalities, engaging in insightful discussions about history, politics, and
philosophy. He observed European society with a keen eye, noting both its
advancements and injustices. These observations fueled his growing disillusionment
with Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines and his burgeoning dream of a reformed
nation.
Rizal's European sojourn wasn't just about personal growth; it was a cornerstone in his
transformation into a national hero. He returned to the Philippines not just as a skilled
ophthalmologist, but as a man awakened by knowledge, injustice, and a burning desire
for change. His experiences informed his writings, like the searing critique in "Noli Me
Tangere," and fueled his fight for social justice.
Jose Rizal's Parisian and Berliner chapters were not just about mastering medicine;
they were about mastering his destiny. He returned home, not just with a doctor's bag,
but with a revolutionary spirit, ready to illuminate the path towards a brighter future for
his beloved Philippines.
MAXIMO VIOLA – who gives necessary funds to publish the novel NOLI ME TANGERE
Dr. Louis de Weckert (1852-1906)- leading French ophthalmologist wherein Rizal
worked as an assistant from November 1885 to February 1886.
Trinidad Pardo de Tavera (1857-1925): A physician, linguist, and scholar, Trinidad was a
leading figure in the Ilustrado movement, advocating for reforms within the Spanish colonial
system. He served as the director of the National Library and contributed significantly to the
study of Philippine languages and history.

Felix Pardo de Tavera (1857-1914): A lawyer and journalist, Felix was a vocal critic of
Spanish colonialism and a champion of Philippine independence. He co-founded the
newspaper La Solidaridad and actively participated in political movements advocating
for reform.

Paz Pardo de Tavera (1857-1920): Paz, the sister of Trinidad and Felix, married the renowned
painter Juan Luna in 1886. This union further solidified the familial ties between the Pardo de
Taveras and the artistic circle.
Juan Luna y Novicio is considered one of the greatest painters in Philippine history. His
achievements as a classical painter in the 1880's quickly elevated him to the top circles of
European art, and for the first time brought respect to Filipino artists.

Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo y Padilla was a Filipino artist, recognised as one of the great
Filipino painters of the late 19th century, and is significant in Philippine history for having
been known and inspired by members of the Philippine reformist movement that
included Jose Rizal, Marcelo del Pilar, Mariano Ponce ...

"Solfeggio" is a term from music theory. It refers to the teaching of tones and notes through ear
training and with the help of vocal exercises. Even today, Solfeggio is still used in music lessons
and in sound therapy.

oice culture primarily refers to the methodology adopted to train or control the voice to
sing effectively. Many musicologists and voice experts have accepted it as science.

Alin Mang Lahi”(Any Race) - talk about the quest for freedom from oppression by foreign invaders, and
the willingness to fight battles to restore freedom for one's countrymen.

Otto Becker (1828–1890) was an academic from whom Rizal learned the basics of
ophthalmological examination and diagnosis. In Heidelberg Dr. Rizal attended the fifth
centenary of the university on August 6, 1886. Three days later he left Heidelberg for
Berlin.
What is the meaning of forget-me-not?
Forget-Me-Nots: The meaning & symbolism - Scarlett Jewellery
true love
The Symbolic Meaning of Forget Me Not Flowers
While traditionally this flower represents remembrance, they also carry several other
meanings including true love, devotion, and royalty and are also associated with
Alzheimer's and Alaska.

"A las Flores de Heidelberg" (To the Flowers of Heidelberg) is a poem by Jose Rizal written
during his stay in Heidelberg, Germany, from February to April 1886. It reflects his complex
emotions and thoughts while studying abroad, away from his homeland, the Philippines.