Introduction: Why Germany?

Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero, was not only a brilliant writer and advocate for reforms but also a dedicated scholar who traveled extensively to learn and grow. Among his most significant journeys was his time spent in Germany. His stay there, spanning from 1886 to 1887, was a period of intense academic pursuit, personal hardship, and profound literary creation. Understanding Rizal’s motivations for going to Germany and what he hoped to achieve is crucial to appreciating this vital chapter in his life and its impact on Philippine history.

After studying medicine in Madrid and Paris, Rizal decided to go to Germany primarily to specialize in ophthalmology. He had a deeply personal reason for this: he wanted to cure his mother’s deteriorating eyesight. German universities, particularly those in Heidelberg and Berlin, were renowned centers for medical research and practice, especially in the field of ophthalmology. Rizal saw Germany as the ideal place to acquire the advanced knowledge and skills needed to help his mother and serve his countrymen.

Beyond his medical goals, Rizal also had intellectual and political aspirations. He wanted to immerse himself in the liberal intellectual atmosphere of German universities, away from the stifling colonial environment and the strict Spanish control in the Philippines. He was eager to learn about different cultures, observe the administrative systems of a progressive European nation, and gain insights that could benefit his cause for reforms in his homeland. His time in Germany would prove to be a crucible where his ideas were tested, his skills sharpened, and his most famous work brought to life.

Arrival and Early Days: Heidelberg’s Charm

Rizal arrived in Heidelberg in February 1886. This picturesque city, famous for its ancient university and romantic castle ruins, became his first significant stop in Germany. He chose Heidelberg because of its esteemed Eye Clinic, headed by Dr. Otto Becker, a leading ophthalmologist of the time.

Settling In and Daily Life

Life in Heidelberg was initially challenging but fulfilling. Rizal needed to adapt to the German language, which he was learning, and the local customs. He lived frugally, often in simple boarding houses or with families. He quickly immersed himself in his studies and the local culture. He found lodging in various places, including the house of a kind Protestant pastor, Karl Ullmer, and his family, in the nearby village of Wilhemsfeld. This stay provided him with a peaceful environment conducive to both study and writing.

His days were typically structured around his academic and personal projects. He would spend time at the Eye Clinic, observing Dr. Becker’s methods and assisting in some cases. He also attended lectures at the university. In his free time, he explored the city, walked along the Neckar River, and appreciated the beauty of the German countryside. He marveled at the freedom of thought and expression he observed compared to the Philippines and Spain.

Academic Pursuits in Heidelberg

Rizal diligently pursued his specialization in ophthalmology under Dr. Becker. He spent several months at the university eye hospital, gaining practical experience and theoretical knowledge. His goal was not just to cure his mother but also to establish a clinic in the Philippines to help others suffering from eye ailments. His dedication to his medical studies was unwavering, showing his commitment to practical contributions alongside his political ideals.

Beyond medicine, Rizal continued his linguistic studies, focusing on German. He also delved into German literature and history, broadening his intellectual horizons. He was particularly interested in the works of German philosophers and scientists, absorbing ideas that would later influence his own writings and worldview. His time in Heidelberg was a period of quiet but intense preparation, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Across Germany: Leipzig and Berlin

After his fruitful period in Heidelberg, Rizal moved to other parts of Germany, each contributing uniquely to his development.

Leipzig: History and Anthropology

In August 1886, Rizal traveled to Leipzig. This city was known for its vibrant intellectual scene and publishing industry. While he continued some studies, his focus here seemed to shift towards other academic interests, particularly history and anthropology. He attended lectures at the University of Leipzig, including those by Professor Friedrich Ratzel, a renowned geographer and ethnologist.

His studies in Leipzig exposed him to different perspectives on race, culture, and national identity, which were crucial in understanding the complex situation in the Philippines. He was also interested in the city’s publishing capabilities, which would become highly relevant later.

Berlin: The Scientific Hub

Rizal’s most extended stay in Germany was in Berlin, where he arrived in November 1886. Berlin was the capital of the German Empire and a major scientific and intellectual center. Here, Rizal aimed to continue his ophthalmological studies under more prominent specialists and engage with the city’s learned societies.

Advanced Medical Training in Berlin

In Berlin, Rizal worked at the clinic of Dr. Karl Ernst Schweigger, another distinguished German ophthalmologist. He gained further practical experience and deepened his knowledge of eye diseases and their treatment. His dedication to mastering this field is a testament to his practical and compassionate nature – he didn’t just advocate for his country’s future; he wanted to contribute tangible skills.

Engagement with German Intellectuals

Berlin offered Rizal unparalleled opportunities to interact with leading scholars of his time. He became a member of the Ethnological Society of Berlin and the Geographical Society of Berlin. He delivered a scholarly paper in German before the Ethnological Society, titled “Tagalische Verskunst” (Tagalog Metrical Art), showcasing his deep understanding of Philippine culture and linguistics to a European audience. This was a significant achievement, demonstrating his intellectual prowess and his commitment to elevating Philippine scholarship.

He corresponded and met with prominent figures like Rudolf Virchow, the famous pathologist and anthropologist, and his son Hans Virchow. He also interacted with Feodor Jagor, the German scientist who had traveled to the Philippines and whose book, “Travels in the Philippines,” Rizal admired and from which he drew inspiration.

Life in Germany: Observations and Challenges

Living in Germany provided Rizal with valuable observations and presented significant challenges, shaping his perspective and hardening his resolve.

Cultural Observations

Rizal was fascinated by German society and culture. He noted the diligence, discipline, and intellectual curiosity of the German people. He observed their educational system, their advancements in science and technology, and their relatively liberal social environment compared to the Philippines under Spanish rule.

“The German is methodical, hardworking, earnest, sincere, and fond of simple home life.” – Rizal’s description of Germans, reflecting his admiration for their qualities.

He appreciated the emphasis on education and research in German universities. He also saw a society where merit and knowledge were valued, contrasting sharply with the system of patronage and racial discrimination prevalent in the Philippines. These observations reinforced his belief in the necessity of education and enlightenment for his countrymen.

Financial Struggles

Despite his intellectual pursuits, Rizal faced considerable financial difficulties during his stay in Germany, particularly in Berlin. His allowance from his family and friends was often irregular and insufficient. He had to live very frugally, sometimes even skipping meals.

These financial constraints were a constant source of worry. He relied on support from his family and fellow Filipino expatriates. His personal letters from this period often mention his financial woes, highlighting the sacrifices he made to pursue his studies and his writing.

This period of hardship underscored his determination. Despite the difficulties, he remained focused on his goals – completing his medical specialization and, most importantly, finishing his novel.

The Crucible of Creation: Writing Noli Me Tángere

Perhaps the most significant achievement of Rizal’s time in Germany was the completion and publication of his groundbreaking novel, Noli Me Tángere. He had started writing it earlier in Madrid and Paris, but a significant portion, including its final chapters and editing, was done in Germany.

Motivation and Purpose

Rizal was motivated by a deep desire to expose the injustices, corruption, and abuses of the Spanish colonial regime and the friars in the Philippines. He wanted to awaken his countrymen to the harsh realities of their situation and inspire them to seek reforms. He saw the novel as a means to “lift the veil” from the suffering of the Filipino people.

Writing the Noli was a difficult and emotionally taxing process. He poured his observations, frustrations, and hopes into the book. He drew inspiration from various sources, including Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin, which exposed the horrors of slavery in the United States. He envisioned his novel serving a similar purpose for the Philippines.

The Writing Process in Germany

Rizal dedicated himself to finishing the novel while balancing his medical studies and other intellectual activities. He spent long hours writing, often late into the night, despite his financial worries and the cold German weather.

“I finished the Noli Me Tángere in Berlin, at the beginning of 1887… I had intended to publish it in Madrid, but could not raise the money. I returned to Berlin, penniless, and almost starved… After much suffering, I finally found a printer…” – Rizal’s recollection of the challenges in publishing the novel.

His time in Germany, with its environment of academic freedom and critical thinking, provided a suitable backdrop for refining his critique of colonial society. He completed the final revisions and prepared the manuscript for printing in Berlin.

Publication in Berlin (1887)

Publishing the Noli was another major hurdle. Rizal faced severe financial constraints. He considered burning the manuscript at one point due to despair. However, help came from a loyal friend, Dr. Maximo Viola, who arrived in Berlin and offered to lend him the money needed for printing.

With Viola’s financial assistance, Rizal found a printing press in Berlin, Berliner Buchdruckrei-Actien-Gesellschaft, and production began in February 1887. The printing cost was relatively low in Berlin compared to other European cities. The first edition consisted of 2,000 copies.

The publication of Noli Me Tángere in March 1887 was a landmark event. It was a powerful indictment of the Spanish colonial system and became a catalyst for the Philippine reform movement and later the revolution. Completing and publishing this crucial work in Germany cemented his time there as indispensable to his mission.

Key Figures and Interactions

Rizal’s stay in Germany was enriched by his interactions with notable individuals who recognized his intellect and supported his endeavors.

German Scholars and Scientists

As mentioned, Rizal connected with prominent German academics. His interactions with figures like Rudolf Virchow, Hans Virchow, and Feodor Jagor were significant. They provided him with intellectual stimulation, access to academic societies, and validation of his scholarly abilities.

He also met and corresponded with other intellectuals interested in the Philippines and Malay languages, such as Dr. Adolf Bastian, a leading ethnologist. These connections were vital for sharing knowledge about the Philippines and gaining a European perspective on his country’s history and culture.

Fellow Filipinos and European Friends

Rizal was not entirely alone. He connected with other Filipino expatriates in Europe, including Maximo Viola, who played a crucial role in publishing the Noli. He also maintained correspondence with friends like Ferdinand Blumentritt, an Austrian scholar, although they would only meet face-to-face *after* Rizal left Germany (in Leitmeritz, now Litoměřice in the Czech Republic). His friendship with Blumentritt, however, blossomed during this period through letters, discussing everything from linguistics to the political situation in the Philippines.

His ability to forge these connections highlights his amiable nature and his skill in building networks of support for his cause.

The Impact of Germany on Rizal’s Thought

Rizal’s year in Germany had a profound impact on his intellectual development and his approach to the Philippine problem.

Exposure to Liberalism and Science

Germany in the late 19th century was a hotbed of scientific research and intellectual liberalism. Rizal was exposed to ideas of rationalism, secularism, and the scientific method. This environment contrasted sharply with the dominance of religious authority and traditionalism in the Philippines under Spanish rule.

He witnessed firsthand the progress achieved in a nation that valued education, science, and critical inquiry. This strengthened his conviction that similar progress was possible for the Philippines if freed from ignorance and oppression.

Development of National Consciousness

Living abroad, including in Germany, allowed Rizal to view his homeland from a distance, gain perspective, and solidify his sense of national identity. Engaging with foreign scholars and presenting his work on Tagalog culture reinforced his pride in his Filipino heritage.

He observed how other nations functioned and developed, which fueled his vision for a progressive and independent Philippines. The comparative perspective gained in Germany was invaluable in shaping his ideas for reform.

Reinforcement of Reformist Stance

The injustices he portrayed in Noli Me Tángere were vividly informed by his experiences and observations both in the Philippines and in Europe. While Germany itself did not suffer from the same colonial issues, the intellectual freedom and emphasis on truth and reason he encountered there solidified his belief that exposing the truth about the Philippines was the most powerful tool for change.

His time of struggle and creation in Germany reinforced his commitment to peaceful reform through enlightenment and education, rather than violent revolution at that point.

Departure from Germany and Legacy

In May 1887, after the successful publication of Noli Me Tángere, Rizal left Berlin. He traveled through other parts of Europe with Maximo Viola before eventually returning to the Philippines in August 1887, after almost six years abroad.

Reasons for Leaving

His primary reasons for leaving Germany included the successful completion of his novel and the desire to return home to attend to his mother’s eyes, using the skills he had acquired. He also wished to see how the Noli would be received in the Philippines and to continue his work there.

The Enduring Legacy of His German Stay

Rizal’s period in Germany, though relatively short, was arguably one of the most impactful of his life. It was here that:

• He completed his specialization in ophthalmology, gaining a practical skill he would use to help his family and countrymen.
• He engaged with leading European scholars, gaining recognition for his intellectual abilities and expanding his knowledge base.
• He observed a progressive, liberal society that served as a model for what the Philippines could potentially become.
• Crucially, he finished, edited, and published Noli Me Tángere, the novel that ignited Filipino national consciousness and remains one of the most important books in Philippine history.

The Noli, born from his struggles and inspired by his observations in Germany and elsewhere, became his most powerful weapon in the fight for reforms. His German journey was not just a personal quest for knowledge; it was an essential phase in his preparation to become the leading figure of the Philippine reform movement.