Noli Me Tangere

''Noli Me Tangere'' by José Rizal is a novel written in the late 19th century. It serves as a critical commentary on the social and political issues faced by the Filipino people during the Spanish colonial period. The story introduces key characters, including Crisostomo Ibarra, a young Filipino who returns to the Philippines after studying abroad, only to confront the corruption and injustices perpetrated by the ruling authorities. The opening of ''Noli Me Tangere'' sets the scene at a dinner invitation hosted by Capitán Tiago in the town of Binundóc. The text explores the intricacies of social interactions among Filipino elites and the Spanish colonial authorities. Notable figures include priests and influential members of society, revealing the tensions between the colonized and the colonizers. Rizal uses this gathering to highlight the complexities of Filipino identity, culture, and the oppressive nature of colonial rule, making it clear that the social dynamics at play are symptomatic of deeper societal issues. This introduction effectively lays the groundwork for the exploration of these themes throughout the rest of the novel.