MINIATURES

   Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez (1849-1928) Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez, a Spanish Jesuit, held a special place in Rizal's heart as his favorite teacher at Ateneo, where the priest taught Literature. It was under Fr. Sanchez's guidance that the young Rizal delved into the treasures of Greek and Latin Classics. The priest's encouragement led Rizal to hone his literary talents, engaging in the crafting of essays and poetry. The relationship between mentor and student was characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Father Sanchez even staunchly defended Rizal's work, 'Noli Me Tangere.' However, in a letter to Blumentritt dated May 1890, Rizal shared a nuanced description of the priest: "Father Sanchez is a keen observer, albeit somewhat pessimistic, often inclined to view the darker aspects of life. During our school days, he was often playfully referred to as a 'dark spirit,' and students affectionately nicknamed him 'Paniki,' a...

Adelbert von Chamisso (1781-1883) Perhaps one exciting traveler who visited the Philippines in the 19th Century was ADELBERT VON CHAMISSO (1781-1838). A German scientist (botanist) of French ancestry, Chamisso traveled around the world with the Russian ship "Rurik" which  docked in Manila Bay in1817. He then made an exploration trip to the Taal volcano and the Cavite/Laguna area. Chamisso is also a figure in 19th Century German Literature. One of his famous poems, " Frauenliebe und-leben " was set into music by Romantic Period composer Robert Schumann . Ferdinand Blumentritt, in one of his letters to our national hero José Rizal mentioned Chamisso and his travels to the Philippines. Blumentritt Letter to Rizal (Excerpt)                                                                     ...