Jose Rizal and the "Sturm und Drang"

 

"Sturm und Drang" was an 18th-century German literary and artistic movement, serving as the precursor to the broader Romantic Movement that emerged in 19th-century Europe. Rizal's early education introduced him to readings on Graeco-Roman literature, Spanish classics, and French authors like Dumas. However, once he arrived in Europe, his literary horizons expanded significantly. He referenced literary figures such as Heinrich Heine, Friedrich Schiller, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in his writings—authors associated with the German Sturm und Drang movement.

In "Crisostomo Ibarra," Rizal created a character deeply rooted in the "Sturm und Drang" mold. Ibarra, a young and naive individual, possessed a belief in the power of reason and rationalism. He embarked on a mission to convey his ideas and ambitious plans to his homeland. Ibarra epitomized the mestizo figure, a product of the Age of Enlightenment and the sophisticated Asian response to liberal ideas emanating from Europe. His eventual alienation from colonial society, his transition toward anarchy, and his emotional pleas for human emancipation on his deathbed aligned him with the themes and characters of Sturm und Drang.

In the "Noli," Pilosopo Tasyo discussed a human condition untouched by civilization, religion, and governmental institutions. The act of organizing and establishing a society inadvertently gave rise to an ignorant and exploited class, confining human potential within limits. This sentiment mirrors Rousseauan ideas. Notably, Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) of Geneva is considered the prophet of the Sturm und Drang movement.

"Sturm und Drang" (Storm and Stress) encapsulated the turmoil and tribulations prevalent in the literary themes of the 1760s German creative period. This movement sought a language that could convey both raw and highly emotional experiences, exploring the boundaries of rationality and venturing into the unknown. It was from this exploration that the concept of individuality emerged as paramount.

From the "Fili," Simoun's response to Padre Florentino regarding the poison he consumed is as follows: "It is futile! There is no remedy whatsoever! What do you expect me to do? Before the stroke of eight... alive or dead... dead, certainly, but alive, no!"

Now quoting this stanza from Rizal's swan song:

"Dream of my life, my living and burning desire,

All hail! cries the soul that is now to take flight;

All hail! And sweet it is for thee to expire ;

To die for thy sake, that thou mayst aspire;

And sleep in thy bosom eternity's long night."

The language of turmoil and tribulation -- Rizal's Sturm und Drang.