Rizal\'s First Voyage to Europe

Rizal boarded the SS Salvadora when he left the Philippines for Europe in 1882. This journey marked a significant turning point in his life, as it allowed him to gain exposure to new ideas and cultures that would later influence his writings and his role in the Philippine reform movement. The SS Salvadora was a steamship that played a crucial role in facilitating travel during that era, highlighting the importance of maritime connections in the spread of knowledge and revolutionary thoughts.

While waiting for classes to commence in Spain, Rizal composed "Amor Patrio," a significant work that expressed his deep love for the Philippines and called for national pride among Filipinos. This article was published in Diariong Tagalog, a newspaper aimed at Filipino readers, which helped spread Rizal's ideas about patriotism and the importance of national identity during a time of colonial oppression. Through this piece, Rizal sought to inspire his fellow countrymen to recognize their heritage and advocate for reform.

Rizal's masonic name "Dimasalang" translates to "Untouchable" in English, symbolizing his commitment to the principles of Freemasonry, which include liberty, equality, and fraternity. This name reflected his desire to fight against oppression and injustice in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. By adopting this name, Rizal aligned himself with the ideals of enlightenment and reform, which were central to the Masonic movement, and emphasized his role as a champion of Filipino rights and national identity.

Rizal did indeed enroll in two courses at the Universidad Central de Madrid on November 31, 1882. This period marked a significant phase in his education, where he pursued studies in medicine and philosophy, reflecting his commitment to personal development and his desire to contribute to societal reform in the Philippines. His enrollment in these courses laid the foundation for his future endeavors as a nationalist and reformist, ultimately influencing his writings and activism against colonial rule.

Rizal and Blumentritt's personal relationship began through correspondence, highlighting Rizal's appreciation for Blumentritt's intellect and interests. By sending a letter along with the book "Aritmetica," Rizal initiated a scholarly exchange that laid the foundation for their friendship. This act demonstrated Rizal's respect for Blumentritt's academic pursuits and established a bond based on mutual admiration for knowledge, which would grow into a significant intellectual partnership over time. Their correspondence became a vital part of their relationship, fostering discussions on various topics, including nationalism and education.

In Paris, José Rizal collaborated with Louis de Weckertt, who was a prominent figure in the field of medicine. This role as an assistant allowed Rizal to gain valuable experience and further his knowledge, which complemented his reformist activities. During this time, he also maintained close relationships with fellow Filipino reformists like Juan Luna and Felix Hidalgo, who were influential in advocating for Philippine independence. Their interactions fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among those striving for reform in the Philippines.

During his time in Paris and Germany, Rizal was actively involved in various intellectual and cultural pursuits. Working as an assistant to Dr. Otto Becker in Heidelberg allowed him to deepen his medical knowledge. Attending lectures by Professor Wilhelm Kuehne contributed to his education and understanding of contemporary ideas. Additionally, posing for Juan Luna's paintings for free reflects his engagement with the arts and support for fellow Filipino artists. These activities highlight Rizal's commitment to personal development and his connection to the broader Filipino community abroad.