Let's be honest, most of us know José Rizal from history class or from his famous novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. But this play is something else. Written in 1880, it's like a literary time capsule from his student days.

The Story

The entire play is set on the banks of the Pasig River during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Leonido, a young Filipino boy, is chosen to lead a procession. Before it begins, he's confronted by Satan, who appears disguised as a wise man. What follows is a long dialogue—a true debate. Satan doesn't attack with fire and brimstone; he uses clever words. He mocks the Spanish-influenced religious festivities as empty ritual. He questions the value of faith in the face of suffering and suggests that science and reason are the real paths to freedom. Leonido, representing youthful piety and nascent national pride, pushes back. He argues for a pure, sincere faith and connects devotion to the Virgin Mary with a love for his homeland. The climax isn't a physical fight, but the moment Leonido's unwavering faith forces Satan to vanish, allowing the joyful procession to proceed.

Why You Should Read It

This play is a blueprint. You can see Rizal working out his ideas. The conflict between blind colonial tradition and enlightened reason is right there. Satan's arguments often sound like the critiques Rizal would later level against the Spanish friars. It's amazing to see a 19-year-old using the Devil as a mouthpiece to question authority. Leonido isn't a complex character, but his steadfastness is powerful. He represents the hope that a new generation, armed with both faith and learning, could resist corruption. Reading this feels personal. You're not just reading a play; you're peeking at the homework of a future hero.

Final Verdict

This isn't for someone looking for a fast-paced plot. It's a talky, philosophical piece. But if you're curious about Rizal's intellectual journey, it's essential. It's perfect for history buffs who want to go beyond the textbooks, for students of Philippine literature, or for any reader who loves seeing the early, raw versions of a great writer's ideas. Think of it as the fascinating first sketch for the masterpiece that was to come.