Here's a breakdown of the main opposition and their arguments:
1. Spanish Authorities:
* Fear of Revolt: The novel's depiction of the abuses and injustices inflicted by Spanish officials fueled fears of rebellion and unrest.
* Threat to Spanish Supremacy: The novel's portrayal of Filipinos as oppressed and deserving of freedom challenged the legitimacy of Spanish colonial rule.
* Censorship: The Spanish authorities attempted to suppress the novel by banning its publication and distribution.
2. The Catholic Church:
* Criticism of Clergy: The novel exposed the corruption and hypocrisy of some members of the clergy, particularly the friars, who held considerable power in the Philippines.
* Religious Doctrine: Some believed that the novel's depiction of Filipino society and spirituality undermined the church's influence and teachings.
* Propaganda and Excommunication: The church used its authority to discredit Rizal and the novel, even threatening excommunication for those who read it.
3. Filipino Elite:
* Threat to Social Order: Some members of the Filipino elite, who benefited from their collaboration with the Spanish, saw the novel as a threat to their status and privilege.
* Fear of Upheaval: The novel's call for social and political reform was perceived as a potential cause of widespread instability.
4. Intellectuals and Critics:
* Literary Style: Some argued that the novel lacked literary merit or that it was too sentimental and melodramatic.
* Historical Accuracy: Others criticized Rizal's depiction of historical events and characters, claiming that he exaggerated or distorted the truth.
5. "Propaganda Movement" and Rizal's Exile:
* Advocacy for Reform: While not direct attacks, the "Propaganda Movement," a group of Filipino intellectuals and activists who advocated for reforms within the Spanish colonial system, drew inspiration from "Noli Me Tangere" and its themes of social injustice and national identity.
* Rizal's Exile: Rizal's exile in Dapitan, imposed by the Spanish authorities for his perceived subversive activities, was a direct consequence of the novel's impact and its influence on the growing Filipino nationalist sentiment.
In summary, "Noli Me Tangere" was not attacked by individuals in a personal sense, but rather by the system of Spanish colonialism, the Catholic Church, and elements of Filipino society who feared the social and political implications of the novel's message.
It's important to note that while the novel faced criticism and opposition, it also sparked a profound sense of national consciousness and fueled the movement for Filipino independence. It remains a seminal work of Philippine literature and a powerful testament to the fight for freedom and self-determination.