Résumé
Au Pays des Moines (translated as Noli Me Tangere, meaning "Touch Me Not") is a novel by Filipino nationalist José Rizal, originally published in 1887 and translated into French by Henri Lucas and Ramón Sempau in 1899.
Set in the Philippines under Spanish colonial rule, it follows the story of Crisóstomo Ibarra, a young Filipino educated in Europe, who returns to his homeland with ideals of reform and progress.
Through Ibarra’s experiences, Rizal exposes the corruption, abuse, and hypocrisy of the Spanish colonial government and the Catholic clergy, particularly the friars, who wield immense power over the Filipino people.
The novel critiques social injustices, class disparities, and the oppressive influence of the Church, while advocating for reform and awakening national consciousness.
It is a pivotal work in the Philippine struggle for independence, reflecting Rizal’s call for justice and liberty.