Noli Me Tángere (Touch Me Not)

Father Dámaso’s speech to the congregation in Chapter 31 is the antithesis to Tasio’s comments to Ibarra in Chapter 25. Unlike Tasio, Dámaso reads prepared words and does not speak extemporaneously on the subject at hand. He argues in favor of more church involvement in the town’s governing, not less. He also openly challenges the authority of the ensign and military, indicating that the cross is more powerful than the gun. Speaking of Christian saints, Dámaso says, “Yes, my dear ensign, more valiant and powerful, and with no more rifle than a wooden cross they boldly triumphed over the eternal bandits of that shadowy world and over all of Lucifer’s attendants” (203). He does not frame the cross as a symbol of peace, but rather, one of oppression. His sermon is not uplifting, and the congregation barely understands what he says other than the accusation that they are all sinners who must seek redemption. As the speech wears on, Dámaso begins to lose their interest. His arguments are largely based on self-interest and tradition rather than the reason employed by Tasio.

Ibarra’s enlightenment and Dámaso’s more medieval theology come to a head at the former’s dinner party. Dámaso is an uninvited guest but not turned away—an act of courtesy that is not repaid by the friar. Instead, he insults Ibarra. Despite his courtesy in the moment, Ibarra has acted against the status quo by not inviting Dámaso. Dámaso’s spite is more a product of sensing Ibarra’s disrespect of his authority than an act of petty jealousy. As a way of putting Ibarra back in his place, Dámaso brings up the death of Don Rafael. Ibarra shows restraint, which once again begs the question of who represents virtue in the town. The church believes it has mortal authority, but the friars’ actions call into question whether or not moral authority should be granted to those who do not earn it. When Dámaso insults Don Rafael, Ibarra reaches his limit and threatens to kill him. Dámaso has succeeded in affecting Ibarra’s reputation.