Austrian Academic Discovers Mislabeled 1887 Letter from Jose Rizal at Vienna City Library

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In an intriguing turn of events, Dr Johann Stockinger, a noted Austrian academic and the Vice President of the Austro-Philippine Society, uncovered a mislabeled letter written by Dr Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, at the Vienna City Library. The discovery, made in September 2023, shines a light on Rizal’s historical correspondence and highlights the intricate web of relationships he maintained with international figures during his time. This article explores the significance of this discovery, the historical context surrounding the letter, and the implications for understanding Rizal’s connections with Austria.

The Significant Discovery

Context of the Letter

The letter in question was addressed to Mr Johannes Nordmann, an Austrian writer and propagandist. Interestingly, it had been miscataloged under the name “Jose Kisz” due to the library staff’s inability to decipher Rizal’s signature properly. This misidentification could have rendered this piece of historical correspondence lost to scholars and the public alike. Dr Stockinger’s keen eye and expertise allowed him to immediately identify the letter as belonging to Rizal upon reviewing it.

Importance of the Letter:

The letter reveals Rizal’s intellectual engagement with European thinkers.
It is a primary source for understanding Rizal’s thoughts during his time in Europe.

The Library’s Mislabelling:

Miscommunication and misreading of historical documents can lead to significant oversights.
The incident underlines the importance of thorough cataloguing and the role of experts in historical scholarship.

The Lecture: “Reliving Rizal: Friendship with Austria’s Johannes Nordmann”

On 24 January 2025, Dr Stockinger presented the findings during a public lecture effectively titled “Reliving Rizal: Friendship with Austria’s Johannes Nordmann.” Organized by the Philippine embassy in Vienna, the event provided an enriching platform to discuss the content of the letter and its broader implications.

Key Discussion Points:

Rizal analyses Nordmann’s work, “Spring Nights in Salamanca.”
The parallels are drawn between Nordmann’s narrative and Rizal’s own literary masterpiece, “Noli Me Tangere.”

Further Exploring Nordmann and Austria’s Historical Context:

The lecture delved into the relationship between Rizal and Nordmann within the socio-political climate of 1887.
Important figures and movements in Austrian society at the time were contextualized to better understand the subtleties in Rizal’s communication.

Rizal and Nordmann: A Bridge Between Cultures

Jose Rizal’s connection to Johannes Nordmann symbolizes a broader intercultural dialogue that took place during the late 19th century. While studying in Europe, Rizal interacted with various intellectuals who influenced his political ideologies and literary works.

The Role of Intellectual Exchange:

Letters and writings were vital for Rizal in shaping his views on freedom and justice.
Nordmann’s perspectives offered Rizal a window into Austrian thought and political conditions.

Accessing Rizal’s Literary Genius:

The correspondence between the two reflects Rizal’s deep engagement with the themes of autonomy and nationalism.
Such exchanges are essential for understanding Rizal’s motivation and his commitment to reform in the Philippines.

Conclusion: Reviving Historical Narratives

The revelation of Dr Jose Rizal’s letter to Johannes Nordmann and its subsequent unveiling at the Vienna City Library are crucial reminders of the intricate connections between national heroes and international intellectual communities. Dr Stockinger’s findings not only restore Rizal’s voice to the historical record but also invite us to reassess the narratives surrounding his influence beyond the borders of the Philippines.

The letter’s mislabeling is a small yet significant testament to the ongoing relationship between history, academia, and culture. As scholars, educators, and enthusiasts continue to explore the past, discoveries like this illuminate the paths of intellectual discourse that have shaped our present. Dr. Jose Rizal’s legacy endures as a bridge between the Philippines and Austria, illustrating the timeless nature of friendship and the pursuit of knowledge.

Ambassador Evangelina A. Bernas thanked Mag. Gerhard Murauer of the Vienna City Library and the Austro-Philippine Society for co-organizing the public lecture, and the Filipino and Austrian audiences for their participation