El Filibusterismo

by

José Rizal

Opium is a drug made from poppy seeds ground into a smokeable powder. Opium induces a sedated, euphoric effect and is highly addictive. The drug became widespread in Southeast Asia during the colonial period, as colonial powers produced it for export to China and elsewhere and used military force to prevent other countries from restricting the trade.
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Opium Term Timeline in El Filibusterismo

The timeline below shows where the term Opium appears in El Filibusterismo. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
2. Below Deck
Colonialism and Identity Theme Icon
Education and Freedom Theme Icon
Hypocrisy and Colonial Oppression Theme Icon
...of the ship to talk. Basilio explains how his patron, Captain Tiago, is addicted to opium and struggling to kick the habit thanks to Father Irene’s enabling. He explains that Father... (full context)
23. A Corpse
Colonialism and Identity Theme Icon
Education and Freedom Theme Icon
...alternates between cruelty and excessive kindness to Basilio, depend on his mood and dosage of opium. Basilio observes the irony that if he enabled Tiago’s habit he would both be treated... (full context)
Colonialism and Identity Theme Icon
Violence vs. Nonviolence Theme Icon
Education and Freedom Theme Icon
...Clara died that very afternoon—Tiago’s grief is what led him to latest enormous dose of opium. Simoun is completely distraught and leaves in a daze, leaving Basilio to pity him, reflecting... (full context)