Final Answer:
As a person living in the time of Rizal and having read the novel Noli Me Tangere, I might be inclined to defend the novel. The reason for this would be the novel's powerful portrayal of the social issues and injustices prevalent during that period, which served as a catalyst for inspiring social change and sparking the Philippine Revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Noli Me Tangere, written by Jose Rizal, is a seminal work that exposed the oppressive conditions under Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. If I were a contemporary reader, I might defend the novel because it courageously addressed the abuses and corruption of the ruling class. Rizal's work played a crucial role in awakening national consciousness and fostering a sense of identity among Filipinos.
Defending the novel would align with the spirit of advocating for social justice and reform, which were key themes in Rizal's writings. Noli Me Tangere served as a tool for exposing the harsh realities of the time and inspiring a collective call for change.