Books & Literature

So, more than a hundred years ago, Filipino fairs had friar figurines and talking heads. Hardly an ideal paring, but would certainly have been quite the amusement, if only they had some popcorn and soda.   Chapter 16: The Tribulations of a Chinese The Chinese Quiroga, who hopes to open a consulate for his nation, hosts a dinner for important people from the church, … [Read more...] about El Filibusterismo Chapter Summaries 16-20

Oh, to be young and tormented by school again. Although for entirely different reasons, I must have been Placido at one time or another, more despondent than jubilant in the hallowed halls of the academe. Chapter 11: Los Baños The Captain-General is on a working vacation in Los Baños. With him are some friars,  Don Custodio, Ben Zayb and Simoun. Among matters … [Read more...] about El Filibusterismo Chapter Summaries 11-15

So much of the past comes to the fore here, and it isn’t always pleasant for the living, especially when specters begin to loom over earthly affairs.   Chapter 6: Basilio Basilio steals out of the house at midnight and heads to the old wood previously owned by the Ibarras, and now belonging to Capitan Tiago. He visits his mother’s grave by the balete[1] tree … [Read more...] about El Filibusterismo Chapter Summaries 6-10

Thirteen years have passed since the events of Noli Me Tangere. At the opening of El Filibusterismo, we are greeted by old faces and introduced to new ones, and one seemingly new one. Chapter 1: On the Upper Deck The steamer Tabo[1] makes its way up the Pasig river one December morning. On its upper deck is Dona Victorina, traveling in search of her husband Don … [Read more...] about El Filibusterismo Chapter Summaries 1-5