Chapter 1: A Gathering

In late October, Don Santiago de los Santos (otherwise known as Capitan Tiago), hosted a dinner at his house on Anloague Street. The
descriptions of the house could be likened to the status of Philippine society under Spanish rule. Among the characters we meet are a Teniente
Guevara, Padre Sibyla (Dominican) and Padre Damaso (Franciscan). Padre Damaso spent 20 years as parish priest in San Diego. The angry
conversation between Padre Damaso and the soldier reveals that a good man, whose son was in Europe, died. His body was exhumed by the San
Diego parish priest and ordered buried elsewhere.
Some notes
• It is not yet clear why Capitan Tiago is hosting a dinner. It will be learned only in later chapters that the dinner is in honor of Juan
Crisostomo Ibarra, the novel's lead character, who is returning to the Philippines from Europe.
• It is almost All Souls' Day.
• Introduced in this chapter is Doña Victorina, a memorable and insufferable character of the Noli.
Questions and Answers
1. What undesirable traits of Filipinos were mentioned in this chapter? Attending parties even if not invited, extravagant parties
(because no one knew how many people were coming), the host does not get to eat dinner.
2. How did Rizal liken the Philippines to Capitan Tiago's house? The country, like the house, is open to all (Philippine hospitality). But
Filipinos are not interested in business or entrepreneurship, and have a hard time embracing new ideas (because of conservatism). Any
new endeavor is met with doubts from many sectors, but once success is achieved, everyone wants to share in the glory.
3. What is the significance of the argument between Padre Damaso and Teniente Guevara? This exemplifies the difficulty of uniting
Church and State. Take note of the assassination of Capitan Heneral Bustamante. History also tells of the bloody struggle for the Spanish
throne between the liberal supporters of Queen Cristina and the friar-supported Carlist movement.
4. What was the effect of this on Philippine government? Frequent changes in the Spanish monarchy translated to a high turnover of
Capitan Henerales in the Philippines. Given their short stint, these men in government took either advantage of their position by engaging
in corruption, or did not bother to govern well.
5. What was Padre Damaso mad about? He was upset about his being sent away from San Diego, where he served as parish priest for
20 years. He got angry at someone and branded him a heretic. When the "heretic" died, he was buried in the church (because Padre
Damaso was not around). When Padre Damaso returned, he ordered the body exhumed and buried in the Chinese cemetery. This unjust
act was reported to the Capitan Heneral by Teniente Guevara, and Padre Damaso was transferred out of San Diego.
Padre Damaso started to say something about letters being lost during his transfer, but he did not finish his sentence. Actually, these are
letters written to Padre Damaso by some...woman.

Chapter 2: Crisostomo Ibarra

We meet Juan Crisostomo Ibarra y Magsalin, the son of the late Don Rafael Ibarra (the man whose body was exhumed). Crisostomo gets confused
when Padre Damaso, the friar whom Crisostomo thought was a close friend of his deceased father, said that Don Rafael was never a close friend of
his. Fortunately, the soldier had kinder words to say about Don Rafael. Another good friend of Don Rafael, Capitan Tinong of Tondo, invited
Crisostomo for tomorrow's lunch. Crisostomo declined, saying he was leaving for San Diego the following day.
An attendant announced that dinner was served.
Some Notes
• Padre Sibyla, Padre Damaso, and Teniente Guevara were surprised to see Crisostomo Ibarra accompanied by Capitan Tiago. This
means they did not know the purpose of the dinner.
• Ibarra spent seven years in Europe.
• Ibarra's name shows that his mother is a Filipina (Magsalin).
Questions and Answers
1. Why did Ibarra think that his father was a close friend of Padre Damaso? When Ibarra was a child until he left for Europe, Padre
Damaso would often join the Ibarras for lunch and dinner. Ibarra often heard his father, Don Rafael, conversing amiably with Padre
Damaso.
2. Why did Padre Damaso deny that Don Rafael was his friend? It turns out that the heretic who died in jail, and whose body was
ordered exhumed by Padre Damaso is Don Rafael. What happened to the relationship between Padre Damaso and Don Rafael during
the seven years that Crisostomo Ibarra was away will be revealed in later chapters.

Chapter 03: The Dinner

Capitan Tiago ordered tinola served. It was a dish which Ibarra had not eaten in a long time because of his extended stay in Europe. Tinola
contains chicken, white squash and broth. Table conversation covered where Ibarra went (Northern Europe, Germany and Russian Poland), as well
as newsworthy items learned by Ibarra: "...the prosperity or the misery of a people is in direct proportion to its liberties or concerns, and
consequently to the sacrifices or selfishness of its ancestors."
Padre Damaso belittled Ibarra's trips abroad saying that these were useless because what Ibarra learned could be also known without having to
travel extensively.
Instead of arguing with the friar, Ibarra left after graciously excusing himself from the crowd. Capitan Tiago tried to stop him, saying that Maria Clara
was coming soon, but Ibarra still left. Teniente Guevara followed him.
One of the guests (a red-haired writer named Laruja) present will later write an article about how tinola can ruin a feast and why indios should not
be allowed to read or travel outside the Philippines.
Some Notes
• Padre Damaso is no longer the parish priest of San Diego (town of Capitan Tiago in their province). However, he was still invited to the
dinner because he was the confessor of the late wife of Capitan Tiago.
• Maria Clara is the sweetheart of Crisostomo Ibarra.
Questions and Answers
1. Why did Ibarra say that his country has forgotten him?
For one year, he did not receive any news from the Philippines while he was in Europe. None of his acquaintances let him know that his
father had died.
2. How did Rizal show appreciation for the heritage of every country that he visited?
Like Ibarra, Rizal made it a point to study the history of a country before visiting it.
3. What was Rizal's point in introducing the red-haired writer in this chapter?
He wanted to point out that at that time, our history was being written by foreigners who had spent so little time in the country. An
example of this would be the historical account stating that Magellan discovered the Philippines in 1521. How could he have discovered it
when there were already Filipinos on the islands when Magellan arrived?
 4. Why were there many Filipinos who were not educated by their parents during the Spanish occupation?
The "indiyo" mothers were convinced by the friars that education was bad for the children.
5. What were the different types of people in society?
Peninsular - born in Spain; living in the Philippines
Filipino - Spaniards born in the Philippines
Indiyo - "Natives" born in the Philippines

Chapter 4: Heretic and Subversive

Ibarra walks the streets of Manila and notes how nothing has changed in the past seven years. He is approached by Teniente Guevarra and learns
for the first time about what happened to his father, Don Rafael. An illiterate Spanish tax collector hurt a young boy who was making fun of him.
Before he could inflict additional pain on the boy, Don Rafael intervened. In the process, the tax collector was pushed and he died after his head hit
a rock.
Don Rafael was jailed, people who used to openly respect him came out and denounced him, while Padre Damaso branded him a heretic for not
going to confession.
Teniente Guevarra tried to get Don Rafael out of jail, was chastised by others, but eventually succeeded in securing Don Rafael's release from
prison. However, Don Rafael died in jail.
Some Notes
• Teniente Guevarra does not know why Padre Damaso was angry at Don Rafael because long before the incident with the tax collector,
Don Rafael was no longer going to confession. Padre Damaso would often dine at the Ibarra residence. The rift appeared only after the
young Ibarra left for Europe.
• Don Pedro Eibarramendia was a spaniard who married a Filipina or Mestisa. They were the parents of Don Saturnino Ibarra who married
a woman from Manila. Don Saturnino is the father of Don Rafael Ibarra who married a Filipina surnamed Magsalin. Their child is
Crisostomo Ibarra (who can be said to be more Filipino than Spanish).
Questions and Answers
1. Why was Ibarra surprised to find out that his father died in jail? Before Ibarra left for Europe, his father, Don Rafael, was respected
by many people in their province (even by the friars and some important government officials). He could not accept how his father, a good
and just man, could end up in jail.
2. What did Teniente Guevarra mean by "one cannot be honest in the Philippines and not go to jail?" Due to corruption and
injustices committed by the government and the friars, any person of integrity would dare speak out. This was considered an act of
treason so these people were jailed for speaking against the government.
3. Accdg to Teniente Guevarra, although Don Rafael was admired and respected by many people, he still had enemies. Who were
they? They were a few evil spaniards and friars who were envious of Don Rafael's wealth. He was well-loved by the natives because of
the kindness he showed them. This, however, served to make the indios more aware of the evils of the other spaniards. Some people
were also mad at Don Rafael because of the wrongdoings of his grandfather.
4. What was held against Don Rafael?
o The murder of the spanish tax collector
o Heresy...no belief in God; no confession.
o Subversion...(1) speaking out against the friars and against govt, (2) reading El Correo de Ultramar, a radical newspaper, (3)
sending Ibarra to Swiss Germany, centers of free thought and protestantism, (4) picture of a Filipino priest (possible Father
Burgos), and (5) wearing a barong tagalog (attire of the indios because only spaniards were allowed to wear their shirts tucked
in).
He was found in the possession of a picture of a priest and How did Rizal show appreciation for the heritage of every country that he
visited? Like Ibarra, Rizal made it a point to study the history of a country before visiting it.

Chapter 5: A Star in the Dark Night

Ibarra asks to be brought to the Fonde de Lala hotel, where he fails to notice the noise and music coming from the house of Capitan Tiago (which
can be seen from Ibarra's hotel). He is bothered by thoughts or visions of his father, Don Rafael, suffering in jail and eventually dying there. In the
house of Capitan Tiago, people admire the beautiful Maria Clara. However, instead of Capitan Tiago beaming with pride, it is Padre Damaso who is
seen smiling like someone most fortunate.
In this chapter, Rizal introduces a young Franciscan friar, Padre Salvi, parish priest of the town of San Diego.
Some Notes
• It is possible that Padre Salvi arrived late, which explains why he was not able to participate in the grabbing of seats of honor at the
dinner table. It would help the reader to pay close attention to the way Rizal describes this friar.

Chapter 6: Capitan Tiago

Capitan Tiago and Dona Pia have long been without child. Padre Damaso advised them to hear mass at Ubando (or Obando, Bulacan). Soon after,
Dona Pia conceived, but ever since became depressed. She died after giving birth to a baby girl, Maria Clara, who was raised by her aunt, Tia
Isabel. Padre Damaso became the godfather of the child, while Crisostomo Ibarra became a childhood friend of Maria Clara.
Some Notes
• Rizal describes the many superstitious beliefs of the religious folk, as well as the corruption in the government which is made widespread
by people like Capitan Tiago.
• The full name of Capitan Tiago is Santiago de los Santos ("all of the saints") which is Rizal's way of hinting that he will use this character
when tackling issues of faith or religion.
• Rizal deliberately made unclear the circumstances surrounding Dona Pia's death, in order to heighten the reader's anticipation. The truth
is, Dona Pia died because she was extremely upset with giving birth to an illegitimate child; the child of Padre Damaso. Note the
superstitions related to "paglilihi" (the cravings of a pregnant woman which affect the physical appearance of her child):
o Dona Pia kept looking at icons of saints and of the Blessed Virgin Mary
o Godchildren look like their godfather or godmother
• Here are the characteristics of Capitan Tiago:
o Gets along with those in power
o Intelligent
o Obedient
o Skilled in business
• Capitan Tiago and Don Rafael agreed that their children (Maria Clara and Crisostomo Ibarra) will one day marry each other, and that both
fathers will join businesses for the benefit of their two children.
Questions and Answers
1. Why is Capitan Tiago considered to be in good terms with God? This derogatory statement refers to the fact that God does not
borrow money from Capitan Tiago. In addition, his wealth is used to give back to God in the form of masses, novenas, prayers,
indulgencias, expensive clothes for the wooden saints, and such. His actions served to enrich the friars.
2. Why does Rizal say that Capitan Tiago realizes that in the calendar, there are a lot of saints who are probably doing nothing in
heaven? There are far too many saints listed in the calendar (at least one saint per day). This belief stems from the perception that saints
are extremely jealous of other saints.
3. What is the meaning of the statement that Capitan Tiago realizes that in order to become a saint, one either cuts or is cut? Saint
Peter the Martyr was a saint who was hacked in the head by a pagan. Simon Peter (disciple of Jesus Christ) who was entrusted with the
key to heaven, also became a saint even if he cut the ear of Malko in the Garden of Gethsemane.
4. Why is Capitan Tiago on good terms with the government? From the highest official down to the lowest government servant is
treated the same way by Capitan Tiago. Capitan Tiago always bows, obeys, agrees, never argues, gives money, and does not read
publications from Europe (lest such writings free his mind and allow him to question the way things are in his country).
5. Why did Dona Pia talk about the fisherman (in Macbeth) who, after finding a great treasure, refuses to sing? A poor fisherman
who is happy spends his time singing joyous songs. Just like others, though, he dreams of becoming rich one day. When he is able to
find a treasure, he then discovers fear and soon loses his ability or desire to sing once again. This is similar to Dona Pia's situation where
her prime desire is to have a child. However, when she finally conceives, a depression envelops her all the way to her grave. From here
we can see that Rizal is familiar with Shakespeare.
6. Did Capitan Tiago and Don Rafael consult with Maria Clara and Crisostomo Ibarra regarding the arranged wedding plans as
agreed by the two fathers? No. This was the practice at that time. It just so happened that the two children were in love with one
another so they didn't mind the pre-arrangement.

Chapter 7: Idyll in an Azotea

Ibarra and Maria Clara get to speak privately in the azotea of Capitan Tiago's house. This is their first meeting after seven years. They exchanged
proof that each remembered the other one after all this time. When Maria Clara read the only letter Ibarra wrote to her, he suddenly remembered
his dead father. It was nearing All Souls Day so Ibarra excused himself and told Maria Clara that he will go to San Diego to take care of his father's
grave.
Some Notes
• A major portion of this chapter concerns the old letter of Ibarra to Maria Clara.
• The reader will note a different (if almost playful) side of Maria Clara, which belies the common perception that she is refined, prim and
proper.
• Capitan Tiago cannot really be considered as someone from San Diego because Maria Clara visits that town only during vacations.
Questions and Answers
1. How did Ibarra prove that he never, not even for an instant, ever forgot about Maria Clara? He said that the vow he made before
his mother's corpse that he will love Maria Clara and make her happy no matter what happens to him served as a shield or amulet which
helped him even while he was far away, in a land of numerous beautiful women.
2. And what did Maria Clara do to prove her own love for Ibarra? She recounted their childhood experiences (fights or otherwise). She
also said that even if she was punished severely after confessing in the confessional her love for the young man, she refused to ever
forget him. (This summary does not do justice to the actual text. Please read the book, ok?)
3. What other proofs did Ibarra display? He showed the old leaves which Maria Clara placed in his hat after they swam in the river (they
were with Ibarra's mother at that time) more than seven years ago.
4. And what did Maria Clara show in return? She got Ibarra's old letter (kept near her chest).
5. What did Ibarra place in his letter to Maria Clara? He clarified why his father (Don Rafael) urged him to study in Europe even though
Ibarra badly wanted to just stay in the Philippines with his father and his beloved.
6. And what reasons did Ibarra give for leaving the Philippines? Ibarra's father admonished him that, as a man, he had to think of the
future, his moral debt to his country, and to learn things that he cannot possibly learn while in the Philippines (Don Rafael had little faith in
the Philippine educational system).
7. Why is Capitan Tiago considered to be in good terms with God? This derogatory statement refers to the fact that God does not
borrow money from Capitan Tiago. In addition, his wealth is used to give back to God in the form of masses, novenas, prayers,
indulgencias, expensive clothes for the wooden saints, and such. His actions served to enrich the friars.
8. Why does Rizal say that Capitan Tiago realizes that in the calendar, there are a lot of saints who are probably doing nothing in
heaven? There are far too many saints listed in the calendar (at least one saint per day). This belief stems from the perception that saints
are extremely jealous of other saints.
9. What is the meaning of the statement that Capitan Tiago realizes that in order to become a saint, one either cuts or is cut? Saint
Peter the Martyr was a saint who was hacked in the head by a pagan. Simon Peter (disciple of Jesus Christ) who was entrusted with the
key to heaven, also became a saint even if he cut the ear of Malko in the Garden of Gethsemane.
10. Why is Capitan Tiago on good terms with the government? From the highest official down to the lowest government servant is
treated the same way by Capitan Tiago. Capitan Tiago always bows, obeys, agrees, never argues, gives money, and does not read
publications from Europe (lest such writings free his mind and allow him to question the way things are in his country).
11. Why did Dona Pia talk about the fisherman (in Macbeth) who, after finding a great treasure, refuses to sing? A poor fisherman
who is happy spends his time singing joyous songs. Just like others, though, he dreams of becoming rich one day. When he is able to
find a treasure, he then discovers fear and soon loses his ability or desire to sing once again. This is similar to Dona Pia's situation where
her prime desire is to have a child. However, when she finally conceives, a depression envelops her all the way to her grave. From here
we can see that Rizal is familiar with Shakespeare.
12. Did Capitan Tiago and Don Rafael consult with Maria Clara and Crisostomo Ibarra regarding the arranged wedding plans as
agreed by the two fathers? No. This was the practice at that time. It just so happened that the two children were in love with one
another so they didn't mind the pre-arrangement.

Chapter 08: Memories

After visiting Maria Clara, Ibarra proceeds to San Diego. Along the way, one thing is quite evident: After being away for seven years, Ibarra saw no
changes whatsoever.
Some Notes
 This chapter shows a country's lack of progress during those times. Rizal likens the "good Filipino" to the Barkas Bridge -- it is dilapidated
but continues to serve others, rises and falls at the whim of the Pasig river's tide, and sometimes gets destroyed by the river. At that time,
Filipinos continued to serve the oppressive government.
Questions and Answers
1. What did the old priest mean when he advised Ibarra: "Do not forget that if knowledge is the patrimony of humanity, it is
inheried only by those who have the heart"? Everyone has the opportunity to learn or be educated. However, studying is not easy --
you need perseverance, self-denial and much sacrifice. You need money for tuition and books, and you have to avoid giving into the
temptation of an easy life (parties, booze, gambling...you know, FUN stuff). As a result, only those who have the will and a keen desire to
learn will be able to finish their studies and achieve knowledge.
2. What lesson is Rizal trying to impart with the priest's: "I have tried to transmit to you what I have received from my teachers;
the riches I have endeavored to augment as much as I could, and I am passing it on to the following generation. You will do the
same with those who come after you, and you can triple it, for you are going to very rich countries"? In other words, this is the
responsibility of an effective and meaningful citizenry. A citizen should strive to become learned or to educate herself so that she can
contribute to the betterment or welfare of generations who will follow her.
3. Explain: "They come in search of gold; go to their country to look for that other gold which we lack. Remember, however, that
all that glitters is not gold." While the Spaniards are mining the gold in the Philippines, the Filipinos should go to Spain or to Europe
and study there in order to get the gold otherwise known as Knowledge. Note that the last saying admonishes Ibarra to discern which
learnings in Europe are valuable and which are worthless.
4. Who is this old priest? From his statement ...you can triple it, for you are going to very rich countries... look for that other gold which we
lack... we can guess that the priest is a Filipino who got educated in the Philippines. One can speculate that this priest refers to someone
like Padre Burgos who was executed in Bagumbayan (Take note of the line: That man had died in Bagumbayan [in reference to the old
priest]).
5. Explain: "No, despite everything, the country first; first the Philippines, Spain's daughter; first the Spanish nation! No, that
which is fated does not tarnish the Motherland. No!" Ibarra believes that the execution of the old priest was a tragedy and an insult to
good sense. His great love for mother country Spain, however, prevented the senseless death of the priest from detracting from the
dignity of Spain. While Ibarra loved the priest, and even if he owed the priest a lot because of the many lessons in life that he received, he
never allowed revolutionary feelings to surface because his love for Spain and the Philippines was greater.

Chapter 09: Some Country Matters

Ibarra sees Padre Damaso riding in his victoria, a low, light, four-wheeled carriage (with a foldable calash top, seating for two passengers and a
perched seat in front for the driver. See photo). Padre Damaso, on the other hand, sees Tia Isabel and Maria Clara (they were going to the convent
to get Maria Clara's things).
This chapter focuses on three major conversations between or among:
• Padre Damaso and Capitan Tiago (in Tiago's house/office)
• Padre Hernando Sibyla and an old, extremely sick Dominican (in Intramuros)
• Capitan Heneral and his men
Padre Damaso and Capitan Tiago
Padre Damaso does not want Maria Clara to marry Ibarra and is displeased with Capitan Tiago for not informing him of a marriage agreement
made with Don Rafael (Ibarra's father). It is unclear why Capitan Tiago chose not to consult with Padre Damaso about such an agreement in the
past. But, true to his form, Capitan Tiago obeys the priest and extinguishes the candle he previously ordered lit for Ibarra's safe journey to San
Diego (Ibarra's hometown).
(For those unfamiliar with this practice, a candle is usually lit and placed on an altar, sometimes in front of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Some prayers
are said for someone's safe journey, since there were bandits about and who knows what other dangers lurk at each bend. As long as the candle
remained lit, it was believed that the traveler was protected.)
The chapter ends with Tiago blowing out the candle and muttering that there is still time and the journey is long. (What a future father-in-law, eh?)
Padre Sibyla and the Very Sick, Old Dominican
We don't know what the old priest is sick of, but that's not the point of this chapter. Here we see the Ibarra is completely unaware that the priests
are plotting against him. Those Dominicans are deathly afraid of Ibarra because they know he--with his education--is not ignorant of his situation.
Also, Ibarra might later rise as a leader for the indios.
The Dominicans, knowing about the misfortune of Don Rafael and knowing character of Ibarra, already foresaw the brewing conflict between the
young man and Padre Damaso.
Nevertheless, the Dominicans were confident about controlling Ibarra, through Maria Clara and Capian Tiago. Or so thought the old priest.
Padre Sibyla sees Ibarra as someone with finesse (good breeding). Afterall, Ibarra was quite subtle in his verbal fight with Padre Damaso earlier.
Sibyla also considers Ibarra as an "obedient child" who will not fight outright with the friars.
The old Dominican mentioned that he prefers an open fight rather than the useless praise of his friends, which tends to make the priests soft and
unaware that they are starting to lose their hold on the people.
(So watch out when things seem to go too well for you. You'll never know... After all, whom the gods wish to destroy, they first make mad.)
Also, since the Spanish government is concerned with maintaining power over the Philippines, they will help the priests if ever the indios rise in
revolt. If there is no conflict, however, the government might not see the need for the Spanish priests, and will just rely on the Filipino priests to keep
the rest of the population timid.
Padre Sibyla worries, however, that the government might side with the indios. Remember that the Church and State are not really the best of
friends:
• The friars murdered Capitan Heneral Bustamante in Malacanan before.
• Capitan Heneral Ma. de la Torre was well-loved by the indios because he was just (and didn't always support the friars).
Realize that the Filipinos lacked two important things in their bid for political justice and economic freedom:
• Lack of country-wide unity. The people were geographically scattered by the Spaniards.
• No identified Leader.
Anyway, note Rizal's dig at the frailocracy when the priest uttered that God should have mercy on them (the priests).
Capitan Heneral and his men
The Capitan Heneral was aware of the insulting remarks made by Padre Damaso against him, because Laruja (the writer) told the Capitan
Heneral's adjutant about it. The story did not come from Teniente Guevara because it was beneath him to "snitch" on Padre Damaso.
(In the vernacular, he did not want to make "sipsip" to the Capitan Heneral.)
The Capitan Heneral revealed to his men that he was unhappy with the situation in the Philippines and that the country should be thrown into chaos
so that the priests can be kicked out, just as was done by the Europeans to the priests there.
However, reasoned the Capitan Heneral, since this was the fate of the Philippines, he decided to just close his eyes to the matter, just as his
predecessors did.

Chapter 10: The Town

This chapter describes the town of San Diego and the lineage of Crisostomo Ibarra (surprisingly, each generation bore only one child). We learn
that at that time, there was no such town called San Diego in the Philippines. We can assume, however, that the town is located near the shore of
Laguna Lake, because this is where the guardia civiles chased Ibarra and Elias when the former escaped from prison.
Note also that each town is initially taken care of by a Pilipino priest. Once the town prospers, the Spanish friars take over.
Rizal likens Philippine culture to a swaying, wooden bridge. Pinoys enjoy scenes of tragedy or misfortune. We tend to laugh at disabled people
(this was during Rizal's time and perhaps even up to today) -- the kids swimming in the lake laughed at an old woman who was having a hard time
crossing the bridge; they should've helped her instead. Rizal pointed it out in hopes that people would correct this kind of behavior. Did he
succeed?
Ibarra's ancestor, who first came to San Diego, had lived long in the Philippines. He was very fluent with the Tagalog language.
How the Ibarras acquired the forest in San Diego. The first Ibarra in San Diego gave cash, jewelry and clothes to those who claimed to own the
forest.
People, however, feared the forest. You know how forests are: cold, dark, eerie, strange sounds... and don't forget those malaria-bearing
mosquitoes.
A description of Don Saturnino. Spanish mestizo, probably the Fernando Jose type (hello there, Rosalinda fans!) He was very strict, but was also
hardworking. He helped contribute to San Diego's progress.
Don Saturnina's wife. We can't tell for sure if she was a Filipina from Manila, a Spanish mestiza, or a Spaniard born and raised in Manila. It's also
possible she was a native.
Geez, do people really care about Ibarra's lineage? Apparently so. Ibarra's ancestors had a mean streak, but their blood soon mixed with native
understanding, compassion and self-control.

Chapter 28: Nightfall

Summary
Manila newspapers talk about the good things Ibarra has done and urge people to emulate him. In an attempt to be like Ibarra, Capitan Tiago
planned to finance (all by himself) the building of a convent. Maria Clara asks permission to go out with her girlfriends, along with Ibarra. Capitan
Tiago asks her to come home early because Padre Damaso was coming to their house for an early dinner.
Capitan Tiago wanted Ibarra to settle his differences with Padre Damaso (supposedly over dinner), but Ibarra said that he was needed at his house
because he was expecting (hah!) a visitor.
Anyway, getting back to Maria Clara's "outing" with her friends, she was of course chaperoned by Tia Isabel. They also pass by the house of Sinang
(child of Capitan Basilio) to invite her out as well.
The group passes by the convent (Padre Damaso is there). They also see the house of the alferes. Sinang jokes that Padre Salvi should be the
husband of Doña Consolacion.
They see a leper (ketongin). Maria Clara, moved by compassion, gives the leper a locket (given by Capitan Tiago) which contains a religious relic
(agnos) -- a piece of wood from the boat which Jesus rode thousands of years ago.
The leper tearfully kisses the ground on which Maria Clara trod. Maria Clara also weeps a bit. She sees the insane Sisa walking around and Ibarra
promises to help Sisa. The chapter ends with the group returning home.
OTHER NOTES
The scene between Maria Clara and the leper will be brought up again in the El Filibusterismo. Basilio (in the El Fili) will cure that leper and will
receive, in payment, Maria Clara's locket. The El Fili reveals Rizal's belief that leprosy is NOT contagious (except in the case of very young children
with sensitive skin, as well as those with broken skin).
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
1. What can you say about Capitan Tiago's attempt to reconcile Ibarra and Padre Damaso?
It's pretty narrow-minded of him, naive even, to think that Ibarra would readily forget the way Padre Damaso desecrated Don Rafael's grave (not to
mention his life).
2. Where did Maria Clara get her ultra-demure ways?
Probably from the teachings at the convent. Rizal likened Maria Clara to a butterfly which, free from its chrysallis/cocoon, was lightly flitting about.
You see, Maria Clara was sort of locked up in the convent (cocoon), yet when she went outside those monastic walls, she was like a child again.
3. Rizal revealed what he thought of the courts:
Don Basilio mentioned that those who win in the courts end up losing their shirts. The same sentiment is expressed by Old Man Selo to Cabesang
Tales in the El Fili. It's probably no wonder Rizal did not take up law. I wouldn't be surprised if they also had nasty jokes about lawyers way back in
the late 1800s. ;-)
4. Why did Sinang stare in wonder at the lights around the church bells?
Padre Salvi, in an effort to control expenses, didn't usually turn on those lights. He made an exception since he knew that Maria Clara was in the
town of San Diego. Sheesh, a fraile who wanted to impress a woman...
5. Where did leprosy come from?
People thought the leper got the disease from his mother. Others supposed that the sickness came from being locked up in a cold jail cell.
6. What's the point of Maria Clara's: "There are people who aren't happy afterall."
It shows how sheltered Maria Clara's life has been -- stuck in the convent, or living in the opulent house of the Delos Santos family (Capitan Tiago).
Just like Ibarra, Maria Clara was a stranger in her own country (where up to today, a significant portion of the population is living below the poverty
line). Perhaps this is Rizal's dig at schools which fail to inculcate in her students a better sense of socio-civic consciousness.
Related Links
This chapter talks about a locket which Maria Clara gave to a leper. Inside that locket is a splinter of wood supposedly taken from the boat which
Jesus rode many years ago.

Chapter 35: The Luncheon

Ibarra returns to the school. On opposite ends of a long table sit Ibarra and the mayor. To the right of the young man sits Maria Clara; to his left, the
scribe. Also present are Capitan Tiago, the alferes, and the town captain. Capitan Tiago receives a telegram and learns that the Capitan Heneral
will proceed to the house of Capitan Tiago. Capitan Tiago leaves the luncheon and goes home immediately. The friars were hurt, but they did not
say anything. The alferes, mayor and town captain also received telegrams from the Capitan Heneral, who will arrive on the fourth.
People notice that Padre Damaso is not present. Talk turns to the sermon delivered by Padre Damaso, while Padre Salvi remains quiet and does
not contribute to the discussion.
Children are with their parents, and talk centers around careers: should one be a priest or a doctor?
As the luncheon comes to an end, Padre Damaso arrives. He sits in front of the dining table and criticizes the architecture which Ibarra is proud of.
Ibarra keeps quiet.
Padre Damaso then belittles the mestizos and indios in order to get at Ibarra. Again, Ibarra remains quiet.
Padre Damaso then talks about Ibarra's father, Don Rafael, and laughs at the way Don Rafael died in jail... He is unable to finish his sentence
because Ibarra leaps at Padre Damaso, hits him on the head (Padre Damaso falls), then grabs a knife and warns people to stay away.
Padre Damaso stands up and Ibarra grabs him while asking if there was anyone in the crowd who did not love their father, or who hated even the
memory of their dad. Ibarra turns to the friar and asks him if he does not hear the deafening silence.
Ibarra tells everyone present about the good things his father, Don Rafael, has done. He asks the crowd if Padre Damaso is justified in tarnishing
the memory of his father. The crowd remains silent. Ibarra raises the knife, Maria Clara stops him. Ibarra drops the knife and runs away.
Some Notes
• The Capitan Heneral is a Liberal.
Questions and Answers
 1. Why is the Capitan Heneral going to the house of Capitan Tiago? This will be revealed in the next chapter.
2. Why did the friars feel bad? Traditionally, a capitan heneral proceeds to the convent/church. In addition, Capitan Tiago is neither a
Spaniard nor a mestizo.
3. Who was the mayor referring to (dinner guest called Platon)? He was referring to the Capitan Heneral. Platon (Plato of Greece)
symbolizes Wisdom/Intellect.
4. Did Ibarra deliberately not invite Padre Damaso to the luncheon? Yes, this was deliberate because Ibarra was trying to avoid Padre
Damaso.
5. From the conversation between Padre Salvi and the mayor, what can we infer from the latter (mayor)? The Mayor is after money,
not the stature of his position or office. Hence, he is not interested in governing well, but in exploiting his position.
6. Why did Padre Salvi remain silent? We can only speculate:
o If he had any part in the failed assassination attempt on Ibarra, perhaps he was feeling depressed about the failure and was
secretly plotting yet another evil deed on the sweetheart of Maria Clara (whom Padre Salvi is really interested in).
o Or perhaps he was thinking about his being imprisoned in his friar's habit and duties, which is clearly outside the world of Maria
Clara.
7. What did Rizal say about the way Filipinos discipline their children especially when they are in front of others? Parents were very
domineering which explains why a lot of kids grew up meek and timid. As a result, inner talents could not surface because the children
were cowed into subservience by a parent's glare or pinch.
(No wonder some old parents ask their errant kids: "Hindi ka ba makuha sa isang tingin?" [Will you not get in line with just one look from
me?])
8. From the career discussion (should a child be a priest or a doctor), what can be said about the effectivity of schools? The
ignorance of parents has caused some of them to prevent their children from going to the school of teachers in San Diego. They realize,
however, that Ibarra's school will allow their children to become professionals one day.
9. Why did Padre Damaso come to the luncheon even if he was not invited? Here we can see the boorishness of the friar. He thinks
that there's nothing he cannot do. He came to publicly humiliate Ibarra. He knew that the moment Ibarra fights him, the powerful
frailocracy will be the collective enemy of Ibarra, and this will help separate Ibarra from Maria Clara.
10. What criticisms did Padre Damaso level at Ibarra?
o He laughed at the architecture of Ibarra's school.
o He criticized Ibarra for paying huge salaries to those who built the school.
o He belittled Ibarra as a mere mestisilyo who is looked down upon by Spaniards.
o He called Ibarra an indio who, after going to America to learn only a few things, has become proud and ostentatious.
11. And what did Ibarra do while he was being humiliated? Nothing. He just kept quiet.
12. What made Ibarra break his silence, hit the friar, and threaten to stab Padre Damaso? Padre Damaso's narration of how Don Rafael
(Ibarra's father) died in jail.
13. What did Ibarra mean when he said that he was avoiding Padre Damaso, God brought the friar to Ibarra, and therefore God
made a judgment? Eversince Ibarra found out that Padre Damaso had a hand in Don Rafael's imprisonment and death, he resolved not
to exact revenge, but to just avoid the friar. Even in church, Ibarra kept his mouth shut. This time, however, he did not invite Padre
Damaso to the luncheon and yet there was the friar, sullying the memory of Ibarra's father. Ibarra considered this a sign from God and a
confirmation that the friar was sent to Ibarra to be punished.
14. What can we say about the fact that from the many people present, it was only Maria Clara who stopped Ibarra from killing
Padre Damaso? This reveals that, contrary to the belief that Maria Clara is timid or shy, she is actually decisive and is capable of clear
thinking (even during times of crisis).

Chapter 36: The Comment

News about what Ibarra did to Padre Damaso quickly spreads. Some people said that Padre Damaso was already dead. Others gossiped that
Padre Damaso figured in a fistfight with a Spanish mestizo, one of two who were from Manila. Yet others, like Don Felipo, were praising Ibarra. On
the other hand, the town captain was criticizing Ibarra for his lack of self-control. Some mothers were crying at the thought that Ibarra's soul was
destined to go straight to hell. Other women, like Capitana Maria, praised Ibarra. And yet others were certain that Ibarra was going to be
excommunicated and also branded as a filibuster (filibustero).
Some Notes
• Rizal makes skillful use of dialogue to bring out the story in this chapter.
• Through dialogue, Rizal also highlights the silliness of some Filipinos due to the loss of their school, or due to the lack of interest in their
studies.
• Take note of Capitana Maria who is not like most old ladies.
Questions and Answers
1. What did the gossipers mean when they said (after they thought Padre Damaso was killed) that he did not do anything except
pay for a debt? It can be said that Padre Damaso, in effect, killed Don Rafael, and that Ibarra was just exacting revenge.
2. Is it true that the Spanish mestizo whom Padre Damaso had a fistfight with could not speak Tagalog? No, it's not. The mestizo
knows how to speak Tagalog. However, aside from being ashamed to admit that he was really a Tagalog (from San Pedro Makati)
because indios were looked down upon by the Spaniards, the Tagalog of Padre Damaso was terrible. As a result, the "mestizo" got angry
because he could distinguish between good and bad speech.
3. What did Rizal mean when he wrote that the student and the friar were made by God and the two boxed each other? He meant
that the boastfulness of the student and the excessiveness of Padre Damaso were meant to clash. Those two were made...for each
other. (If you miss the humor, don't feel too bad. Afterall, this was written more than a hundred years ago.)
4. How important to Rizal is public opinion? In the chapter, a student says that silence means consent. Don Felipo says that a country's
virtue or "lowlessness" can be determined by the country's "public opinion." He added further that they should remember the good things
done by Don Rafael, as well as the things being done by Ibarra. He implied that the country will take care of Ibarra.
The town captain, on the other hand, said that the frailocracy is always right. Don Felipo countered that such is the case because no one
dares disagree with the friars. Don Felipo suggested that Filipinos should give their own opinions more weight sometimes.
When the town captain said that Don Felipo will be alone in his crusade, Don Felipo explained that such a statement will remain true for
as long as fear and silence mean the same thing; for as long as people think only of themselves; and for as long as the lack of unity
continues to make a nation weak.
In this case, "public opinion" (kuru-kurong bayan) requires national unity.
 5. The town captain said that we must first take care of ourselves, before we care for others. What did Don Felipo say about this?
He said that true cowardice starts when one takes care of oneself too much, and ends in humiliation. He cited as an example the tribunal
meeting: Since the town captain wanted to protect himself too much, the town captain did not dare disagree with the friars and the
meeting was turned into a joke (or a mockery).
Whoever can do something to stop a crime, but did not do anything because he was afraid that he might be harmed, is still guilty of the
"sin of omission" (not doing what you had to do).
6. Why did one woman envy Ibarra's mom (who already passed away)? Because she died before she could be humiliated by what her
son did to a friar.
7. Which woman disagreed? Why? Capitana Maria disagreed with the envious woman saying that she will be proud of a son who defends
the name and honor of his father even though that father has long died.
8. What did Capitana Maria say when Hermana Rufa (elder Rufa) said that it is a grave sin for Ibarra to lay his hands on the sacred
friar? She said that a parent's memory is even more sacred, and that no one--not even the Pope himself--has the right to destroy the
memory of a father.
9. How did Rizal view the ability of friars to forgive the sins of the people? Rizal does not believe in this. Through Capitana Maria Rizal
says that only God--who tells us to give glory to our parents--can forgive Ibarra.
10. What other thoughts made Capitana Maria more admirable?
o She said that if ever Ibarra were excommunicated, she would still welcome him in her home. She will not give any value to the
excommunication issued by the friars.
o If she had a daughter, then she would want Ibarra to be her son-in-law because a good son will become a good father.
o Her view of kids: Children should strive to become better than their parents.
o She said that it is through education (especially outside the country) that the youth can ever hope to be like Ibarra. In the
Philippines, the only thing parents could teach their children is the cowardice of childhood--no responsibilities, ignorant,
subservient thoughts.
o When Capitana Tinay told Cap. Maria that she apparently did not really love her twins--because Maria gave birth only to allow
the twins to study in Europe, just like Ibarra, only to end up in jail or in the gallows (execution by hanging)--Cap. Maria answers
that it is precisely because she suffered while giving birth to the twins that she took care of them and educated them (in the
midst of their poverty), that proves how much she loves them.
o She also adds that each mother has her own way of loving her children: Some mothers love their kids for their own personal
reasons. Capitana Maria said she loves her kids for the benefit of the kids. This was taught to Capitana Maria by her deceased
husband.
o Here we see the influence of "Florante at Laura" (by Balagtas) on the writing style of Rizal when it comes to his views regarding
love and lazy / selfish parents. Some parents look at their kids as "property" or assets to serve the parents and their dreams
(i.e., some parents dictate what course/career their children will pursue...to benefit the parents and even if the child does not
really like to take that course in college).
o Hermana Rufa noted that Capitana Maria's thinking was all wrong, and began to invoke some saints (Santisima Rosario, S.
Francisco and Sta. Rita). Capitana Maria answered that she would rather be a good sister to people first before she will try to
be a good sister to saints.
o Perhaps Rizal was comparing Capitana Maria not to typical Filipina moms, but to the mothers of Sparta. She is also the
opposite of another mother, Sisa. Although both mothers undergo a lot of suffering, Maria's is justified while Sisa's is
considered blind sacrifice.
(Makes me wonder if Rizal ever had a bad experience with someone named Sisa... I wonder if Ambeth Ocampo has any notes on the
personal life of Rizal.)

Chapter 45: An Examination of Conscience

Padre Salvi heard the confession of Maria Clara. Doctor De Espadaña, on the other hand, continued giving Maria Clara marshmallow syrup and
boiled lichen. After an hour, Maria Clara felt better. Doña Victorina attributed the healing process to her doctor husband's medication. After Padre
Salvi heard Maria's confession (again), he left her room looking pale and sweaty. (It's not what you think, folks!)
Some Notes
• Maria Clara never knew her mother; her mom died soon after Maria Clara was born.
• De Espadaña thought his marshmallow and lichen cured Maria Clara. Padre Salvi believed it was (Catholic) confession that healed her.
It's possible Capitan Tiago attributes her well-being to his contributions to saints and holy relics.
• Maria Clara's fever left her because of the pills/medicines sent to her by Ibarra through the help of Sinang.
• In this chapter, Rizal criticizes several Catholic practices.
• The province then called Tayabas is now named Quezon.
• Read how Tia Isabel prepares Maria Clara for confession -- utterly hilarious. She goes through the list of the Ten Commandments and
notes how Maria Clara begins to weep.
Questions and Answers
1. Why did Padre Salvi cast a sideways glance at Capitan Tiago when the latter said that it was the transfer of Padre Damaso to
Tayabas that made Maria Clara ill because she loved Padre Damaso like or as if he were her father? Padre Salvi knew that Padre
Damaso really IS the father of Maria Clara.
2. What did Rizal note about Confession? (a) The friars made the people believe that Confession is more effective than medicine when it
comes to healing sick people; (b) Perhaps Rizal criticized this through Linares': "But Father... might she not think she is in danger of
death?" (The patient's health might deteriorate because she might think she was already being administered the Last Rites, or
something.)
3. What was Padre Salvi pale and all sweaty when he finished hearing Maria Clara's confession? To begin with, Padre Salvi is really
a pale person. He must have appeared more nervous because it was during this confession that he revealed to Maria Clara the true
identity of her father. (No, it wasn't Darth Vader; it was Padre Damaso). He stressed that this was a mortal sin.
Tia Isabel, on the other hand, thought that Padre Salvi looked that way because of what Maria Clara confessed to him.

Chapter 46: The Fugitives

Just as he told Ibarra, Elias goes to Tanauan Batangas to search for Capitan Pablo. He finds Pablo deep in the forest. Pablo has a head wound.
Elias invites him to live with him as father and son up in the north, but Pablo declines. Pablo cannot turn his away from the life of a fugitive. Elias
asks Pablo not to commit violent acts against the government before they first get the help of Ibarra. If after four days and the complaints of the
people are brought to the Capitan Heneral and still nothing happens, then Elias promised to join the rebel forces of Capitan Pablo.
Some Notes
 • The term "Pablo" used by those who have taken to the mountains and who are fighting the Spanish government is an allusion to Capitan
Pablo.
• Capitan Pablo and Elias have the same belief when it comes to exacting revenge -- do not involve the innocent.
Questions and Answers
1. How did Elias and Pablo meet? Pablo took care of Elias when he was in a state of shock six months ago. Elias was aimlessly
wandering here and there, not knowing how to seek vengeance for his twins, parents and ancestors.
2. Why did Pablo become a bandit? A priest raped his daughter. Although his two sons searched for the priest, Pablo did not think of
seeking revenge. Fearing a violent reaction from the two sons, the priest framed one of the boys and falsely accused him of theft in the
convent. The young boy was tortured and hung by his hair (I don't know exactly what this means; go use your imagination). The theft was
not proven and the priest was transferred to another province. The torturer got scared of the other boy because the accused died. The
torturer then got the guardia civil to beat up the surviving boy on the basis of a missing cedula or residence certificate. The resulting
injuries drove the boy to suicide. (Makes you wonder what kind of injuries were inflicted, right?)
3. Why didn't Pablo exact revenge immediately? He was a coward of a father, a sorry fact he proved to himself later on.
4. Why did Pablo call himself a tree without branches? He no longer had any children left.
5. What happened to Pablo's daughter after she was raped by the priest? It is not clear in the chapter although one can guess that she
might have committed suicide because of the humiliation (remember, this was in the 1800s). Besides, Pablo mentioned that he lost all his
children because he was a worthless father.
6. Who punished the two boys of Pablo (and ulimately led them to their deaths)? Again, it was not clearly pointed out. It could have
been the alferez or the head of the guardia civil. This was the target of Pablo. He didn't want to harm the guardia civil because they were
just following orders. This lack of animosity towards the soldiers earned Pablo a head wound. Or at least that's how he explained his
injury to Elias.
7. What criticism against Ibarra did Pablo use to defend his belief that Ibarra would not be able to help them? Pablo reasoned that
Ibarra is a rich man who stands to lose much. He is about to get married and faces a bright and happy future and would not likely risk all
that just for a handful of fugitives. Pablo said that he clearly understands this because he, too, was once a rich young man.
8. How did Elias react to this? He said that Ibarra was different (based on his dealings with Ibarra).

Chapter 65: Epilogue

This lists what happened to the rest of the characters of the Noli.
Some Notes
• Padre Damaso accepts an assignment to be a parish priest in a distant province. He is found the following day, dead from a heart attack
or a case of hypertension.
• Padre Salvi is seen regularly delivering sermons in the Sta. Clara convent (where Maria Clara is).
• Capitan Tiago ends up gambling and spending a lot of time in cockfighting arenas. He stopped regularly going to church after Maria Clara
became a nun.
• Dona Victorina worsened as she tried harder to live the life of an Espanola, while De Espadaña was often seen without any false teeth.
• Linares died.
• The alferes, who became a 2nd Lieutenant, returned to Spain, leaving Donya Consolacion (who ended up an excessive smoker and
alcoholic).
• A lot of people who lived near the lake died when a ship exploded on January 2, 1883. It's possible that some of the Noli characters were
among those who perished.
• Spanish guards saw Maria Clara, the nun standing on top of the convent roof one stormy evening, hoping to be hit by lightning. She is,
according to the abbess or Mother Superior, a crazy nun.
(Hmmm...really sounds like a bad Tagalog movie, right? But we digress...)
Questions and Answers
1. Why did Padre Damaso leave his parish (in the town he transferred to from San Diego), and decided to stay in Manila? In order
to be near Maria Clara. He would most likely visit the convent where his daughter was in order to protect from what he feared might
happen to her in the convent.
2. Why was he severely disheartened (which probably lead to his death) by the order to transfer to a distant province? He didn't
want to be placed far from Maria Clara. It is possible that Padre Salvi, who lusted after Maria Clara, had a hand in Damaso's transfer.
3. Did Capitan Tiago realize that Maria Clara was not his daughter? Although he did stop his religious activities after Maria Clara
entered the nunnery, and although he began gambling, we shall only know for sure when we read the El Filibusterismo.
4. Is Maria Clara a Paragon or a Parody? Read Literature and Society by S.P. Lopez and look for his article "Maria Clara, a Paragon or
Caricature." Also, look for the magazine "The Philippine Quarterly" and read Nick Joaquin's piece on Maria Clara (as a woman to be
admired).
5. Who organized the revolution that was being blamed on Ibarra? Damaso or Salvi? While Padre Damaso openly fought against
Ibarra (through sermons), motive cannot be established. Padre Salvi, on the other hand, has the following going against him:
o Lucas recruited a lot of people for the revolution.
o Lucas was always talking with the sacristan mayor.
o Padre Salvi was the one who "found out" about the start date of the revolution because of "some woman's" confession.
o The subversive documents found were signed by Ibarra using, not his present signature, but the signature he used in his *old*
letter to Maria Clara.
o Padre Salvi knew precisely how many would storm the church, which explains why he asked for four guardia civil.
o Padre Salvi connived with the "yellow person" who attempted to assassinate Ibarra during the laying of the cornerstone of the
school.