Books & Literature

Anyone who has never been to a Filipino fiesta may think dedicating more than five chapters to one is a bit excessive. The truth is, it may not even be enough. Even to this day, our fiestas are so grand and lavish, that some take weeks to prepare, with the actual events lasting a week, or even a month. In comparison, Rizal’s description of San Diego’s fiesta is even a little … [Read more...] about Noli Me Tangere Chapter Summaries 26-30

There is a critical conversation here between Tasio and Ibarra, which I feel imparts the core purpose of the Noli --- exposing the sad state of affairs in the Philippines during Rizal’s time. It is likely however, that because this serious theme was repeatedly and heavily dwelt upon in school, I found myself more absorbed in the reading of Elias and Salome’s story … [Read more...] about Noli Me Tangere Chapter Summaries 21-25

There is a great deal of looking at the mirror here. Many of the elements from the past remain the same today, including the terrible injustice the poor suffer, and the impossibly uphill battle good people face to fight for what is right. Chapter 16: Sisa Earlier in the day, Sisa, Basilio and Crispin’s mother, took pains to gather food, even begging Tasio for some … [Read more...] about Noli Me Tangere Chapter Summaries 16-20

There are a few good bits of side-splitting hilarity here and a delicious dab of sarcasm, but all this mirth can’t soften the blow of the 15th chapter, and later, the 17th. I must say, none of saddest pieces of classic literature I’ve read from Wharton to Dostoevsky has grieved me as much as these two chapters, because… well… Crispin. :’(   Photo: Karina … [Read more...] about Noli Me Tangere Chapter Summaries 11-15

If they had their own version of a throwback Thursday in the late 19th century, these chapters would certainly qualify for the characters of the Noli. More origin stories for people, places and relationships unravel, with just a touch of foreboding to spice things up.       Chapter 6: Capitan Tiago Aside from already being a wealthy … [Read more...] about Noli Me Tangere Chapter Summaries 6-10