Noli Me Tangere Chapter 20 Discussion Notes PDF

Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal Chapter 20: The Meeting at City Hall - Rizal first establishes the rough dimensions of the venue where the meeting at city hall will take place Specifically, the venue is approximately "twelve to fifteen meters long and eight to ten meters wi...

Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal Chapter 20: The Meeting at City Hall - Rizal first establishes the rough dimensions of the venue where the meeting at city hall will take place Specifically, the venue is approximately "twelve to fifteen meters long and eight to ten meters wide" - The venue is relatively spacious, suggesting it is a significant room within the city hall, possibly intended to accommodate a number of people for public meetings, gatherings, and other events - Rizal's description of the venue's walls indicates that though they have been whitewashed, presumably - - - - - - - for a clean or neutral appearance, they're marred by charcoal drawings, which are described as being "somewhat ugly" and "somewhat indecent" [this suggests a lack of decorum and respect for the space] The addition of captions to these drawings implies that they tell stories or convey messages, perhaps of a humorous or mocking manner, contributing to the room's informal or disrespected atmosphere Rizal describes a miscellaneous assortment of weaponry stored haphazardly in one corner of the room Specifically, a mixture of old and culturally diverse armaments, including ten flintlock rifles, sabers, espadines1, and talibones2 [their "dirtiness" indicates a neglect or indiscipline in their maintenance] These all belong to the Civil Guard (Guardia Civil), the Spanish armed police force within the town - Founded in 1844, it's the oldest law enforcement agency in Spain and operates as a gendarmerie3 Rizal describes dirty red drapes hanging at one end of the room, which partly obscured a wall portrait The drapes' uncleanliness detracts from their intended decorative purpose [again, implies neglect] The portrait depicts "His Majesty," likely referring to the King of Spain [this indicates the colonial influence in the Philippines and the formal recognition of the Spanish authority within the space] - The fact that it is "partly hidden" could hint at this authority's diminished or obscured relevance In the local context, it also suggests neglect or disrespect for the symbol of colonial authority Positioned beneath the portrait and elevated on a wooden platform is an old chair with "broken arms" This conveys a sense of decay and disrepair, perhaps a symbol of the deteriorating state of colonial rule or the ineffectiveness of the local administration [again, visible signs of colonialism's failures] The placement of the chair in a prominent position suggests its use by someone of authority, yet its dilapidated condition undermines this authority [this is an instance of Rizal using situational irony] The desk's description as "ink-stained, pocked and carved with inscriptions and initials" evokes a sense of use and wear, indicating that the desk serves a practical purpose rather than merely a decorative one The wear and tear symbolizes the years of bureaucratic activities than have taken place in this room The desk's comparison to tables in "German taverns frequented by students" suggests a communal space where individuals gather, share ideas, and leave their marks, albeit rather casual and raucous - This reference isn't surprising given Rizal's student life in Germany, where he would have likely visited beer halls and immersed himself in the local revelry, socializing with his fellow students The inclusion of "benches and rickety chairs" as part of the furnishings further stresses the room's state of disrepair and the casual, perhaps even neglected and disorderly, approach to maintaining the space This choice of seating, practical but unstable, could reflect the precariousness of the local society's relationship with the colonial authorities, as well as the general state of neglect by those in power The room is identified as the city hall session room, but it's also ominously dubbed "the torture room" This dual designation suggests that though the room serves as a place for official deliberations and governance, it is also a space where conflict, coercion, or harsh political confrontations take place The ominous nickname of "the torture room" might metaphorically suggest that the discussions and decisions made within this room are a source of suffering for the local community and townspeople The primary function of the room is established as a venue for the town's leaders and representatives to congregate and discuss matters of local governance, thus a hub for political and administrative activity Rizal introduces a fundamental division between two rival factions within the local political landscape 1. espadines → plural of espadín, a Spanish word used in reference to a type of dress sword, typically used as part of certain ceremonial uniforms and distinguished by its slender or triangular blade [the sword evolved out of the longer and heavier rapier, or espada ropera ("dress sword" in Spanish), which were famously worn as part of the attire by Spanish nobility and gentlemen during the Renaissance (i.e., 16th and 17th centuries)] 2. talibones → likely a variant spelling of talibong, a traditional sword originating from the Visayas region in the central Philippines, characterized by its single-edged blade, which is often curved, and a prominent point 3. gendarmerie → a specialized military force tasked with enforcing law and order within civilian populations 1 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal Specifically, the older, more established party and the younger, presumably more progressive party - The inability of these two groups to "mix" or tolerate each other suggests deep-seated ideological differences and personal animosities that hinder collaboration and dialogue, resulting in deadlock The older and younger parties are identified as the conservative and liberal viewpoints, respectively - Their conflicts are described as "extreme" in these towns, suggesting that political disagreements are not merely academic or philosophical but are deeply ingrained and are passionately defended - This polarization reflects broader tensions within Philippine society during the Spanish colonial period, mirroring the clash between traditional values and the push for reform and modernization - Rizal opens the scene with Don Filipo, the deputy mayor of San Diego and head of the liberal faction, - - - - - - expressing his frustration to his associates about the mayor's behavior, complaining that it is irritating He accuses him of deliberately plotting to delay the discussion of an unspecified issue until the last possible moment, a tactic that suggests an attempt to either limit debate or manipulate the outcome His mention of only 11 days remaining implies a looming deadline or event happening in the town A young man notes that the mayor is spending time at the parish house, conversing with Father Salví He refers to Salví's "illness" [this is suspicious, given his earlier potential involvement in foul play] - Nevertheless, this doesn't seem to deter these consultations, stressing their perceived importance This could suggest a close relationship between the mayor and the priest, indicating that religious authority may play a role in the political process or decision-making [shows the priest's influence] Another individual [perhaps a representative of the liberal party] responds with optimism, suggesting that despite the mayor's actions and consultations with Father Salví, the liberal party is prepared, and believes that the conservative party's proposal, "the old man's project," won't achieve a majority vote This reflects his confidence in the liberal party's strategy and the outcome of the pending decision Don Filipo counters the previous optimism expressed by his colleagues with a surprising declaration that he intends to present the conservative party's proposal himself [this strategy startles his listeners] The response from those around him is one of confusion and astonishment, taken aback by his plan, as it seems counterintuitive for a leader of the liberal party to advocate for the opposing party's plan Don Filipo clarifies his strategy, saying that by taking the initiative to present the opposition's proposal, he gains a tactical advantage [this suggests a specific reason for wanting to control the introduction of the conservative plan, perhaps intending to frame the debate or influence the narrative from the outset] His colleagues seek clarification on how the liberal party's proposal will be introduced & discussed Don Filipo delegates the responsibility of presenting the liberal party's proposal to another individual, presumably the young tax collector he approaches, confident this shall turn out favorably for his party He anticipates that his initial presentation of the conservative party's plan will not succeed, and that it is part of his cunning stratagem for the young tax collector to then introduce the liberal proposal He possibly aims to capitalize on the momentum or the arguments made during the initial discussion However, despite his explanation, his colleagues remain perplexed and skeptical about his intentions - Their doubt stems from Don Filipo's unconventional political strategy, which deviates from more straightforward approaches to political debate and advocacy [he employs political maneuvering] Don Filipo confides with a few of his trusted colleagues that this morning he met with Don Anastasio Note that when Don Filipo debuted [in Chapter 14], he spoke with Don Anastasio about purgatory That morning, Don Anastasio offered Don Filipo a counterintuitive political stratagem, suggesting that the personal animosity their opponents hold toward them can be harnessed to their advantage - By proposing the opposition's idea themselves, even if it is beneficial, their enemies' personal dislike will lead them to reject the proposal out of spite, as they'll unleash ad hominem attacks The comparison to "a bishop's miter" (a headdress) highlights the notion that even proposals of undeniable value will be dismissed if they're presented by those whom their opponents despise Don Anastasio offers a follow-up to the initial stratagem: after the first proposal is rejected, a less prominent member of Don Filipo's party should be assigned to present their party's true objective - The expectation here is that their adversaries, eager to score a political point against Don Filipo and his allies, will back this second proposal, mistaking it for a minor or inconsequential matter Don Filipo emphasizes to his colleagues the importance of keeping Anastasio's advice confidential - His scheme's effectiveness depends on their opponents' unawareness of the manipulation at play This is crucial for it to succeed, as foreknowledge by their enemies would render it ineffective His listeners express doubt at his intentions, confused at the counterintuitive nature of his stratagem 2 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal Don Filipo expands on his strategy: he intends to present the opposition's plan but will exaggerate its - - - elements to the absurd, likely aiming to expose its flaws or impracticality [a "straw man" argument4] - By employing a "straw man" fallacy in his presentation, he is setting up a situation in which the opposition is likely to reject their exaggerated ideas, providing the liberals a strategic advantage However, he abruptly cuts short his explanation as Crisóstomo Ibarra and the schoolmaster arrive - His call for silence highlights the sensitive nature of the discussion and the need for discretion Upon their arrival, Crisóstomo and the schoolmaster acknowledge a few groups of people in the room However, they choose not to engage in any discussions with them [this behavior might reflect their desire to maintain neutral or their intention to observe rather than influence pre-meeting dynamics] A few minutes after their entrance, the mayor arrives [he's marked by his visible expression of disgust] His show of disgust suggests his dissatisfaction or annoyance with his situation or the meeting itself Rizal points out that this was the same man whom we had last observed carrying a basket of candles - This refers to his prior interaction with Don Anastasio in Chapter 14 [he held a basket of candles] His presence commands attention to respect, as indicated by the cessation of whispering taking their seats, leading to a gradual onset of silence [this sets the stage for the formal start of the conference] The "captain" (i.e., the mayor) begins the meeting with apparent physical discomfort and nervousness This is shown by his coughing, rubbing his head and face, and the restless movement of his elbows Although he is positioned under the King of Spain's portrait, his actions betray a lack of composure The frequent repetition of these actions underscores the mayor's unease and possibly his ill health - This sets an awkward tone and may foreshadow difficulty in managing the meeting effectively When he finally speaks, his voice is described as weak, and blurts out "Gentlemen!", suggesting a struggle to assert his authority and commence the event with the gravitas expected of his position - His use of "dared" implies a recognition of the significance or conscientiousness of the meeting - Frequent coughs ("khem") interrupt his speech, undermining the formality of the occasion and highlighting his physical state [obviously impeding his ability to perform his duties effectively] - He mentions the upcoming festival of San Diego on November 12 as the reason for the meeting This is because the name of the town of San Diego derives from the saint Didacus of Alcalá5 - Although Catholics officially celebrate his feast day on November 13, he died on Nov. 12 - Do note that this is not the first time that an upcoming festival was alluded to in the novel Early in Chapter 7, Aunt Isabel informed María Clara about a festival "coming up soon" - However, his attempt to address the meeting is ultimately thwarted by his persistent coughing His coughing becomes so severe that it forces him to stop speaking [this physical incapacity not only silences him but also symbolically reflects his political ineffectiveness as a leader] A forty-year old man from the "old men's bench," characterized by his arrogance, rises from his seat The man's position on the "old men's bench" aligns him with the assembly's conservative faction His name is Captain Basilio [he should not be confused with Basilio, the older of Sisa's two sons] He is described as wealthy, likely contributing to his sense of superiority or authority in the town - Captain Basilio is also the first identified adversary of Don Rafael Ibarra, Crisóstomo's father He was one of the men who accused Don Rafael and led him to his imprisonment and death This positions him as antagonistic to the novel's more reform-minded characters and ideas He's known for his extreme conservatism, regarding the period following the death of St. Thomas Aquinas (a pivotal and influential 13th-century philosopher and theologian) as devoid of progress - This paints him as someone who's deeply entrenched in traditionalist or even regressive beliefs - He also holds that humanity has regressed since his time at the Colegio de San Juan de Letrán6 4. "straw man" argument → a logical fallacy where a person exaggerates, misrepresents, or oversimpli es someone's actual position or argument to make it easier to attack or refute; the fallacy involves setting up a weaker, decoy version of it [the "straw man"] rather than attacking the opponent's original argument instead 5. Didacus of Alcalá → (c. 1400–12 November 1463) a Spanish Franciscan lay brother and saint canonized by Pope Sixtus V in 1588, known for his missionary work in the Canary Islands [his name in Spanish is Diego de Alcalá; incidentally, the real city of San Diego in California derives from the mission named after this saint] 6. Colegio de San Juan de Letrán → a private Roman Catholic Dominican institution of higher learning in the Intramuros district of Manila; founded in 1620, it's one of the oldest colleges in the Philippines and Asia fi 3 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal This further illustrates his pessimistic and backwards-looking worldview and suggests that his experiences and education have shaped his belief in the superiority of the past over the present - Captain Basilio begins his speech with a formal call to attention from everyone present in the meeting The man starts by framing his forthcoming comments as pertaining to a topic of significant interest He acknowledges that others present in the room might possess a stronger claim to speak before him - However, he dismisses the speaking order as inconsequential [this could be seen as an attempt to preemptively address any objections to him taking the floor and assert control over the meeting] He argues for the urgent significance of his points, claiming they warrant priority in the discussion - He implies that the weight of his message necessitates an early presentation to set the appropriate - - - - tone for the meeting [this assertion serves to elevate his status and authority within the assembly] This positions his contributions to this discussion as crucial to the deliberations in the meeting He repeats his formal request to the assembly, using flattery by acknowledging notable men present - These include the captain and former captains, his friends Don Valentín and Don Julio, a captain of the infantry named Don Melchor, and many others [he speaks flatteringly to elevate himself] He expresses a preference for brevity and straightforwardness over dissembling (concealing one's true motives over thoughts), suggesting an intent to speak candidly [however, this is hypocritical] - His extensive preamble has contradicted his claim [this highlights his manipulative eloquence] One can draw an intertextual parallel to the character Polonius in Shakespeare's play Hamlet - In Act II, Scene II of Hamlet, he famously quips "brevity is the soul of wit," which is ironic and hypocritical, given his long-windedness and tendency to offer tedious, verbose advice Once again, he reiterates his initial request, explicitly asking permission to be the first one to speak He concludes his request by framing it as seeking the assembly's favor, depicting his desire to speak first as a modest petition rather than an entitlement [it's designed to elicit agreement, allowing them to grant him the floor as a gesture of goodwill, rather than as a concession to his authority or status] Now about to orate, Captain Basilio acknowledges their consent with a respectful bow and half-smile This indicates a mixture of gratitude and maybe a sense of triumph and satisfaction at his approval His half-smile maybe suggests modesty, cunning, or an internal recognition of his strategic success His friends, along with others who view him as a skilled speaker, show eagerness in what he has to say This encouragement from the audience not only expresses their support but sets expectations for his performance as a speaker, indicating his reputation or perceived ability to deliver impactful orations The oldest members of the conservative faction cough with satisfaction and rub their hands together - These are traditional gestures of contentment or readiness, suggesting they anticipate his speech to align with their views or interests [this gesture signifies their approval and high expectations] Before he continues his speech, Captain Basilio wipes away his perspiration with a silk handkerchief This reveals a mixture of nervousness and propriety on his part and adds a humanizing element to his character, indicating that he is affected by the gravity of the occasion despite his confident front The use of a silk handkerchief, a symbol of his wealth and status, also stresses his social standing In the continuation of his speech, Captain Basilio expresses gratitude for the opportunity to speak first He emphasizes the graciousness and accommodation of his audience [this sets a considerate tone] His use of language is marked by humility and acknowledgement of the consent he's been granted - After this flattery, he formally accepts the floor and transitions into the main part of his speech Captain Basilio opens with quite a grandiose comparison, imagining himself amid the Roman senate He invokes senatus populusque romanus7, symbolizing the ancient Roman Republic's governance - Through this, he likens the meeting to a historical model of civic discourse and decision-making He expresses a nostalgic lament that present society cannot return to the days of the Roman senate - For him, they represented a peak of civil engagement and wisdom that modern society has lost - This sentiment reveals his romanticization of the past and extremely conservative perspective He sees historical eras as superior to the current state of affairs, which he sees as regressive He invokes the phrase patres conscripti8, used by Cicero and others to address the Roman senate 7. senatus populusque romanus → a Latin phrase that translates to "The Senate and People of Rome," an of cial state emblem of the Roman Republic, representing the authority of the Senate and the Roman people 8. patres conscripti → Latin for "conscript fathers," used in ancient Rome as a direct address to the Senate fi 4 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal - He continues to frame the meeting in classical and antiquated terms, borrowing the authority and gravitas associated with ancient Rome [once again, this reflects his romanticization of antiquity] - By comparing his speech with the rhetorical style of Cicero9, he intends to imbue his own words - - - - with similar wisdom and significance [this is ironic given the meaninglessness of what he says] He transitions from Roman to biblical references, crediting the phrase "time is money" to Solomon10 - Although erroneous, this attribution serves to stress the urgency and value of the meeting's time - This shift illustrates his attempt to draw from diverse sources of authority to underline his points He calls for clarity, brevity, and simplicity in the discussion about the "important question" at hand - The "important question" concerns the festival of San Diego on November 12 earlier mentioned - This appeal suggests a desire for efficient and effective communication, presumably to facilitate understanding and decision-making within the limited time available, since they have a deadline He finishes his speech with a succinct closure, signaling the conclusion of his introductory remarks - This also shows his readiness to proceed with the meeting's agenda [as it is of great importance] - This brief conclusion contrasts with the grandiosity of its opening, perhaps reflecting a pragmatic recognition of the need to move forward with the real business, the "important question," at hand Captain Basilio sits down, satisfied with his performance and the attention garnered from the assembly His look of superiority toward Crisóstomo perhaps indicates a challenge or assertion of dominance The glance that he shares with his friends, laden with self-approval, suggests an invitation for them to acknowledge his success, bolstering his sense of accomplishment and authority within the group His friends imitate his expressions of superiority and self-satisfaction, turning these glances toward the younger attendees, likely those aligned with Crisóstomo or representing more progressive views - This gesture aims to provoke envy or discomfort among them, using nonverbal communication to assert dominance and belittle opposing viewpoints [this suggests the polarization of the meeting] This accentuates the meeting's divisiveness [tensions between conservatives and progressives] The mayor tries to open the floor for further discussion, inviting others to speak—however, he coughs His inability to complete his sentence due to his coughing underscores his earlier portrayed physical weakness and likely represents his ineptitude and lack of control and authority over the proceedings His coughing and wheezing worsen, further disrupting the meeting and drawing attention away from the substantive issues at hand [these ailments serve as a literal disruption to the flow of the meeting] - This not only humanizes him but also serves as a broader commentary of the frailties of those in power and the troubling implications for leadership and decision-making within the community The silence that follows the mayor's invitation for others to speak suggests a reluctance among those present to identify themselves as leaders or elders (patres conscripti) willing to address the assembly Eyeing a potential opportunity in this situation, Don Filipo steps forward and requests a turn to speak This shows his initiative where others show reluctance [probably because of a lack of confidence] Noticing his move to speak, the members of the conservative party exchange glances and gestures - This body language indicates mutual understanding or a prearranged plan, possibly suggesting they have anticipated his action or have a strategy in response to whatever plan he might present Don Filipo announces his intention to present his own proposal concerning the festival of San Diego His direct approach contrasts with the earlier reluctance and silence among the meeting attendees An elderly conservative immediately objects to the proposal of Don Filipo even before it is presented He is described as consumptive11, highlighting his physical frailty, and intransigent, indicating his unwillingness to consider alternative views [this stresses deep divisions and resistance to change] Other conservative members quickly oppose, showing their intent to vote against Don Filipo's proposal Their collective opposition without seeing the plan further illustrates the polarization of the meeting This preemptive rejection illustrates the ideological battle lines between the conservative and liberal factions, with the conservatives united in their stance against Don Filipo's proposal before it debuts 9. Cicero → Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 BC), a Roman orator, lawyer, writer, and statesman who played a signi cant role in the last years of the Roman Republic [one of the greatest Roman orators and prose stylists] 10. "crediting … Solomon" → Captain Basilio erroneously credits the adage "time is money" to Solomon in the Old Testament [the adage's rst known use in 1719 predates Benjamin Franklin's use by about 29 years] 11. consumptive → a term that refers to a person with a wasting disease, especially pulmonary tuberculosis fi fi 5 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal - Don Filipo begins his address with an attempt to moderate the situation, noting with a restrained smile - - - - - - that the opposition, the conservative party, has responded negatively even before hearing the proposal His use of "your youth" positions his faction, the liberal party, as representing new ideas and change - This contrasts with the conservative tendencies of his opponents, who show resistance to progress He shows confidence in the appeal of the proposal, suggesting it surpasses anything the assembly or their adversaries could imagine [note of the logical parallels to Anselm of Canterbury's ontological argument for the existence of God, specifically his argument for the "greatest conceivable being"] Don Filipo's assertive and somewhat boastful tone exacerbates the conservative faction's annoyance This leads to them vowing in corde12 to mount significant opposition against Don Filipo's proposal - This suggests an internal resistance, stressing the intense ideological divide between the parties Despite the palpable opposition, Don Filipo proceeds with his presentation, showing his determination to make a case for his proposal and perhaps a belief in the power of his argument to sway the assembly Don Filipo reveals their budget of 3,500 pesos and says it can host a festival of unrivaled extravagance He boasts that it would surpass anything previously observed in their own or neighboring provinces His statement aims to impress the assembly with the scale and ambition of his plans, leveraging the promise of an unprecedented celebration to garner support [here, he uses hyperbole to exaggerate] The disbelievers, likely conservatives, express their disdain and incredulity toward Don Filipo's claims They note that adjacent towns, A. and B., have budgets of 5,000 pesos and 4,000 pesos respectively - This implies their belief that the proposed budget is insufficient for a festival of any significance - Their dismissive "Bah!" and "Pure humbug!" signal a refusal to take his considerations seriously Despite this, Don Filipo remains resolute, expressing his intent to persuade them through clarification Don Filipo introduces a particular component of the festival plans: constructing a grand theater in the town square with an estimated cost of 150 pesos [suggests an ambitious, culturally significant project] A conservative member immediately challenges this estimate, arguing that the theater's construction will need slightly more funds [specifically ten pesos more than Don Filipo's estimate] than proposed Responding to the conservatives' objections, Don Filipo decisively increases the budget to 200 pesos By directly addressing this adjustment to the director, a person who's presumably responsible for recording decisions or budgetary allocations, Don Filipo ensures that this adjusted figure is noted Don Filipo further exaggerates the plans by hiring the Comedia de Tondo, a presumably well-known and prestigious performance group, for a week at the rate of 200 pesos per night, totaling 1,400 pesos This proposal reveals a substantial portion of their own budget being allocated to entertainment Both the assembly's older and younger members are shocked at the scale and cost of the festival plans This might reflect the assembly's unfamiliarity with such grandiose proposals, suggesting that Don Filipo's proposals significantly depart from the town's usual festival arrangements [that's the point] Only Don Filipo's closest confidants, whom he had told the secret of his stratagem, remained silent - Their quiet amid the broader reaction reflects their understanding of the strategy behind his plan Don Filipo distinguishes his proposal for fireworks from the more traditional, less impressive displays often seen at festivals, whose fireworks he dismisses as being only suitable for children and old maids He proposes his ideal fireworks display, which would include "great bombs" and "colossal rockets" - He desires for the festival to be memorable and visually stunning, exceeding usual expectations He specifies the fireworks' quantity and price, specifically 200 great bombs at two pesos each and 200 rockets for the same two pesos (a total cost of 800 pesos), providing a clear budgetary outline He mentions he'll hire pyrotechnicians from Malabon [a town situated north of the city of Manila] - This implies that professionals will manage the fireworks show, ensuring both safety and quality An old man interrupts and suggests more expensive three-peso bombs, as they are more "frightening" and "deafening" [reflects both an enthusiasm for the idea and a want to further amplify the spectacle] His remark also hints at the ongoing negotiation over the scale and cost of the festival's components In response, Don Filipo again quickly adjusts the budget to accommodate the suggestion, rounding up the cost to 1,000 pesos for 200 bombs and 200 rockets to satisfy the assembly's growing expectations The reaction from the conservatives, who had been showing signs of restlessness, indicate that the escalating costs and grandiose plans for the festival of San Diego finally force them to take action 12. in corde → Latin for "in the heart," often used to express something held deeply within one's emotions 6 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal Their decision to convene separately suggests a split in the assembly, with the conservatives perhaps preparing to mount an organized opposition to Don Filipo's proposals [they're becoming unfeasible] - Don Filipo suggests additional elements for the festival, apparently motivated by a desire to impress - - - - - - neighbors and show off the town's wealth [once again, he is trying to show the proposal's absurdity] The raising of his voice and his glance at the elders indicates a strategic emphasis on these points, perhaps to challenge their conservatism or influence their opinion by appealing to community pride The proposal includes hiring four marshals to oversee the festival [adds formality & organization] He offers the more exaggerated suggestion of throwing 200 fried chickens, 100 stuffed capons, and 50 suckling pigs into the lake near San Diego as a spectacle, which he justifies as emulating Sulla13 - By mentioning Sulla, he links it to the classical allusion to Cicero made earlier by Capt. Basilio The conservative Captain Basilio is flattered by Don Filipo's alignment with his classical references His enthusiastic reply suggests that he is pleased with the reference to Roman history, indicating some approval or support for Don Filipo's hyperbolic ideas and proposals, at least in this regard The reaction to Don Filipo's exaggerated proposals gradually amplifies the shock within the meeting Although his suggestion to throw food into the lake is wasteful, that's the point [it's a "straw man"] Don Filipo continues the exaggerations, suggesting extending the festival's activities to include fifteen days of cockfights and the opening of all gambling houses, capitalizing on the expected rich attendees His proposal aims to cater to the interests and vices of the affluent, assuming their desire to gamble and partake in cockfighting [the latter activity was popular then but now considered controversial] He assumes they will bring thousands of pesos, along with the best gamecocks, liampó14, and cards The younger, more liberal and progressive, members of the assembly are shocked at Don Filipo's plans Their physical reaction, standing up, signifies strong disagreement or astonishment, indicating that they perceive his suggestions as radical or inappropriate [again, that's the point, it's part of his plan] The younger men's disbelief leads them to question Don Filipo's sanity, implying that the proposals are so out of step with their expectations and values that they can't grasp them as serious suggestions The older assembly members engage in heated debate, reflecting a split within the conservative faction Some might see the proposal as an opportunity to showcase the town's wealth and hospitality, while others could view it as unfeasible or promoting immorality or excess [once again, this is the point] Don Filipo attempts to continue the presentation by shifting the focus to more spiritual or intellectual aspects of the festival, possibly to balance his earlier proposals about material and physical pleasures Before Don Filipo can elaborate on this new proposal, the assembly erupts into chaos and commotion Rizal's description of the meeting as a "riot" indicates a complete breakdown of decorum and order - This reflects deep-seated ideological divisions and heightened emotions among the participants A staunch conservative vehemently opposes Don Filipo's proposals for the festival, not necessarily on their merits but primarily because he objects to Don Filipo receiving credit for organizing the festival This response underscores the personal and political undercurrents that are influencing the debate, where opposition is motivated as much by competition and prestige as by substantive disagreements The liberals, viewing Don Filipo's proposals as a betrayal, accuse him of siding with the conservatives They call for a collective vote against his plans [their reaction shows confusion and disillusionment] - They interpret his exaggerated and seemingly extravagant proposals as aligning with conservative values rather than the progressive values they advocate [again, this is part of Don Filipo's scheme] The mayor, overwhelmed by the chaos and perhaps lacking the authority or will to intervene, passively hopes for the assembly to calm itself without taking any action to mediate the dispute [he's possibly ill] His inaction in the face of chaos highlights a leadership void, exacerbating the disarray and leaving the assembly without guidance to navigate its decisions constructively [shows his ineffectiveness] The infantry captain, Don Melchor, attempts to contribute to the debate by asking for a turn to speak 13. Sulla → Lucius Cornelius Sulla Felix (138–78 BC), a Roman general and statesman who played a critical role in the late Roman Republic's history; according to Plutarch's Lives, Sulla hosted a sumptuous feast that lasted for several days, whose super uous provision of meats led him to throw away the leftovers in the river 14. liampó → a type of Chinese gambling game, popular during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines; it derives from Hokkien Chinese lián-pó, and denotes a gambling game using a cube shaken in a square box fl 7 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal His request is granted, indicating a momentary pause in the chaos as the assembly turns its attention to him, suggesting a potential shift or intervention in the ongoing dispute [it will soon be short-lived] However, despite being granted the chance to speak, Don Melchor finds himself unable to articulate - - - - his thoughts or proposals, leading him to curtly relinquish the floor without making his contribution - His confusion or embarrassment suggest he may have been overwhelmed by the heated arguments of the debate or unsure of how to navigate the sharply divided opinions brewing in the assembly Captain Valentín, characterized as the most moderate of the conservatives, decides to step in to speak His reputation as a moderate figure suggests he might offer a perspective aimed at finding common ground or tempering the more extreme proposals [such as Don Filipo's] that have inflamed tensions He immediately expresses opposition to Don Filipo's absurd proposals, labelling them as excessive - His disagreement is framed not just as a personal opinion [which it largely is] but as a reflection of a broader conservative sentiment, indicating a fundamental clash in the visions for the festival He attributes Don Filipo's ambitious plans to his youthful enthusiasm and endurance (i.e., spending many nights without sleeping and listening to many thunderous explosions without becoming deaf) - This implies his belief that his plans are inappropriate or unreasonable for the wider community Again, one must note that he intended for his plans to be impractical or unnecessarily lavish He has consulted with other "reasonable" men who unanimously disapprove of Don Filipo's plans - By appealing to their consensus, he seeks to bolster his argument against Don Filipo's proposals - The rhetorical question he poses to the assembly, "Isn't that right, gentlemen?" serves to solicit public affirmation of his stance, intending to further isolate Don Filipo's position as an outlier The unanimous agreement from both the liberal and conservative members of the meeting to Captain Valentín's reasoned critique highlights a rare moment of consensus in what has been a divisive debate This bipartisanship suggests that Captain Valentín's moderate stance and reasoned arguments have bridged the ideological gap, at least temporarily [this shows that Don Filipo's stratagem is working] The assembly's younger members are particularly impressed by Valentín's more thought-out approach This contrasts with the more extreme and conservative stances associated with the older generation Another conservative member challenges the practicality of appointing four marshals for the festival His question signals skepticism about the necessity and utility of such an extravagant arrangement He criticizes the absurd proposal of tossing food into the lake as a tribute to the Roman general Sulla He predicts that nearby towns will mock such wastefulness as humbug and could lead to financial hardship, underscoring practical concerns about resource management and community reputation Moreover, he criticizes the relevance of Roman history to the town's contemporary cultural practices He humorously notes the lack of personal invitations from ancient Romans to their festivals, using this absurdity to stress the disconnect between Don Filipo's unrealistic plans and the local context Captain Basilio reminds him of the geographical and cultural distance between their town and Rome This aside could be seen as an attempt to ground the debate in reality, albeit in a humorous manner that acknowledges the speaker's rhetorical flourish or presumably his apparent classical knowledge The old man responds to his clarification about the Romans with a feigned or humorous realization He maintains his composure despite the conversation's absurdity, and his unflappable demeanor suggests a rhetorical strategy to dismiss Don Filipo's proposals without directly confronting them He offers a creative but historically inaccurate explanation for the Roman practice of casting food into the water, humorously suggesting it was once done under papal orders to avoid sin during Lent - This fanciful interpretation further distances Don Filipo's proposals from practical consideration by framing his plans within a context of religious observance and historical misunderstanding Concluding his remarks, the old man categorically rejects Don Filipo's exaggerated festival plans - He bluntly assesses it as "inadmissible," "impossible," and "crazy," reflecting a broader sentiment within the meeting that the proposals are too extravagant or impractical for serious consideration Facing overwhelming bipartisan opposition, Don Filipo concedes defeat by withdrawing his proposal His strategy of presenting a "straw man" of the conservative's plans and being defeated has worked, as it has successfully led to a bipartisan dismissal of his exaggerated conception of the festival plans The assembly's staunch conservatives react with a seeming sense of victory at Don Filipo's withdrawal Though they are unknowingly duped, they are convinced they have regained control of the meeting 8 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal - A young liberal man, identified by his title cabeza de barangay15, gets up and requests a turn to speak Since this man is not well-known, conservatives will see his plans as more in line with their views - The young liberal begins by humbly requesting forgiveness for his audacity in speaking among much - - - - - - - older men and acknowledges their superior age, which he associates with prudence and discernment This opening effectively sets a respectful tone and positions himself as deferential and considerate This introduction is strategic, aimed at disarming potential criticism and earning the goodwill of the older conservative members of the meeting by acknowledging their authority and perceived wisdom He justifies his decision to speak by citing Captain Basilio's earlier call for all to share their opinions Implies that this open call legitimizes his participation despite his youth and relative insignificance This leverages Captain Basilio's status and the broader appeal for input as a shield for his boldness - He frames his contribution as a response to a respected elder's request instead of an interruption His respectful approach and acknowledge of the assembly's authority please the conservative faction They likely view his deferential greeting as a sign of good upbringing and proper social hierarchy Their nodding indicates approval of his demeanor and perhaps an openness to hearing what he has to say, a stark contrast to the more confrontational or divisive tones previously seen in the meeting Their whispered commendations among themselves further highlight their favorable impression of the young man's stance, as his modesty and apparent judgment seem to resonate with their values - This indicates that they perceive the young man as a potentially reliable and reasonable voice - This approval from the conservatives reflects the importance of tone, presentation, and respect for authority in the assembly's dynamics, especially given the contentious nature of the debates Captain Basilio, observing the young speaker, criticizes his use of gestures and lack of physical poise Specifically, the young speaker's uncertainty concerning how to manage his hands while speaking While the young man may be articulate, he lacks the polished demeanor for an experienced orator His criticism reflects the emphasis placed on physical presentation and gestures in public speaking Despite his critique, Captain Basilio attributes the young man's lack of finesse to his youth and naiveté He asserts that he hasn't studied Cicero yet, implying that the young man has yet to master rhetoric - He holds that oratory can be developed over time, hinting at potential growth for the young man The young man proceeds with his address, aiming to offer a specific plan or program to the assembly This transition indicates his earlier remarks were only a prelude to a more substantive contribution He tempers expectations, insisting that his plans may not be seen as flawless or universally accepted This humility serves to preempt criticism and shows an awareness of the meeting's varied opinions He expresses a desire to align his views with those of the assembly, more specifically, with the elders By stating that his ideas resonate with those previously discussed with Captain Basilio, he seeks to establish common ground and suggest continuity between generations [the aim is bipartisanship] This strategy aims to bridge the gap between young liberals and old conservatives, positioning his proposal as an extension of the established of the community values instead of a radical departure Members of the conservative party express their approval and pleasure with the young man's speech This indicates their apparent belief that his message resonates with their beliefs and expectations This positive reaction underscores the effectiveness of the young man's approach, which involves showing respect for the conservatives and aligning his ideas with theirs, especially Capt. Basilio's - Their approval suggests the young man managed to maneuver the complex political landscape Captain Basilio mentors the young man, counseling him on his physical presentation and gestures This suggests that he sees potential in him and shows interest in helping him improve his oratory This highlights the importance of nonverbal communication in public speaking [properly using gestures] and suggests that the mastery of such details is valued among the assembly's members The mayor's stillness contrasts with the conservatives' enthusiasm and Captain Basilio's mentorship His detachment could be a result of his possible illness or a general disinterest in the proceedings Encouraged by the positive feedback from the conservative members of the assembly and the nonverbal coaching from Captain Basilio, the young man continues his speech with increasing vigor Reflects his burgeoning confidence, bolstered by the approval of influential figures in the meeting This also signifies his commitment to his proposals, showing he's undeterred by potential criticism 15. cabeza de barangay → the head of a barangay or barrio political unit the Philippines during Spanish rule 9 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal - The young man outlines his proposal for the festival, emphasizing innovation and community benefit He advocates for creating unique and ordinary spectacles, setting it apart from usual entertainment Crucially, he underscores the importance of retaining money within the town, suggesting a shift in spending from transient pleasures (i.e., fireworks) to more sustainable projects aimed at improving the well-being of all residents in the town [reflects a forward-thinking and communal perspective] - The enthusiastic reaction from the liberals demonstrates their strong support for the young man's plan Their agreement underscores a collective desire for change and innovation, reflecting a generational preference for a meaningful investment in their town's future rather than ephemeral entertainment Their vocal support implies they value proposals that promise to enhance the town's overall welfare - Surprisingly, the assembly's conservative members also express approval of the young man's proposal Their positive reaction suggests that the plan's focus on communal betterment and prudent financial management echoes across generational lines, bridging the gap between liberals and conservatives - Their endorsement suggests a recognition of the importance of sustaining the town's well-being - The young man goes on and questions the merit of dedicating an entire week to theater performances His question suggests skepticism about their relevance or benefit to the community and challenges the assumption that such entertainment immediately enriches the festival or the town's cultural life He critiques the content of the proposed theatrical performances, which apparently portray dramatic and violent tales from European history and folklore, involving kings and dramatic acts of violence - He specifically refers to "kings of Bohemia and Granada"16 grotesquely ordering the beheading or execution by cannon17 of princesses [he doubts the educational or moral value of such tales] He emphasizes the cultural and social gap between the play's characters and the Philippine audience - He underscores the community's inability to identify with these stories, pointing out the absurdity of trying to find personal or communal significance in stories far removed from their own values He warns that emulating the actions of characters in these tales risks being hanged in Bagumbayan18 - He cautions against blindly following foreign models or engaging in behaviors that could be seen as subversive or threatening by colonial authorities, underlining the dangers of cultural imitation He questions the relevance and believability of portraying princesses as warriors engaging in battle and undertaking lone adventures in harsh landscapes, since these subvert traditional gender roles - These depictions subvert traditional gender roles and expectations by depicting female characters in roles usually reserved for men in various cultures, particularly in the 19th-century Philippines - He compares these adventurous princesses to the "fallen women of Tikbálang"19 in Filipino myth This comparison implies that such characters might be considered outcasts or morally dubious within the local cultural context, further questioning the societal appropriateness of these tales He shows a cultural preference for women to embody traditional values of softness and tenderness - This underscores a particular set of gender norms and values that prevail in the local community - This contrasts the valorized qualities in women according to local culture, influenced by societal conventions, with the aggressive and independent characteristics of women depicted in the plays Expressing discomfort with the notion of women participating in violence, the speaker suggests that the local community would recoil from physical contact with such figures, regardless of the nobility or heroism of their deeds (e.g., defeating Moors or giants) [shows belief in traditional gender roles] 16. "kings of Bohemia and Granada" → Bohemia is a historical region in the modern-day Czech Republic, while Granada is a city in Spain with a rich Moorish history [the young man could be referencing the dramatic and often tragic stories found in European literature and history, such as those depicted in plays and operas] 17. execution by cannon → "blowing from a gun," an execution method in which the victim is typically tied to the muzzle of a loaded cannon, which is then red, the force of the explosion totally obliterating the victim 18. Bagumbayan → a notorious site where political enemies were executed during the Spanish colonial era; in total, 158 enemies of the state were executed in Bagumbayan, eventually including José Rizal himself; the site is currently part of Rizal Park (also known as Luneta Park) in Manila, which features the Rizal Monument 19. "fallen women of Tikbálang" → the Tikbálang is a mythical creature in Filipino folklore, often described as having the head of a horse and the body of a human [essentially, an inversion of the centaur from Greek mythology]; in this context, "fallen" refers to a woman who has lost her chastity, implying that these women were sexually assaulted [raped] by these mythical creatures, presumably as a result of wandering off alone fi 10 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal - Specifically, they would be appalled to shake the "bloodstained hands" of these warrior maidens - This highlights a perceived incompatibility between the community's values and the narratives being proposed for the festival, especially concerning the roles deemed acceptable for women He asserts a norm that condemns violence against women, regardless of the perpetrator's standing - This statement elevates the discussion from mere preferences in entertainment to broader societal values, underscoring a collective moral stance within the community reflecting their local values He instead suggests using local customs and stories as the foundation for the festival's entertainment - He says this would not only affirm cultural identity but also foster moral and social improvement - By focusing on correcting local shortcomings and promoting virtuous behaviors, he advocates for an art form that mirrors and nurtures the values of the community and betters society as a whole - The young man's liberal supporters vocally reaffirm their agreement, indicating strong endorsement of - - his idealistic vision for a festival that mirrors and uplifts the local community's own culture and values This underscores the potential for consensus around culturally and ethically relevant entertainment Some of the conservatives, reflecting on the young man's words, acknowledge the validity of his points This acknowledgment from a few conservatives suggests that the appeal for cultural authenticity and moral education resonates across generational lines, bridging potential divides within the assembly Captain Basilio expresses realization and admits of not having considered the young man's perspective His admission of the importance of aligning the festival content with local values displays a moment of introspection and potential openness to change, swayed by the young man's compelling argument A skeptical, intransigent conservative objects to the young man's proposal, questioning the feasibility of his idea to include local customs and address community issues through the festival's entertainment The young man responds confidently to the challenge, insisting that he has a straightforward solution His confident and straightforward response exemplifies his preparedness to address the skepticism He introduces two theater pieces he holds will be well-received by the assembly, particularly the elders He expects the elders will positively receive them since they align with local tastes and sensibilities The first proposed piece is a five-act comedy about local politics, specifically on a mayor's election - The fact that it is written by a community local makes it relevant and accessible to the audience - The mention of "The Mayor's Election" as a comedy situates the piece within the realm of social and political relevance, potentially offering a humorous and witty reflection on local governance The second piece is a more ambitious satirical fantasy composed by a famous local poet, spanning nine acts and two nights, based on the local legend of Maria Makiling20 from Philippine mythology - In 1890, Rizal published a rendition of the local legend in the Madrid newspaper La Solidaridad - In one version of the story, Maria Makiling falls in love with a mortal man, but immediately after her father finds out about the affair, he's incensed and prevents her from seeing the mortal again - Since one of the major subplots in the novel concerns the romance between Crisóstomo Ibarra & María Clara, the allusion to Maria Makiling could eerily suggest that they are star-crossed lovers Rizal earlier hinted in Chapter 9 ("National Affairs") at Father Dámaso serving as a potential obstacle to their relationship, and has hinted several times at the lurking possibility of Father Dámaso being the biological father of María Clara [however, this hasn't been confirmed yet] - This may turn out to be a red herring, or it might hint at the truth, but again, it's uncertain He acknowledges the urgency of their situation, noting that the extensive deliberations on the festival's organization have significantly consumed the available time needed for preparations [a call to action] This reflects his awareness of practical constraints and the importance of efficient decision-making In anticipation of potential approval for his proposed plays, the young man reveals that he has already taken the initiative to recruit actors and distribute roles among them [this preemptive action shows a commitment to realizing his vision and an attempt to mitigate the time lost in prolonged discussions] 20. Maria Makiling → in Philippine mythology, Maria Makiling is a diwatà or anito (a nature spirit, equivalent to a nymph in Greek mythology), associated with Mount Makiling, a dormant volcano located on the island of Luzon, in the province of Laguna, Philippines, often considered by locals to be the mountain's guardian spirit; tales about her vary, but she is often depicted as a benevolent protector and guide who can also be vengeful toward those who harm her mountain or take advantage of her kindness; in some tales, she falls in love with a mortal man, only to be betrayed and left heartbroken [Rizal wrote his own version of the story for a paper] 11 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal - He is optimistic that a week of dedicated rehearsals will suffice for the actors to familiarize themselves - - - - - - - with their roles and prepare adequately for the performances [this is a tight, but manageable schedule] This will ensure efficient and concentrated rehearsal processes essential for theatrical performances He says his plan not only introduces fresh and meaningful content but also offers practical benefits in terms of cost-effectiveness [by underscoring the plan's reasonableness and economic efficiency, he is addressing practical concerns about the feasibility and financial implications of his festival proposal] He further elaborates on the economic advantages of his plan by stating that special costumes will not be needed for the performances—instead, actors can wear their everyday clothing [more economical] This reduces production costs and reinforces the relevance of the plays to contemporary local life This stresses the intent to make the theatrical presentations accessible and relatable to the audience - This aligns with the larger goal of reflecting and enriching the community's cultural experience Captain Basilio immediately steps forward with a generous offer to fund the theater, which indicates his strong support for the initiative [this shows his leadership and dedication to community activities] His enthusiasm reflects a drastic shift in the assembly's attitude toward the festival's entertainment, moving from skepticism to active involvement and contribution [persuaded by its possible benefits] Apparently convinced by the plans, the infantry captain, Don Melchor, offers the services of his troops This is possibly for security or logistical support, or perhaps even for roles within the performances This further illustrates the growing momentum and collective effort behind the festival preparations, with members of the meeting willing to contribute their own resources to ensure the event's success Another member of the assembly, identifying himself as an "old man" [likely a conservative], offers his participation, highlighting his eagerness to contribute despite not having a specific role in mind His physical effort to stand tall with dignity underscores his pride and willingness to be involved - This shows that the festival is a communal affair that engages members of all ages and abilities The assembly's response to these offers is overall positive, with many voices shouting their acceptance This indicates overwhelming support for the innovative approach to the festival's entertainment and the collaborative spirit in which community members are willing to share their resources and talents The deputy mayor, Don Filipo, is moved by the strong show of support for the young man's proposal This sympathy indicates that the depth of his reaction is not just professional but deeply personal His physical reaction, turning pale, signifies the intensity of his feelings, possibly a blend of relief [due to his stratagem's efficacy], pride, and maybe surprise at the assembly's unanimous decision The emotional impact on him culminates in tears, a sign of his profound investment in his strategy The one intransigent conservative member of the assembly misinterprets Don Filipo's tears as spiteful This likely suggests he's projecting his own feelings of rivalry or opposition onto the deputy mayor Despite his misinterpretation, the intransigent conservative joins the chorus of approval, declaring the proposal accepted without further debate [shows the overwhelming consensus that has been achieved] However, he sees the situation as a personal victory, interpreting the outcome as revenge against the deputy mayor and celebrating what he sees as the defeat of an adversary [he's glaringly competitive] - He views the meeting through the lens of personal rivalry rather than collective decision-making In a turn of events, the intransigent conservative openly commends the young man's plan, indicating a shift from opposition to support [this marks a moment of consensus that transcends previous divisions] This seeming change of heart, whether genuine or strategic, contributes to the meeting's united front The young man, having outlined the festival's proposed entertainment, provides additional suggestions He proposes allotting a fifth of the proceeds earned from the festival to reward excellence in various community roles, including students and local workers, such as shepherds, farmers, fishermen, etc. - This promotes community spirit, as he sees the value of diverse contributions to the town's life He suggests establishing a variety of physical and recreational activities that can engage different segments of the community, including those who don't usually partake in the festival's more formal or artistic events, including river and lake regattas, horse racing, greased poles, and other activities - These events are designed to be inclusive, fostering a sense of belonging and community pride Acknowledging the conventional expectations for festival celebrations, he includes fireworks in the plans [this shows a willingness to blend new, innovative ideas with deep-seated, traditional customs] - He's aware of the importance of upholding certain traditions to ensure broader community support - Though he ultimately accepts them, he supports fireworks that create visually appealing displays (i.e., wheels and castles) over more explosive and potentially disruptive ones (i.e., large rockets) 12 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal Shows his thoughtful approach to balancing spectacle with safety and community preferences He proposes limiting the musical entertainment to two bands, suggesting this number should suffice - to provide festive atmosphere [this demonstrates his strategic approach to budgeting and planning] - This shows his more economical focus on quality over quantity in order to liven up the festival - He emphasizes a problem with hiring too many musicians: disputes over payment and treatment that can lead to conflict and dissatisfaction [by reducing the number of bands, the proposal aims to ensure fair compensation and treatment for the musicians, avoiding such negative outcomes] Finally, he proposes using the remaining proceeds from the festival to begin constructing a school - Notably, he ironically remarks about the community's passivity in waiting for divine intervention - This news is particularly hopeful, since it would fulfill the schoolmaster's earlier wish in the last chapter for a separate facility where he can teach without the presence and influence of the priest He contrasts the community's well-maintained cockpit with the inadequate space currently used for children's education, criticizing the misplaced priorities that value religious activities over education - This highlights the need for reallocating resources to better serve the community's future interests As he finishes his proposal, he presents a draft plan and invites the assembly to review and emend it - This encourages collective participation and responsibility in finalizing the plans, underlining the communal nature of the festival and the proposed projects [this shows his preemptive proaction] The assembly's response to the young man's proposal is animated and widespread throughout the room This indicates a strong interest and engagement with the ideas presented [the murmuring signifies a mix of reactions, through primarily positive, as members in the meeting discuss among themselves] The majority consensus is in favor of the young man's proposal, suggesting that his ideas resonate with the broader desires and needs of the community, particularly in practical and meaningful investments Only a minority show doubts [obviously, this highlights a generational divide or resistance to change] Some members of the assembly view the acceptance of the young man's proposal as a strategic move This is to outmaneuver the other "straw man" proposal made by Don Filipo that had been rejected This demonstrates political maneuvering and alliances at play within the decision-making process The assembly relays their collective decision to Don Filipo, illustrating their support for the proposal The assembly reaches a unanimous decision, a rare moment of unity that underscores the compelling nature of the young man's proposal and the assembly's collective recognition of its communal value Only one obstacle stands in the way of implementing the proposal, specifically the mayor's approval This emphasizes his role as the ultimate authority in the decision-making process and the potential for a single individual to influence community initiatives [ultimately, the mayor issues the last say] The mayor's discomfort and anxiety reflect the pressure of the moment and possibly internal conflict The mayor tentatively shares agreement but hesitates, indicating either reservations about the proposal or reluctance to confront opposing views [his hesitation and cough imply his doubts on a firm stance] The assembly's silent attention indicates anticipation of the mayor's final decision [he has the last say] Captain Basilio seeks clarification on the mayor's hesitant agreement, sensing the mayor's reluctance He is prompting him to elaborate on what is holding him back from wholly endorsing the proposal Torn internally, the mayor tries to agree with the assembly's consensus but then contradicts himself This internal conflict indicates he has reservations and external pressures influencing his decision The gesture of the mayor rubbing his eyes indicates fatigue, stress, or exasperation, emphasizing the pressure he feels in making a choice that opposes powerful figures' preferences or established norms The mayor finally discloses the source of the hesitation: the priest's differing wishes for the festival This reveals the significant influence of the church and its representatives on local governance and community events [recall that the priest wields authority and influence over the town of San Diego] A voice questions the rationale behind prioritizing the priest's desires over the community's consensus He stresses the townspeople's financial contributions and questions the priest's festival investments The meeting's focus shifts to the man who posed these questions, who is revealed to be Don Anastasio This lends weight to his pressing critique given his reputation for wisdom and philosophical insight Don Filipo focuses his attention on the mayor [this indicates apprehension about how he will respond] Captain Basilio directly asks about the priest's specific wishes for the festival, indicating a readiness to confront or at least understand the religious authority's [the priest's] influence over community events The mayor outlines the priest's demands: six processions, three sermons, three high masses, and if any money is left over, a few secular activities (i.e., a Tondo performance with songs in the intermissions) 13 Chapter 20 DISCUSSION NOTES Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal These heavily emphasize religious ceremonies and events, leaving secular or community-focused activities as an afterthought, only to be considered if funds remain [they might not be done at all] This underscores the priest's prioritization of religious observance over other forms of celebration - The following response from both young and some older members of the assembly shows a collective dissatisfaction with the priest's plan [they really want a festival that better reflects communal interests] - The mayor reiterates the priest's demands, underscoring the authority the priest holds over the town's - - - - affairs and perhaps the pressure he feels to comply with these wishes in spite of community sentiment He admits to having already agreed to the priest's demands, suggesting a lack of autonomy or the perception that the priest's authority supersedes the local townspeople's decision-making process One person questions the meeting's purpose if the mayor had already committed to the priest's plans The mayor responds, saying that the meeting was convened not to solicit input or debate the festival's organization but merely to inform the townspeople of the choices already made [this underscores the performative aspect of such assemblies in a context where church authority influences civil matters] The person shows frustration and confusion, questioning why the mayor didn't immediately disclose the priest's demands, which would have saved time and avoided the previous buildup of expectations The mayor attempts to justify his silence, acknowledging he was waiting for the right time to speak, which never came due to Captain Basilio taking the floor first [or perhaps due to his prior coughing] His emphasis on obedience to the curate reflects his obligation to comply with religious authority, even when it conflicts community consensus [shows the authority the priests wield over the town] Resigned, some of the conservatives acknowledge that the priest's authority should not be questioned A few bring up the threat of legal repercussions for disobedience, specifically being thrown in jail - The mention of the threat of the magistrate throwing them in prison for disobedience illustrates the extent of the church's influence over civil matters and the fear it instills in the townspeople The young liberals, on the other hand, respond with defiance and withdrawal, expressing their refusal to participate in a festival dictated solely by the priest's preferences [their readiness to retract financial contributions signifies a breaking point in their willingness to accommodate the church's overreach] However, the mayor reveals to them that the contributions are final and have already been collected - This serves as a subtle warning that their threat to withdraw support may have no practical effect - This underscores the finality of their situation, as they're unable to retract their financial support Don Filipo confronts the mayor, showing his profound disappointment and contrasting their sacrifices Although he was willing to compromise for the greater good of the town, he believes the mayor has compromised his integrity for unworthy demands, leading to a negative outcome for the community Crisóstomo, disillusioned by the meeting's outcome, instantly decides to leave for the provincial capital His quick reaction likely implies a desire to take immediate action or escape the frustrating situation His question to the schoolmaster suggests he may be looking for company or assistance as he leaves The schoolmaster asks for clarification about the urgency or intent of the trip to the provincial capital Crisóstomo responds to the schoolmaster's clarification by choosing to emphasize "we" instead of "I" This reply hints at a collective action or purpose that involves more than just his personal interests His mysterious tone as he says this suggests that he has a plan or intention he isn't ready to disclose The chapter ends with Don Anastasio and Don Filipo on the road, reflecting on the meeting's outcome Don Anastasio attributes part of the blame to themselves for not opposing the appointment of a weak or subservient figure as mayor [specifically, he says to Don Filipo he was given "a slave for a boss"] - Drawing an analogy to chess, the mayor is nothing more than the bishop's pawn on a chessboard The parish priest (i.e., the bishop) is the religious authority, and the mayor is merely its pawn - His comment on accepting a "slave for a boss" critiques the lack of resistance to oppressive or inadequate leadership, implying that their complacency contributed to the current predicament 14