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ACT08.LIFE AND WORKS OF RIZAL
ACT08.LIFE AND WORKS OF RIZAL
b. Description: Capitan Tiago is a wealthy and influential Filipino mestizo. He is known for
his affluence, generosity, and social connections, particularly with the Spanish colonial
authorities and the clergy. He is outwardly pious and devoutly religious, maintaining a facade
of being a dedicated Catholic. His wealth and status make him a prominent figure in society,
but he is also portrayed as somewhat cowardly and subservient to the Spanish authorities.
c. Role in the novel: Capitan Tiago is the father figure to Maria Clara, who is actually the
daughter of Padre Damaso. He plays a crucial role as the host of the welcome dinner for
Crisostomo Ibarra, the protagonist, upon his return to the Philippines from Europe. His
actions and decisions are heavily influenced by his desire to maintain his social status and
favor with the Spanish authorities. Capitan Tiago's household and relationships provide a
backdrop for many key events and interactions in the novel.
Capitan Tiago: (Greeting his guests with a broad smile) "Señores y señoras, welcome to my
humble abode! Please, make yourselves at home. It is an honor to have such esteemed guests
under my roof."
Padre Damaso: (Turning to Capitan Tiago, with an air of familiarity) "Tiago, my friend, you
have outdone yourself once again. This feast is truly a testament to your generosity and
devotion."
Capitan Tiago: (Bowing slightly) "Thank you, Padre Damaso. It is only by the grace of God
and the blessings of the Church that I am able to host such gatherings. Please, enjoy the food
and wine."
Narrator: As the evening progresses, Capitan Tiago mingles with his guests, ensuring
everyone is comfortable and well-fed. His attentiveness and hospitality mask the underlying
tensions and hidden agendas of the evening.
Capitan Tiago: (To Maria Clara) "My dear Maria Clara, you are the light of my life. Make
sure to greet our guests and show them the respect they deserve."
Narrator: After days of searching for his missing brother Crispin, Basilio returns home to
find his mother, Sisa, in a state of madness. Sisa, driven insane by the loss of her sons and the
abuses she suffered, roams the streets, calling out for her children.
Basilio: (Approaching Sisa cautiously) "Inay... Inay, it's me, Basilio. I'm here."
Sisa: (Her eyes wide with madness, not recognizing her son) "Basilio? Crispin? Where are
my children? They took them away!"
Basilio: (Tears streaming down his face, trying to embrace her) "Inay, it's me, your Basilio.
Please, look at me. I'm here now."
Sisa: (Pushing him away, confused and frightened) "No, no! They said my sons are gone!
They said I am alone!"
Narrator: The tragic scene unfolds as Basilio tries desperately to comfort his mother, who
cannot recognize him in her madness. The pain and suffering they endure symbolize the
broader social injustices of the time.
Basilio: (Crying, with a mix of desperation and determination) "I will find Crispin, Inay. I
promise you, I will find him, and we will be together again."
Sisa: (Suddenly calming, a fleeting moment of clarity in her eyes) "Basilio... My Basilio...
Take care of your brother."
Narrator: The heartbreaking reunion between Basilio and Sisa highlights the enduring
love and bond between mother and son, even in the face of overwhelming tragedy. This
moment serves as a poignant commentary on the human cost of colonial oppression and the
resilience of the human spirit.