Chapter Summary - El Fili
Chapter 12: Placido Penitente
The University of Sto. Tomas (UST) during the Spanish period was in Intramuros, near the College of San Juan de Letran.Christmas Break was over, and the students were returning to their schools and dreading their Physics class.
Why did Placido wish to stop his schooling? After four years of school, he was not known nor noticed by his teachers. He was disillusioned because he was bright and wished to lean. In his town, he was admired for his intellect.
What does his name mean? Placid or Peaceful. Penitent, or one who suffers... "in silence."
Why did Pelaez hint that Padre Camorra has his way with women in Tiani? The friars threatened the women, and told them that their brothers/parents would be jailed or banished if they did not yield to the desires of the friars.
Why would Juli eventually fall into the hands of Padre Camorra? Pelaez was well-aware of what Padre Camorra was capable of doing.
What did Rizal say about the youth of that time? Most of them learn nothing because (a) They didn't bring books, (b) The classes were too big (too many students), (c) Teachers held the students in low-esteem, and (d) There were too many "No Class" days.
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