# The Wedding explained — El Filibusterismo

> Chapter companion for El Filibusterismo by José Rizal.

## What happens

Basilio wanders the streets after his release from prison, contemplating the impending catastrophe Simoun has planned. He observes the wedding procession of Juanito Pelaez and Paulita Gomez, which is being held at the former house of Capitan Tiago, now transformed into a lavish venue. Basilio recognizes Simoun carrying the lamp and follows him, realizing the wedding is the target of the plot.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class and Racial Inequality

Don Timoteo's obsession with European decor and avoidance of Filipino artists highlights the colonial mentality and class divisions.

### Revenge and Radicalization

Basilio's thoughts of destruction and his embrace of the revolver reflect his radicalization after Juli's death and his imprisonment.

### Hypocrisy of Religious Institutions

The wedding's religious ceremony contrasts with the violent plot and the moral decay of the elite guests.

## Character check-ins

### Basilio

Wanders the streets after prison, contemplating the catastrophe and following Simoun to the wedding.

### Simoun

Carries the lamp to the wedding venue, orchestrating the plot.

### Juanito Pelaez

The groom, seen in a carriage with Paulita Gomez after the church ceremony.

### Paulita Gomez

The bride, dressed in white with a veil, riding with Juanito Pelaez.

### Isagani

Mentioned as having disappeared that morning; Basilio thinks of him as a friend who would not participate in the plot.

### Don Timoteo Pelaez

The father of the groom, hosting the wedding and reaching the pinnacle of his fortune.

## Key lines

> Don Timoteo Pelaez was reaching the pinnacle of fortune, and the reality surpassed his dreams.

Don Timoteo Pelaez had achieved the height of success, exceeding even his own expectations.

_Highlights the social ascent of Don Timoteo through the wedding._

> The ghost of Julî, crushed in her fall, crossed his mind, and dark flames of hatred lighted his eyes; again he caressed the butt of the revolver, regretting that the terrible hour had not yet come.

Basilio remembered Juli's tragic death, fueling his hatred, and he touched his revolver, wishing the moment of destruction would arrive sooner.

_Shows Basilio's motivation for revenge and his emotional state._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/el_filibusterismo_se/chapters/xxxiv-the-wedding
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/el_filibusterismo_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/el_filibusterismo_se/chapters