Chapter 17: Basilio
Basilio came home with a wounded head. He told Sisa, his mother, that he was hit by
stray bullet on her way home. When asked about his younger brother, Crispin, Basilio
confessed that Crispin was accused of stealing 2 silver. Sisa was worried with the
thought of Crispin spending the night at the Convent.
Basilio did not eat his supper for he found out that his father briefly came home. He was
afraid that his father had physically hurt his mother again.
That night, Basilio had a nightmare. He saw Crispin beaten up by the Priest and the head
of the altar boys. Crispin tried to fight back but he was beaten on the head and lost
consciousness.
Basilio did not tell Sisa about that night but he told her that he is planning to work for
Crisostomo Ibarra. This, according to him, will help take them out of poverty. He was
full of hope and dreams. Sisa was sad that Basilio did not include his father in all his
plans.
Questions:
1. This chapter shows the bond that keeps Sisa, Basilio and Crispin together. This bond
helps strengthen their characters in the story. This motivates them to keep on living.
Describe that love they have for each other.
2. What happen to Basilio? Did he flee the convent? Do you think the guards
(Spaniards) will be looking for him?
3. Interpret Basilio’s dream?
4. What is Basilio’s plan?