Summary
Highlights
A long line of people eagerly await entry to the theater. Despite the public's eagerness, certain friars led by Padre Salvi and some unaffiliated individuals led by Don Custodio oppose the play's staging.
The audience is happy, except for Isagani, who sees Paulita with his rival Juanito. The general arrives, and the French actress Gertrude performs. Juanito struggles to translate French to Spanish for Doña Victorina and Paulita. He tries to impress them by explaining the words 'servant' and 'domestic,' but when twelve young women dressed in fine attire, led by Sir Poet, come out as 'servant,' Paulita questions his explanation, exposing his error and embarrassing him. Despite this, Doña Victorina is still impressed.
After the performance, students like Sandoval and Isagani remain. Tadeo approaches Don Custodio, and Macaraig meets with Pepay. The students discuss the play, particularly the French language's lack of richness compared to Spanish. Macaraig then presents a letter from Pepay, which Sandoval reads. The letter indicates that his petition was approved, hinting at a positive outcome for the students' plans.
The students feel despair after hearing the news. They learn that their involvement in the academy's management will be limited to collecting contributions and submitting them to the treasurer. They are ironically referred to as "Cabeza de Barangay" and are expected to celebrate with a parade and salutation, thanking everyone involved, which highlights the perceived futility of their efforts.
Basilio does not attend the theater. He stays at Kapitan Tiago's house to care for him, who is in critical condition. While Basilio is reading a medical book, Simoun arrives.