The phrase "penultimate chapter" refers to the chapter in a book that comes right before the final chapter. It is the second-to-last chapter of the book. Full definition
But then in the next and penultimate chapter, Barr provides, in a brief outline dominated by quotations, the essentials of David Brown's thinking, «an ideal example of a type of theology with which I would be very happy for my own work to be associated,» as he terms it in his preface. (firstthings.com)
Although Bloom's Cornell experiences are not recounted in detail until a diatribe in the penultimate chapter, bitterness over them, and resentments toward colleagues who failed to sustain his ideals, are apparent throughout the book. (religion-online.org)
The penultimate chapter of this book continues to challenge the reader to reflect upon the tensions found within the formalised education system which prevent true unity. (faith.org.uk)