ER (58-72) “Why was she apologizing to these people?”

Yesterday we discussed the symbolism of the figs. What happened to the figs at the end of the chapter and why is this significant?

Answer explanation

EX: Esperanza splattered figs under her feet as she fled the ranch, a symbol of her resentment toward Tío Luis and being forced to leave the security of the ranch.

History of Mexico <1930

The first part of the book takes place in Mexico, mostly in Aguascalientes, a region in

the central part of the country.

• War of independence: Spain is defeated and Mexico is founded. It is larger

  than today and includes the present-day US Southwest.

• Spain conquers the Aztecs and establishes the Spanish Empire in Mexico.

  They control and discriminate against native people (“Indians”).

• Mexico loses Mexican-American War and gives up Texas, California, New

  Mexico, and Arizona. 50 years of rule by dictators in Mexico follows.

• Mexican-American War begins: it is caused by US trying to annex Texas.

Answer explanation

History of Mexico <1930

The first part of the book takes place in Mexico, mostly in Aguascalientes, a region in

the central part of the country.

• Mexican Revolution begins: Campesinos (poor farm workers) promised

  rights if they win. They do and the last dictator is forced out.

• Adoption of the Mexican Constitution, but there is continued conflict.

• Period of relative prosperity and stability begins.

Answer explanation

What is the phoenix?

Answer explanation

1. The phoenix is a mythical bird that symbolizes rebirth and renewal. In "Esperanza Rising," it represents Esperanza's ability to rise above her challenges and start anew after her father's death and their family's struggles.

Abuelita compared the peaks and valleys in her crocheted blanket to the hardships and pleasures of life. This is an example of what literary device?

Answer explanation

Abuelita compared the peaks and valleys in her crocheted blanket to the hardships and pleasures of life. This is an example of a metaphor, as she uses the blanket to symbolize the ups and downs of life's experiences.

Gender roles have played a part in Tío Luis’ behavior. What is a gender role?

Answer explanation

Gender roles are societal norms that dictate how individuals should behave based on their gender. In "Esperanza Rising," Tío Luis exhibits traditional male dominance, which influences his actions and decisions.

What is caste?

Answer explanation

A caste is a social class system that divides people into groups based on their birth and social status. In the story, the caste system affects the characters' lives and opportunities.

The Aztecs were an indigenous (or native) tribe that established an empire in Mexico around 1200. Who conquered the Aztecs in 1521?

Answer explanation

The Aztecs were conquered by Hernán Cortés in 1521, which led to significant changes in the region.

How did Mexico change in 1821? 

Answer explanation

Mexico changed in 1821 by gaining independence from Spanish rule, which allowed for the establishment of a new government and society.

What happened to the caste system after Mexican independence? 

Answer explanation

After Mexican independence, the caste system was officially abolished, but social inequalities and divisions continued to affect people's lives.