Esperanza's Struggles and Symbolism

In Chapter 12, Esperanza faces the challenges of working amidst a strike. The strikers, led by Marta, are organized and determined to disrupt the asparagus harvest. Esperanza fears losing her job, which is crucial for her family's survival. The strikers use dangerous tactics, such as placing snakes and razor blades in the asparagus crates, to slow down the workers. An immigration sweep occurs, targeting the strikers, and Esperanza makes a difficult decision to help Marta hide. The chapter ends with Esperanza reflecting on the injustice of deporting people for speaking their minds and the uncertainty of the future.

What is the main concern of Esperanza at the beginning of the chapter?

• Losing her job and its impact on her family

• The weather affecting the harvest

• The quality of the asparagus

• Her mother's health improving

How do the strikers try to disrupt the workers?

• By offering them better jobs

• By providing them with food

• By throwing rocks and creating a tense atmosphere

• By helping them with their work

What dangerous items do the strikers hide in the asparagus crates?

• Food and water

• Money and jewelry

• Tools and equipment

• Rats and snakes

What is the purpose of the immigration sweep?

• To provide jobs for new immigrants

• To offer citizenship to workers

• To improve working conditions

• To capture strikers and deport them

Why is Esperanza worried about the deportation of some people?

• They are causing trouble for the government

• They are American citizens being sent to Mexico

• They are not working hard enough

• They are not paying taxes

What is the reaction of the workers to the immigration sweep?

• They are relieved it is not them

• They join the strikers

• They protest against the officials

• They leave their jobs

What does Esperanza do to help Marta?

• She hides her and provides a disguise

• She gives her money to escape

• She advises her to leave the country

• She reports her to the authorities

What does the broken pinata symbolize at the end of the chapter?

• The success of the harvest

• The joy of the children

• The unity of the workers

• The broken spirits of the strikers

Why does Esperanza feel conflicted about the strikers?

• She wants to join them but is afraid of the consequences

• She believes they are wrong but admires their courage

• She agrees with their cause but fears losing her job

• She dislikes their methods but supports their goals

What does Esperanza hope for Marta and her mother?

• That they leave the country

• That they find new jobs

• That they are reunited

• That they join the workers