Citation: "Ramona (Chapter 4)" -Helen Hunt Jackson p.269-278
Character Analysis of Ramona: Ramona is described with immense amount of beauty and purity, but she never deemed herself as beautiful, she thought everyone was just showing "simple kindness and goodwill" (273). She is of both Indian and Mexican blood, and is highly cherished by all that she knows. She has an optimistic and helpful to all (offered to help Margarita when she destroyed the alter-cloth). She was also jealous of beauty and stared at Felipe in jealousy, which deterred him. Ramona treated all with equality, even her maid Margarita.
Setting and Time: US Government were taking control of Mexican and Indian land. The land is bountiful, with fruit trees, groves, blossoms. Father viewed it as a "beautiful picture," however he sighed as their customs and laws were changing, and "aliens" (Americans) were taking what was theirs. He grieved over the loss of their Missions and cherished lands.
Religion and Culture: A strong Catholic religion inferred from the mentions of Virgin and understanding of Mexican culture. Region was highly cherished *and feared (Senorita Margarita was terrified about the destroyed alter-cloth which Senora Moreno cherished) Elders were respected and obeyed. Senora Morena had maids that tended for the house and its people, Margarita being one of them, around the same age as Ramona. Traditions included family dinners where everyone must join, traveling by flesh "walking" and well-dressed visits to the church.
Personification of Mustard Plant: the mustard plant is described as a beautiful plant but a weed as well. The "plant is a tyrant and a nuisance... tak[ing] possession of a whole field in a season" (271) This can be a metaphor for the white race expanding and taking over Spanish and Indian lands however, the plants golden color and beauty keep it from being exterminated ...... on a side note: later Ramona rushes through the weeds, almost like hope. She stood beautifully and the golden weed enhanced her beauty.
No comments:
Post a Comment