Questions and Answers
Who is Esperanza Ortega?
What does Miguel believe about living in the United States?
Living in the United States, even as a poor farmer, is better than living in Mexico.
Which event causes Esperanza and her mother to move to California?
What illness does Ramona Ortega suffer from?
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Who helps Esperanza's family get work after their ranch burns down?
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Abuelita makes the trip to California with Esperanza and her mother.
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Who is Marta and what does she advocate for?
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What is unique about Mr. Yokota's shop?
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Marta's mom is named _____
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Match the characters with their descriptions:
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Tío Luis and Tío Marco are supportive of Esperanza and her family.
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Study Notes
Main Characters in "Esperanza Rising"
- Esperanza Ortega: Protagonist, 13 years old; grew up in a wealthy ranch in Mexico; struggles after her father's death and adapting to life as a poor farm worker in California.
- Miguel: Son of Alfonso and Hortensia; childhood friend of Esperanza; believes life in the U.S. offers more opportunities despite being poor.
- Ramona Ortega: Esperanza's mother; devastated by loss; refuses to marry cruel brother-in-law; demonstrates strength and resilience; later suffers from Valley Fever.
- Sixto Ortega: Esperanza's father; known for his generosity; killed by robbers, prompting the family's move to California.
- Abuelita: Esperanza's grandmother; lives with them on the ranch; injured after house burning; eventually brought to California by Miguel.
- Marisol Rodriguez: Esperanza's best friend in Mexico; unable to say goodbye due to secrecy surrounding their departure.
Supporting Characters
- Alfonso: Miguel's father; worked on Esperanza's family's ranch; supports Esperanza and her mother in California.
- Hortensia: Miguel's mother; household worker on the ranch; her relationship with Esperanza changes once they relocate.
- Tío Luis and Tío Marco: Antagonists; Papa's brothers; responsible for ruining Esperanza's life by burning her house and plotting to take her away from her mother.
- Juan and Josafina: Relatives who assist Esperanza’s family find work in California after the ranch’s destruction.
- Isabel: Juan and Josafina’s 8-year-old daughter; starts off annoying to Esperanza but becomes a source of support in her new life.
Additional Characters and Their Roles
- Pepe and Lupe: Isabel's twin siblings; add to Esperanza's challenges as she assumes caregiving duties.
- Marta: Initial antagonist to Esperanza; leads strikes for fair treatment; ultimately, Esperanza aids her escape during a raid.
- Ada: Marta's mother; supportive of Esperanza despite prior tensions.
- Silvia: Isabel's close friend.
Other Key Figures and Concepts
- Carmen: A peasant met during travel; demonstrates kindness despite her poverty by helping Esperanza's mother.
- Señor Rodriguez: Marisol's father; connected to Sixto Ortega.
- Mr. Yokota: Inclusive shop owner; serves all races and cultures, promoting equality.
- American doctor: Medical professional who diagnoses Ramona with Valley Fever.
- Campesinos: Term for field workers, representing the agricultural labor force.
- Renegades: Individuals who believe in taking from the rich to support the poor, reflecting social justice themes.
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Description
Explore the key characters from 'Esperanza Rising' through these flashcards. Learn about Esperanza Ortega, her journey, and the important figures in her life as she navigates her new reality in California. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of the novel.
