Esperanza Rising Themes and Characters

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Questions and Answers

Why does Isabel compare Queen of the May and Esperanza as la reina?

Isabel believes Esperanza was a queen because she was rich in Mexico and had expensive things, so she wants to have the attention or status to know what it feels like.

Compare/contrast the reactions of Esperanza and Miguel to the treatment of Mexicans.

Both recognize that Mexicans are treated by how they look; Esperanza doesn't like it and is not used to it.

Describe Esperanza's rant on page 221. What does Miguel feel hearing her statements?

He feels second-class; he has hope now; Esperanza lists all the bad things and feels like Miguel doesn't get it; she feels like he is ignoring her.

Is Miguel's reasoning convincing when he tells his father he is going to Northern California to look for railroad work?

We could infer that Miguel is mad at Esperanza, so he leaves. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Esperanza tell Isabel, 'I want you to have something that will last more than one day'?

She wants to give Isabel something that will last forever, unlike the Queen of the May. Signup and view all the answers

What can you say about Esperanza's reaction when she discovers the money orders are missing?

She is shocked and her mouth drops. Signup and view all the answers

How does Esperanza feel when Miguel first steps off the bus from Los Angeles?

She is happy to see him but pretends to be mad. Signup and view all the answers

How does Esperanza's attitude toward Miguel change when she realizes he brought Abuelita to California?

She is really happy; she was going to do it anyway. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the importance of Esperanza's explanation as she retells the journey over the past year.

When she gets to California, she does not accept the circumstances; now she does. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance in the time span of fruits and vegetables?

They reflect the harvest seasons of the crops. Signup and view all the answers

Why did the author name the last chapter like the first chapter? How does this relate to the timeline of the story?

It shows that she has grown, and a year passes by to end on her birthday. Signup and view all the answers

What change in Esperanza do you notice when she experiences the moment with Miguel regarding the quote her dad told her?

It means to lay down and listen to the Earth's heartbeat; now she is telling Miguel to. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important that Esperanza is not afraid to start over?

It signifies that she has changed and now understands what Abuelita told her a long time ago. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Comparison of Isabel and Esperanza

Isabel compares Esperanza to the "Queen of the May," reflecting her desire for recognition and status.
Esperanza's past wealth in Mexico influences Isabel's admiration and longing for a royal-like identity.

Reactions to Discrimination

Both Esperanza and Miguel are aware of the discriminatory treatment faced by Mexicans based on appearance.
Esperanza struggles with her discontent, highlighting her discomfort with being marginalized.

Esperanza’s Rant

Esperanza expresses frustration, listing grievances about their situation, revealing feelings of isolation.
Miguel feels hopeful despite her complaints, indicating a difference in their perspectives on their circumstances.

Miguel’s Decision

Miguel's choice to seek work in Northern California illustrates his frustration, particularly with Esperanza’s attitude.
This decision suggests underlying tension between Miguel and Esperanza.

Esperanza's Gift to Isabel

Esperanza wants to provide Isabel with something enduring, contrasting with the fleeting nature of the "Queen of the May" title.
This desire symbolizes Esperanza's growth and understanding of meaningful connections.

Discovery of Missing Money Orders

Esperanza is shocked by the missing money orders; her reaction highlights her vulnerability and concern for family stability.

Initial Joy Upon Seeing Miguel

Upon Miguel's arrival, Esperanza feels genuine happiness but pretends to be upset, illustrating complex feelings about their relationship.

Change in Attitude Towards Miguel

Learning that Miguel brought Abuelita to California transforms Esperanza’s feelings, marking a moment of joy and renewed appreciation.

Retelling of Journey

Esperanza’s reflection on her past year underscores her acceptance of hardships and personal growth throughout their struggles in California.

Significance of Crop Seasons

The timeline of fruits and vegetables represents the cycles of harvest, paralleling the characters' growth and endurance through changing seasons.

Chapter Naming Significance

The final chapter mirrors the title of the first, symbolizing Esperanza’s development and the passage of a year leading up to her birthday.

Understanding Earth’s Heartbeat

Esperanza evolves from misunderstanding her father's wisdom to embodying it, as she now teaches Miguel to appreciate life’s rhythms.

Importance of Starting Over

Esperanza's willingness to embrace a fresh start demonstrates her transformation, reflecting her newfound understanding of resilience and her Abuelita’s lessons.

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Description

Explore the complex relationships and themes in 'Esperanza Rising' through the comparison of Isabel and Esperanza. Examine their responses to discrimination and the contrasting perspectives on their situations. This quiz delves into character motivations and the significance of hope and identity.