Literary Devices in Esperanza Rising

Questions and Answers

What is foreshadowing?

Occurs when a writer provides hints that suggest future events in a story.

What could Mama's change after the storm foreshadow?

This could mean that in future events Mama will be sick because coughing a lot most likely means you are sick.

What is Valley Fever?

Valley Fever is a disease of the lungs caused by dust spores which might cause infection.

Why does Mama get Valley Fever when no one else does?

Mama's body might not have been used to the dust spores because some people can't fight off the infection. Signup and view all the answers

What is Esperanza fearful of?

She is fearful because Mama might die and she could only recite the words, 'if she survives'. Signup and view all the answers

What symbolism can you find on page 160, and how does it connect to Esperanza's life?

Crocheting the mountains and valleys made Esperanza wonder if she would ever escape her valley. Signup and view all the answers

What happens as the blanket Esperanza is making grows bigger?

Mama got more pale as the blanket got bigger. Signup and view all the answers

How does Esperanza feel about her once strong and determined mother changing?

She feels real bad because if someone in your family gave up hope, you would feel like giving up on them. Signup and view all the answers

What does Esperanza help Isabel make for Silvia's Christmas gift?

Esperanza helps by making a yarn doll for Silvia. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three things Esperanza wants for Christmas?

<ol> <li>Mama to get well 2) More work for her 3) Soft hands</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

What does Isabel want for Christmas?

Isabel wants anything. Signup and view all the answers

'Isabel had nothing, but she also had everything.' Why does Esperanza want what Isabel has?

She wouldn't have many worries and 'something as simple as a yarn doll would make her happy'. Signup and view all the answers

Where had the doctor moved Mama?

He moved her to the ward for long term illnesses. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Foreshadowing and Symbolism

Foreshadowing provides hints about future events in a narrative, creating anticipation.
Mama's persistent coughing following a storm may foreshadow a serious illness in the future, suggesting that her health will deteriorate.

Health and Illness

Valley Fever is a lung disease triggered by inhaling dust spores, potentially leading to infection.
Mama's susceptibility to Valley Fever may stem from her unfamiliarity with dust spores, highlighting individual differences in immunity.
Esperanza fears for her mother’s life, repeating the hopeful phrase, "if she survives."

Esperanza's Emotions and Personal Growth

While crocheting mountains and valleys, Esperanza reflects on her struggles, questioning if she can ever truly escape her hardships, symbolized by the continuous return to valleys after climbing mountains.
As Esperanza's blanket grows larger, Mama's health declines, illustrating the emotional connection between their fates.
Esperanza feels deep sorrow seeing her once-strong mother seemingly give up, potentially mirroring her own feelings of hopelessness.

Christmas Wishes and Relationships

Esperanza contributes to a Christmas gift by crafting a yarn doll for Isabel's sister, Silvia, representing her desire to foster joy despite hardship.
Esperanza's three Christmas wishes focus on family well-being: Mama's recovery, increased work opportunities, and longing for softness in her own hands, highlighting her desire for comfort and normalcy.
Isabel desires "anything" for Christmas, reflecting her lack of material possessions but also an appreciation for simple joys.
Esperanza envies Isabel's carefree perspective, believing that lack of worries would bring her happiness through the simplicity of a yarn doll.

Medical Care and Support

The doctor has transferred Mama to a long-term illness ward, indicating a serious concern for her health and the need for specialized care.

Description

Explore the themes of foreshadowing, symbolism, and personal growth in 'Esperanza Rising'. This quiz delves into how these literary devices enhance the narrative and shape the characters' experiences, particularly the bond between Esperanza and her mother amidst illness and adversity.