< The rhythmic back-and-forth of Esperanza's emotions mimics the cyclical nature of the novel - when bad things happen, it is important to look ahead because good things await in the future. She has no reason to assume her fortunes will ever change, but her father's murder throws her into a world devoid of all the material comforts she has taken for granted. Sixto Ortega is the wealthy landowner of El Rancho de las Rosas in Aguascalientes, Mexico. death. } Esperanza has never wanted for anything; she has lived as a queen. How do familial relations influence how we view and interact in the world? Teach your students to analyze literature like LitCharts does. When her father dies, her life turns upside down. To introduce some of these important differences ask students to take part in a short dramatic sketch reenacting Esperanza'sbirthday party. 20% Esperanza Rising is also set in the midst of the Great Depression that affected much of the world in the 1930s. Major Theme This story shows how, despite set backs, people can overcome anything. Subscribe now. When her father, a wealthy rancher, dies after being attacked by bandits outside their familys ranch in Aguascalientes, Mexico, Esperanza, her mother Ramona, and her Abuelita (grandmother) lose everything. Life is not always simple. Those with Spanish blood, who have the fairest complexions in the land, are the wealthiest. Students may also want to trace the route of the trip to the United States on a map. However, Esperanza comes to appreciate Why does Esperanza's story resonate today? CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.R.6. While the previous activities have been directed at the setting and historical context of Esperanza Rising, the goal of this activity is to focus student attention on the literary qualities of the novel as well as the larger themes and the lessons learned by Esperanza from her experiences. he said, sounding surprised. Her grandmother, Abuelita, lives with the family, and they are attended by a housekeeper, Hortensia, and several farm workers, including Hortensias husband, Alfonso, and their son, Miguel. Get Annual Plans at a discount when you buy 2 or more! can be happy with such simple things. This activity, which encourages critical thinking and analysis, can be assigned individually or to small work groups. You may cancel your subscription on your Subscription and Billing page or contact Customer Support at custserv@bn.com. Major Theme This story shows how, despite set backs, people can overcome anything. a zigzag pattern, which she says is like going up a mountain and down "I have brought you proof that things will get better." In the early decades of the 20th century there was great discontent among Mexicans over the distribution of land and wealth as well as over participation in Mexican politics. Immigration officers are finding them and deporting them back to Mexico, even if they are American citizens, because they are causing trouble for the government. How far do they travel and how many days does the trip take? This historical background lends depth and richness to the plot and setting as well as to the characters. Esperanzas family returns home after the storm covered in dust and dirt, and her mother cannot stop coughing. Esperanza visits her mother every weekend, but Mama is still sick and depressed. Women form the backbone of story of the novel's survival, renewal, compassion, and strength. She is sheltered from the harder realities of those who work on her father's ranch, El Rancho de las Rosas. The online resources for the PBS documentary "Surviving the Dustbowl"provides information about The Great Depression and the migration of the Okies as well as a timeline of related historical events.