DECIPHERING THE MYSTERIES OF THE CHICANO CULTURE IN RUDOLFO ANAYA’S BLESS ME, ULTIMA
DECIPHERING THE MYSTERIES OF THE CHICANO CULTURE IN RUDOLFO ANAYA’S BLESS ME, ULTIMA

Summary/Abstract: The present paper aims at deciphering the mysteries of the Chicano culture, full of beauty and richness, as it is presented by Rudolfo Anaya in his novel entitled Bless me, Ultima. The emphasis is laid upon the multifarious cultural aspects of the Chicano context, such as: nature, family, religion, the past, the quest for identity as well as Anaya’s dichotomy: good vs evil or sacred vs profane. The novel epitomizes the perfect example of a mentor, Ultima, who guides Antonio in life helping him to discover himself. Ultima is a curandera, the elderly folk healer, she cures with herbs and magic. She personifies goodness, her sympathy for people helping her to overcome all obstacles. Ultima shows Antonio the right path in life helping him to find the key to the magical secrets of the Chicano past. Chicano folklore is the most important feature of the Mexican Americans highlighting the diverse aspects of their lives including ethnicity, heritage, traditions, customs, rituals and beliefs.

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