# XLII explained — María

> Chapter companion for María by Jorge Isaacs.

## What happens

Efraín accompanies his father on a farewell visit to Don Jerónimo's farm, where he spends time with Carlos, who expresses his boredom and longing for Bogotá. On the way back, Efraín meets Custodio, who shares his worries about his daughter Salomé's possible romantic involvement with Tiburcio and Justiniano, and the economic hardships of the valley.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Slavery

Carlos's complaints about his father's peasant ways and his aunts' pride, along with Custodio's economic hardships, illustrate class tensions and the reliance on slave labor.

### Friendship and Rivalry

The bond between Efraín and Carlos is evident in their candid conversation, while Custodio's worries about Salomé's suitors introduce a note of rivalry and concern.

## Character check-ins

### Efraín

Accompanies his father on a farewell visit, spends time with Carlos, and later converses with Custodio about local affairs.

### Carlos Martinez Silva

Receives Efraín at Don Jerónimo's farm, expresses his boredom and desire to marry Matilde, and discusses his plans for the future.

### Custodio

Meets Efraín on the road and shares his concerns about his daughter Salomé's possible romance with Tiburcio and Justiniano, as well as his economic troubles.

### Salome

Mentioned by Custodio as being hardworking but now a puzzle to him due to her possible romantic interest in Justiniano.

## Key lines

> Why, make yourself love her forever; give her all the luxuries and amusements you can⁠—in short, you are rich, and she will inspire you to work.

Efraín suggests that Carlos should marry Matilde and provide her with comforts, believing her presence will motivate him to work.

_Efraín encourages Carlos to consider marriage as a solution to his boredom._

> I am boring myself atrociously.

Carlos confesses that he is extremely bored with his life on the farm.

_Carlos expresses his dissatisfaction with rural life._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mar_a_se/chapters/xlii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mar_a_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mar_a_se/chapters