# XLVII explained — María

> Chapter companion for María by Jorge Isaacs.

## What happens

On the night of the twenty-ninth, Efraín takes leave of his family and María, then lies awake until the dreaded hour of departure. He sleeps fitfully, haunted by María's sobs and memories. At dawn, he prepares to leave, comforted by the faithful Juan Ángel. He bids farewell to his mother and Emma, then finds María in the oratory, where she faints in grief as he departs.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

Efraín and María's parting is marked by profound emotional sacrifice, as they must separate despite their deep love.

### Family and Duty

Efraín's departure is a duty to his family and education, even as it tears him from loved ones.

## Character check-ins

### Efraín

The protagonist, preparing to depart, struggles with sorrow and sleeplessness.

### María

Grieves in the oratory, fainting as Efraín leaves.

### Juan Ángel

Faithful servant who saddles Efraín's horse and weeps at his departure.

### Emma

Points Efraín to the oratory where María waits.

## Key lines

> The moment had come for me to summon all my strength.

Efraín realizes he must gather all his courage to face the farewell.

_Highlights his internal struggle._

> Until then my heart had scarcely known what sorrow was.

Efraín had never felt such deep sorrow before this moment.

_Emphasizes the intensity of the parting._

## Links

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