María · Chapter
XXI explained
Efraín returns from the jaguar hunt with Braulio, who tricks Juan Ángel into carrying the jaguar's head home.
What happens
Efraín returns from the jaguar hunt with Braulio, who tricks Juan Ángel into carrying the jaguar's head home. Efraín avoids the family gathering, but the head is revealed at dinner, causing a stir. Carlos and his father have arrived, and Efraín grapples with the impending trial of Carlos's courtship of María. Carlos later examines Efraín's books, revealing his disdain for serious study.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Rivalry
The camaraderie between Efraín and Braulio contrasts with the unspoken rivalry with Carlos over María.
Family and Duty
Efraín's obligation to his family and his internal conflict about María's potential engagement to Carlos.
Characters to notice
- Efraín
Returns from the hunt, avoids the family, and feels the pressure of Carlos's presence.
- Braulio
Accompanies Efraín home and cleverly sends the jaguar's head as a trophy.
- Juan Ángel
Cowardly but loyal, he is frightened by the jaguar's head and seeks forgiveness.
- Carlos Martinez Silva
Arrives with his father, examines Efraín's books, and shows disdain for serious study.
- María
Present at the dinner, she is reassured by Efraín's mother about his safety.
- Luisa
Efraín's mother, who comforts him and reassures María.
Key passages
“I came, my master—I was going—but don’t punish me, your honor—and I won’t be afraid again.”
Juan Ángel apologizes for his earlier fear and promises to be braver.
Shows Juan Ángel's cowardice and desire for forgiveness.
“Carlos in the house! I thought; this is the trying time of which my father spoke.”
Efraín realizes that Carlos's arrival marks the difficult moment his father warned about.
Highlights Efraín's anxiety about Carlos courting María.
“What a fearful fellow!”
Carlos exclaims in awe at the size of the jaguar's head.
Reveals Carlos's reaction to the trophy and his competitive nature.