# XXVIII explained — María

> Chapter companion for María by Jorge Isaacs.

## What happens

Efraín and his father work diligently in the study, while María waits for Efraín in the evening. They discuss Carlos's visit and Efraín's confession to him, with María showing concern for their friendship. The chapter ends with María leaving, and Efraín treasuring her handkerchief.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

María's concern for Efraín's friendship with Carlos and her desire for Efraín to keep that friendship, even at her own expense, reflects the theme of love and sacrifice.

## Character check-ins

### Efraín

Works with his father, converses with María about Carlos, and treasures her handkerchief.

### María

Waits for Efraín in the evening, asks about his conversation with Carlos, and shows concern for their friendship.

### Carlos Martinez Silva

Mentioned in conversation; Efraín told him everything about his relationship with María.

### Emma

Present in the parlor, falling asleep during the evening.

### Luisa

Present in the parlor, reading or listening to the Imitation.

## Key lines

> María’s smiles made me sweet promises for the hour of rest; in their strength I could go cheerfully to the most wearisome labor.

María's smiles gave Efraín the strength to endure the tedious work.

_Shows María's influence on Efraín's mood and motivation._

> María did not understand that this scented handkerchief was my treasure for a whole night.

María was unaware that her handkerchief was a precious keepsake for Efraín.

_Highlights Efraín's deep affection for María._

## Links

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