I, Rigoberta Menchu (ocho)

1.      In chapter 23, Menchu writes, “Something I want to tell you, is that I had a friend. He was the man who taught me Spanish. He was a ladino, a teacher, who worked with the CUC. He taught me Spanish and helped me with many things.” She continues, “He taught me to think more clearly about some of my ideas which were wrong, like saying all ladinos are bad.” Why is this revelation so important? What does it say about race issues specifically?

I believe very strongly in being tolerant towards others from all backgrounds. While reading the earlier chapters I kept seeing how Menchu and her family hated all of the Spaniards and ladinos. I know that when a certain group causes you pain it could be hard to forgive them but it is even harder to know that it is not everyone in that group that is bad. I think it was extremely important for Rigoberta to learn that all ladinos aren’t bad so that she can make close connections to the poor ladinos that are in the CUC. These connections I think will help bring the peasants together and make them stronger.        

2.      Chapter 24’s title alone gives you chicken skin: “The Torture and Death of Her Little Brother Burnt Alive in Front of Members of Their Families and the Community.” What is your reaction to this chapter? Be specific. Be honest.

Just reading the chapter title made me not want to read the chapter. I could never in a million years ever imagine being tortured, then on top of that being burned to death in front of my community and my family. It seems like it is just a horror movie that can’t happen in real life. After reading the chapter I felt extremely sad. The horrors I read about seem unrealistic. I tried to imagine if it was my sister or best friend and I literally started to tear up. I can’t imagine a family going through this, but then again I can’t imagine someone doing this to another person. This chapter was defiantly the saddest thing I have ever read because it actually happened.   

3.      Menchu begins chapter 25 with another quote from her father: “My father said: ‘Some have to give their blood and some have to give their strength; so while we can, we’ll give our strength.” What type of character does Menchu’s father exhibit?

Menchu’s father seems to really represent the leader quality he was elected for. He is a strong, brave man who cares greatly about his family and his people. He constantly worked his hardest to provide for his family and help his people.

4.      After reading chapter 26, use your favorite wisdom or proverb from Rigoberta’s father and explain its meaning to you.

My favorite piece of wisdom Menchu’s father said in chapter 26 is ‘We don’t do this so that our neighbors can say, “What good people they are!” We do it for our ancestors.’ I have a similar philosophy about service but I do it for myself and those who need my help. I think that what he said is a very important lesson for young people ad everyone for that matter to learn. I am amazed at how dedicated they are to continuing with their ancestor’s traditions and basing their good doings on the respect of their elders.