I, Rigoberta Menchu (Siete)

1. Menchu begins Chapter 19 with a quotation from her father, "You are independent, you must do what you want to, as long as you do it for our people." What do you make of this statement? Why do you think he included, "as long as you do it for our people?"

Menchu's father is letting her know that she is free do go out and live. That she doesn't have to stay in her community any longer. She can do what she believes is right. I think he added in this last part because he wants to make sure she follows the right path and continues to think of her people when deciding on things to do.

2. Take some time and re-read the last paragraph of Chapter 19. Breathe those words in. Why are they monumental?

The words said in this paragraph show just how amazing Rigoberta Menchu truly is. She trapped an army man who, just a few hours ago, was ready to kill her and her people. She asked why a fellow indian was willing to work for the rich and attack his own people and he answered explaining the sitiuation him and many other army men were in. This increased Rigoberta's understanding of what was really going on and gave her motivation for change.

3. Chapter 20 describes a horrifying scene about the woman in the house. What is your reaction to this? Does there seem to be any humanity? Why do you think that is?

I cant believe someone would do something so harsh simply because she wouldn't have an affair with him. I dont understand how the land owners son could do this, were people back then so much worse then they are now? The bodyguard has little to blame. He had too. Chances are if he didn't kill the girl, he would be killed, and the girl would soon follow. He showed his reason by saving the child. If he was a ruthless killer, he wouldv'e just killed them both.

4. Chapter 21 focuses on Rigoberta learning Spanish. Why is this important both cultually and socially?

Rigoberta learning Spanish is extremely important when it comes to her community. The middle man who is easily paid off will no longer be needed. She will be able to communicate with government officials who are only able to speak Spanish. Rigoberta will help the people and finally be a voice for the indigenous communities around Guatemala.

5. Chapter 22 spends some time talking about General Kjell's policies with land division. What was the generals reaction to these policies? Why were they good or bad?

Kjells land division policies were aweful. I think in a way it was an act meant to help the people and weaken the large businesses, but he didn't fully understand how communities worked. The land divisions didn't supply to people with what they needed for basic living. They were unable to farm, cut wood, or many other traditional things needed. The only way the people were able to get outside products was from paying the government very high for very little.