Although this novel examines the very interesting topics of gender, class, race, and the social structure they form in everday life in the United States during the mid 1800's, the way in which this particular work is written I find quite pedestrian. The author uses an extensively descriptive style, and at times trails off onto subjects which seem unrelated to the ideas and arguments she is trying to present to the reader. Evidently the themes presented include the effects of the American Civil War on middle-class 18th century Americans and race as a key factor in society.
The interesting part of the underlying theme of the novel, is the fact that in the big picture, we are presented with a selection of diverse New Englad families whom are being affected by a war fought over the abolishment of slavery and racism. Meanwhile the author focuses on one of these families, and almost compares it to their personal situation on a smaller scale using Lola's character. In her writing Maria Ruiz de Burton flaunts these democratic Americans fighting to abolish slavery - and racism - while they in a sense fight their own personal battle with the race of this Mexican girl; more specifically Mrs. Norval.
While reading the first half of the novel, we lightly witness the integration of Lola into this family, and her effects. Mrs. Norval, evidently racist and true upholder of Puritan morality, forms a relationship with Mr. Hackwell clearly represents her low self esteem and a perfect example of a woman of that time who truly did need the direction of a man. It is easy to witness her stupidity as she lets him take advantage of her obliviousness and utter trust for men. Overall, Ruiz's use of irony and satire creates an interesting novel, although the subjects it discusses do not reach their galvanizing potential.
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"Meanwhile the author focuses on one of these families, and almost compares it to their personal situation on a smaller scale using Lola's character. In her writing Maria Ruiz de Burton flaunts these democratic Americans fighting to abolish slavery - and racism - while they in a sense fight their own personal battle with the race of this Mexican girl; more specifically Mrs. Norval."
Indeed. This is a book full of ironies, and perhaps the most obvious one is that these respectable New Englanders (most notably Mrs. Norval) are ardent abolitionists, engaged in a war to end slavery, and yet at home express consistently racist attitudes.
I agree with you, and I find Mrs. Norval's "puritan" values and morality quite interesting and hypocritical. She is against Lola's mother's dying wishes of Lola being raised Roman Catholic, but if on her own death bed, it would be completely acceptable to request her children being raised Protestant. I was raised Roman Catholic by birth, and I have always found it peculiar that during mass the priest or deacon would preach about the importance in accepting others, regardless of their creed, gender, or race. For example…
Galatians 3:28 (New International Version)
28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
1 Samuel 16:7 (New International Version)
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
However, when it came time to be confirmed a Catholic, the message being taught to the once-pubescent teens was that Catholics were superior to any other religion, people who were not heterosexual were bad, and that God would be angry with you if you did not attend church each Sunday. Needless to say, decided not to be confirmed for several reasons.
In my (rather limited) knowledge about religions, a majority (if not all) have the underlying message that a person should not judge others. But yet, in my experience, some of the most religious people I’ve met have been the most judgmental on those who differed from them.
If you haven't already, I highly suggest you watch the documentary "Jesus Camp", which concerns extreme Evangelicals in the US (I think its on google video). Great blog!
-Deanna
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