81 pages 2 hours read

Rudolfo Anaya

Bless Me, Ultima

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1972

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Introduction

Teacher Introduction

Bless Me, Ultima

  • Genre: Fiction; Chicano Literature; Coming-of-Age
  • Originally Published: 1972
  • Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 840L; Grades 9-12
  • Structure/Length: 22 chapters; approximately 262 pages; approximately 11 hours and 12 minutes on audiobook
  • Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story follows the protagonist Antonio Márez, a young boy growing up in New Mexico during World War II. His spiritual guide, Ultima, helps him navigate the complexities of his diverse cultural heritage and his journey toward self-discovery. The central conflict revolves around Antonio's struggles with faith, identity, and understanding the moral ambiguities of life.
  • Potential Sensitivity Issues: Violence; death; elements of witchcraft; discussions of religion and morality; mild language

Rudolfo Anaya, Author

  • Bio: Born 1937; died 2020; prominent Chicano author; known for his contributions to Chicano literature; considered the “godfather” of Chicano literature; taught English and creative writing at the University of New Mexico; recipient of the National Humanities Medal
  • Other Works: Heart of Aztlan (1976); Tortuga (1979); Alburquerque (1992); Rio Grande Fall (1996)
  • Awards: Premio Quinto Sol national Chicano literary award (1972)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

  • Multiplicity Within Chicanx Identity
  • Innocence Versus the Power of Understanding
  • Masculine and Feminine Influences on Manhood

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

  • Deepen understanding of how the Chicano Movement and the landscapes and folkways of the American Southwest impact Chicano literature.

Related Titles

By Rudolfo Anaya

Study Guide

logo

Take the Tortillas Out of Your Poetry

Rudolfo Anaya

Take the Tortillas Out of Your Poetry

Rudolfo Anaya