Examine Laura Esquivel’s exploration of feminism in Like Water for Chocolate. How does feminism come into conflict with the traditions of the patriarchal Latin American culture she depicts? How do women participate in or resist this culture in the novel?

How does the author portray motherhood? Consider Mama Elena and Rosaura as well as Tita’s relationships with Nacha, Morning Light, Chencha, and Gertrudis. How does Tita become a mother despite never bearing any children of her own?

Compare and contrast Pedro and Dr. John Brown. Who do you think is the better match for Tita, and why?