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Literary elements are a crucial part to effectively writing any piece of literature. In the novel Bless Me, Ultima, the author Rudolf Anaya incorporates writing essentials such as a unique plot structure, a strong theme, and an intricate characterization technique. The story centers on the main character Tony, as he explicates the narrative of when he was a boy nearly "coming of age." Not only does it focus on Tony progressing to manhood, but also on his loss of faith. The plot structure that was established in Anaya's novel, was very rare and fascinating in many ways.
Varying incidents distributed within the whole storyline gave the novel different dispositions. One of the most important events was when Ultima showed the power of her natural magic by accomplishing feats that not even the Catholic Church could do. Another was when the golden carp revealed itself to Tony for the first time, and yet another was when close friends such as Narisco and Florence were killed. Different conflicts helped to shape the story, such as Narisco against Tenorio, Tony against the raging snowstorm that tried to impede his process of warning Ultima, and especially Tony's inner conflict of deciding what religion to believe. Not only were these episodes consequential, but the literary elements within them were remarkable. Foreshadowing instituted inside Tony's dream sequences helped create the sense of mysterious enchantment in his character.
In fact, Tony's dreams worked in the opposite manner as well, flashing back to when he was just born. These occurrences emerged to be some of the most significant subplots of the book, exposing imperative ideas such as the great healing power of Ultima. They helped to weave the complicated web of mystery within the characters, and forever altered the outcome of the tale. The most eminent theme in the story was Tony's loss of faith. His doubt simply started when he witnessed Lupidos death, and questioned his ability to become a priest since he could not save Lupidos soul. The death polluted the town, just like how its blood tainted the river.
Tony bore the sin on his shoulders, and stated "How would I ever wash away the stain of blood." This great burden discouraged him, because he didnt see why the innocent would have to suffer. When the golden carp came into his life, Tony further questioned his Catholic religion and the God he was brought up with. He started to wonder whether the carp was a better god, more caring and forgiving. Finally, after the death of Florence, Tony gave up religion altogether. Florence died in the water, the home of the carp, and Tony believed that if the carp truly was a good god, it would have saved him. Tony realized that "The old gods are dying", and religion comes and goes.
Whether pagan or Catholic, the religions both betrayed him, and Tony recognized that the only belief that hadnt betrayed him was Ultima's magic. Ultima never denied Tony and his family the request of life, forgiveness, or damnation. The most astounding character of the novel was most certainly Ultima. Viewed through Tony's eyes, she was a teacher, and the most understanding person he was acquainted with.
She was known as a witch to many, but Tony saw her almost like a second mother, and a healer. She showed him the true spirit of nature, right down to the souls of plants. Destiny was one of her strong beliefs, and Tony learned from her that it is not something to meddle with. When she died in the end, the tragedy greatly affected Tony, but also symbolized a new beginning for him. It illustrated Tony's "coming of age", and his lack of need for her anymore. He had learned what he needed to know, and was ready to become a man.
As represented in Bless Me, Ultima, one must choose their own religion and destiny. Anaya established a great number of literary elements in his novel such as foreshadowing, characterization, and conflicts to support his characters feelings and decisions. Through these elements, Tony's profound choice for religion and destiny was revealed.
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Research essay sample on Coming Of Age Literary Elements
